Composer

:

Nicola Porpora

Genre

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1738

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

"Carlo il calvo" is an opera seria in three acts composed by Nicola Porpora. The opera was first performed in Rome in 1738. The libretto was written by Pietro Metastasio, one of the most famous librettists of the time. The plot of "Carlo il calvo" revolves around the historical figure of Charles the Bald, King of the Franks, who ruled from 840 to 877. The opera takes place in the year 875, during a period of political turmoil in the Frankish Empire. Charles is facing a rebellion led by his own son, Louis the Stammerer, who is supported by the powerful Duke of Aquitaine, Ranieri. Charles is also dealing with a personal crisis, as he is torn between his love for his wife, Ermentrude, and his desire for a young noblewoman, Ermengarda. The first act of the opera sets the stage for the conflict between Charles and his son. Charles is advised by his loyal advisor, Adalgiso, to take a conciliatory approach towards Louis and Ranieri, but Charles is determined to crush the rebellion by force. Meanwhile, Ermengarda confesses her love for Charles, but he rebuffs her advances, telling her that he is already married. Ermentrude, who has overheard their conversation, confronts Charles and demands that he choose between her and Ermengarda. In the second act, the rebellion comes to a head as Charles and his army face off against Louis and Ranieri. The battle is fierce, but Charles emerges victorious. However, he is deeply troubled by the fact that he has had to fight his own son. Ermentrude, sensing his distress, offers him comfort and support. The final act of the opera sees Charles grappling with his conflicting emotions towards Ermentrude and Ermengarda. He ultimately decides to remain faithful to his wife and renounce his feelings for Ermengarda. The opera ends with Charles and Ermentrude reconciling and reaffirming their love for each other. "Carlo il calvo" is characterized by Porpora's virtuosic vocal writing and Metastasio's poetic libretto. The opera features arias, duets, and ensemble numbers that showcase the talents of the singers. The music is marked by Porpora's signature style, which combines lyricism with dramatic intensity. "Carlo il calvo" premiered to great acclaim in Rome in 1738 and was subsequently performed throughout Europe. The opera's popularity helped to establish Porpora as one of the leading composers of his time. Today, "Carlo il calvo" is considered a masterpiece of the opera seria genre and is still performed occasionally in concert and on stage.

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