Composer

:

Gioachino Rossini

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1823

Average_duration

:

197:13

Movement_count

:

43

Movement ....

Semiramide is an opera seria in two acts composed by Gioachino Rossini. The libretto was written by Gaetano Rossi, based on Voltaire's tragedy Semiramis. The opera was first performed at La Fenice in Venice on February 3, 1823. The plot of Semiramide revolves around the Babylonian queen Semiramide, who has been ruling the kingdom since the death of her husband, King Nino. She is in love with the young warrior Arsace, who is actually her son, but she does not know this. Arsace is in love with the princess Azema, who is betrothed to the prince Idreno. The high priest Oroe reveals to Semiramide that her son is still alive and that he is Arsace. Semiramide is shocked and decides to abdicate in favor of Arsace. However, the evil prince Assur, who is also in love with Semiramide, plots to kill Arsace and take the throne for himself. In the end, Assur is defeated, and Semiramide and Arsace are reunited. Semiramide is considered one of Rossini's greatest operas, with its complex plot, rich orchestration, and virtuosic vocal writing. The opera features a number of memorable arias, including Semiramide's "Bel raggio lusinghier" and Arsace's "Eccomi alfine in Babilonia." The music is characterized by Rossini's trademark bel canto style, with its emphasis on beautiful melodies, vocal agility, and expressive phrasing. The premiere of Semiramide was a great success, and the opera quickly became one of Rossini's most popular works. It was performed throughout Europe and America, and it remains a staple of the operatic repertoire to this day. The opera is divided into two acts, each with several scenes. The first act features a prologue, which sets the scene for the drama to come. The second act is more dramatic, with a number of thrilling confrontations and plot twists. Overall, Semiramide is a masterpiece of Italian opera, showcasing Rossini's genius for melody, drama, and vocal writing. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its place in the canon of great operatic works.

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