Composer

:

Giovanni Bononcini

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1720

'Astarto' is an opera seria in three acts composed by Giovanni Bononcini. The opera was composed in 1719 and premiered at the King's Theatre in London on 16 February 1720. The libretto was written by Paolo Antonio Rolli and is based on the story of Queen Semiramis of Assyria. The plot of 'Astarto' revolves around the love triangle between Queen Semiramis, her husband King Ninus, and the warrior Arsace. Semiramis is in love with Arsace, but he is in love with her daughter, Princess Mandane. Meanwhile, King Ninus is suspicious of Semiramis' loyalty and plots to have her killed. In the end, Semiramis is able to prove her loyalty and Arsace and Mandane are united. The opera is characterized by its use of recitative and aria, which were typical of the opera seria genre. The music is highly ornamented and features virtuosic vocal lines. The orchestration is relatively simple, with a small ensemble of strings, oboes, and bassoons. The first movement of the opera is a sinfonia, which sets the mood for the drama to come. The second movement is a recitative in which Semiramis expresses her love for Arsace. This is followed by an aria in which Arsace sings of his love for Mandane. The third movement is a duet between Semiramis and Arsace, in which they express their love for each other. The fourth movement is a recitative in which King Ninus expresses his suspicion of Semiramis. This is followed by an aria in which he plots her downfall. The fifth movement is a duet between Semiramis and Mandane, in which they express their love for each other. The final movement is a grand finale in which all the characters are united in celebration. Overall, 'Astarto' is a typical example of the opera seria genre, with its highly ornamented vocal lines and simple orchestration. The plot is typical of the genre as well, with its love triangle and political intrigue. The opera was well-received at its premiere and remained popular throughout the 18th century.

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