Composer

:

Francesco Gasparini

Genre

:

Opera

Average_duration

:

03:24:27

Il Bajazet is an opera seria in three acts composed by Francesco Gasparini. The opera was first performed in Venice in 1719. The libretto was written by Agostino Piovene and is based on the story of Tamerlano and Bajazet from the 16th-century play Tamerlano by Nicolas Pradon. The plot of Il Bajazet revolves around the conflict between the Ottoman Sultan Bajazet and the Mongol conqueror Tamerlano. Bajazet has been captured by Tamerlano and is being held prisoner. Tamerlano is in love with Bajazet's daughter, Asteria, and wants to marry her. However, Asteria is in love with Andronico, a prince who is also being held captive by Tamerlano. Bajazet is torn between his desire for revenge against Tamerlano and his love for his daughter. The opera is characterized by its use of recitative and aria, which were typical of the opera seria genre. The music is highly expressive and dramatic, with a focus on the emotions of the characters. The vocal writing is virtuosic, with elaborate ornamentation and runs. Il Bajazet was well-received at its premiere and was performed throughout Italy in the 18th century. However, it fell out of favor in the 19th century and was rarely performed until the 20th century. Today, it is considered one of Gasparini's most important works and is occasionally performed in concert or in staged productions.

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