Composer

:

Jean-Baptiste Lully

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Publication Date

:

1677

First Performance

:

Jan 5, 1677

Movement_count

:

66

Movement ....

Isis is an opera composed by Jean-Baptiste Lully with a libretto by Philippe Quinault. It was first performed at the Théâtre du Palais-Royal in Paris on January 5, 1677. The opera is set in ancient Egypt and tells the story of the goddess Isis and her love for the mortal prince, Oronte. The plot of Isis revolves around the love triangle between Isis, Oronte, and the jealous queen, Amasis. Oronte is in love with the queen's daughter, Io, but Amasis forbids their marriage. In an attempt to win Io's hand, Oronte seeks the help of the goddess Isis. Isis falls in love with Oronte and uses her powers to help him win Io's hand. However, Amasis discovers their plot and seeks revenge on Isis. The opera is divided into five acts, each with its own set of musical movements. The first act introduces the characters and sets the stage for the drama to come. The second act features a series of dances and songs, including a duet between Oronte and Io. The third act is the climax of the opera, with a dramatic confrontation between Amasis and Isis. The fourth act features a series of dances and songs, including a solo by Isis. The final act resolves the plot, with Oronte and Io finally able to marry. One of the characteristics of Isis is its use of dance. Lully was known for his incorporation of dance into his operas, and Isis is no exception. The opera features a variety of dance styles, including minuets, sarabands, and chaconnes. The music is also notable for its use of French Baroque style, with its emphasis on ornamentation and elaborate melodies. Isis was a popular opera in its time and was performed frequently throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. It was also influential in the development of French opera, with its use of dance and emphasis on melody and ornamentation. Today, it is still occasionally performed and is considered a classic of the Baroque era.

More....