Composer

:

Carl Maria von Weber

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1817 - 1821

Publication Date

:

1821

First Performance

:

Jun 18, 1821

Average_duration

:

127:05

Movement_count

:

19

Movement ....

Der Freischütz is an opera composed by Carl Maria von Weber in 1821. The plot revolves around a young forester named Max who is in love with Agathe, the daughter of the head forester. In order to win her hand in marriage, Max must prove himself as the best marksman in a shooting contest. However, he is plagued by doubts and fears, and turns to a mysterious figure named Kaspar for help. Kaspar, who is in league with the devil, gives Max magic bullets that will ensure his victory in the contest, but at a terrible cost. The opera premiered on June 18, 1821, at the Schauspielhaus in Berlin. It was an immediate success, and quickly became one of the most popular operas of the 19th century. The music is characterized by its use of German folk melodies and its dramatic orchestration, which includes the use of horns, clarinets, and other instruments to create a haunting, atmospheric sound. The opera is divided into three acts, each of which is marked by a different musical movement. The first act is characterized by its lively, folk-inspired music, which sets the scene for the shooting contest and introduces the main characters. The second act is more introspective, with Max struggling with his doubts and fears, and Kaspar summoning the devil to help him win the contest. The third act is the most dramatic, with Max realizing the terrible cost of his victory and Agathe facing a terrifying ordeal. One of the most notable characteristics of Der Freischütz is its use of supernatural elements. The devil and his minions play a prominent role in the opera, and the magic bullets that Kaspar gives to Max are a key plot point. The opera also explores themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil. Overall, Der Freischütz is a masterpiece of German Romantic opera, and remains a beloved work to this day. Its haunting melodies and dramatic storyline continue to captivate audiences around the world.

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