Composer

:

Henry Purcell

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Average_duration

:

1:34

"Olinda in the shades unseen, Z. 404" is a semi-opera composed by Henry Purcell in 1685. It was first performed at the Dorset Garden Theatre in London on June 2, 1685. The libretto was written by Nathaniel Lee, and the work was commissioned by the Duke of York. The semi-opera consists of a prologue and five acts, with a total of 38 musical numbers. The prologue features a chorus and several soloists, including a bass and a soprano. The first act introduces the main characters, including Olinda, a queen who has been imprisoned by her rival, the sorceress Alcina. The act also includes a number of dances, including a hornpipe and a sarabande. The second act features a series of duets and arias, including a haunting lament sung by Olinda. The third act includes a masque, in which the characters are transported to a magical island. The masque features a number of dances, including a jig and a minuet. The fourth act is the climax of the opera, in which Olinda is finally freed from her captivity. The act includes a number of dramatic recitatives and arias, including a powerful duet between Olinda and her lover, Prince Oroonoko. The final act features a series of celebratory dances, including a chaconne and a gavotte. "Olinda in the shades unseen, Z. 404" is notable for its rich and varied musical score, which includes a wide range of styles and influences. Purcell's use of dance music is particularly noteworthy, with each act featuring a different set of dances that reflect the mood and tone of the action. The opera also features a number of memorable arias and duets, including Olinda's lament and the duet between Olinda and Oroonoko. Overall, "Olinda in the shades unseen, Z. 404" is a masterful example of Purcell's skill as a composer of semi-operas. Its rich and varied musical score, combined with its compelling storyline and memorable characters, make it a true masterpiece of the Baroque era.

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