Composer

:

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1771

Average_duration

:

157:58

Movement_count

:

27

Movement ....

Ascanio in Alba is an opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1771. The libretto was written by Giuseppe Parini and the opera was commissioned by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria to celebrate the wedding of her son, Archduke Ferdinand, to Maria Beatrice d'Este, the daughter of Duke Ercole III of Modena. The plot of the opera revolves around the mythical figure of Ascanio, the son of Aeneas, who is sent to Alba to marry the princess Silvia. However, the evil sorceress Venere is determined to prevent the marriage and uses her powers to create a series of obstacles for the young couple. With the help of the god Apollo, Ascanio is able to overcome these obstacles and marry Silvia, bringing peace and prosperity to the kingdom of Alba. The opera is divided into two acts and features a total of 18 musical numbers, including arias, duets, and choruses. The music is characterized by Mozart's signature style, with its elegant melodies, intricate harmonies, and virtuosic vocal writing. The score also features a number of instrumental interludes, including a sinfonia and a ballet. Ascanio in Alba premiered on October 17, 1771, at the Teatro Regio Ducal in Milan, Italy. The opera was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it helped to establish Mozart's reputation as a composer of opera. The success of Ascanio in Alba also paved the way for Mozart's later operatic masterpieces, such as The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, and The Magic Flute. Overall, Ascanio in Alba is a charming and delightful opera that showcases Mozart's prodigious talent as a composer. Its lively and engaging plot, combined with its beautiful music and colorful characters, make it a true gem of the operatic repertoire.

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