Composer

:

Marc-Antoine Charpentier

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1688

Average_duration

:

125:11

Movement_count

:

29

Movement ....

"David et Jonathas, H. 490" is an opera composed by Marc-Antoine Charpentier in 1688. The plot is based on the biblical story of the friendship between David, the future king of Israel, and Jonathas, the son of King Saul. The opera is divided into five acts and features a libretto by Père François de Paule Bretonneau. The opera premiered at the Collège Louis-le-Grand in Paris on March 28, 1688. It was performed by the Jesuits, who were known for their elaborate productions. The opera was well-received and became one of Charpentier's most popular works. The first movement of the opera introduces the main characters and sets the stage for the story. David, a young shepherd, is chosen by God to be the future king of Israel. He is brought to the court of King Saul, where he meets Jonathas, the king's son. The two become fast friends and swear to always be loyal to each other. The second movement focuses on the conflict between David and Saul. Saul becomes jealous of David's popularity and fears that he will try to take the throne. He orders David to be killed, but Jonathas warns him and helps him escape. The third movement takes place in the wilderness, where David and his followers are hiding from Saul's army. Jonathas comes to visit David and the two reaffirm their friendship. They sing a duet, "Inveni David," which is one of the most famous pieces from the opera. The fourth movement features a battle between Saul's army and David's followers. Jonathas is killed in the battle, and David mourns his friend's death. The final movement sees David become king of Israel and honor Jonathas's memory. "David et Jonathas, H. 490" is known for its beautiful music and intricate vocal harmonies. Charpentier was a master of Baroque music, and the opera features many of the hallmarks of the genre, including ornate melodies, complex counterpoint, and dramatic recitatives. Overall, "David et Jonathas, H. 490" is a powerful and moving opera that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice. It remains one of Charpentier's most enduring works and is still performed today by opera companies around the world.

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