Composer

:

Joseph Martin Kraus

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Incidental Music

Average_duration

:

65:30

Movement_count

:

29

Movement ....

Amphitryon is a three-act opera composed by Joseph Martin Kraus. It was first performed on 5 November 1776 at the Royal Opera in Stockholm, Sweden. The libretto was written by Johan Henric Kellgren, a Swedish poet and playwright. The opera is based on the ancient Greek myth of Amphitryon, a Theban general who returns home from war to find that his wife, Alcmene, has been impregnated by the god Jupiter, who has taken on the form of Amphitryon. The story is a classic tale of mistaken identity, jealousy, and divine intervention. The opera is divided into three acts, each with its own set of musical movements. The first act begins with an overture, followed by a chorus of Thebans welcoming Amphitryon home. The first aria is sung by Amphitryon, expressing his joy at being reunited with his wife. The act ends with a duet between Amphitryon and Alcmene, in which they express their love for each other. The second act opens with a chorus of Jupiter's attendants, followed by an aria sung by Jupiter himself, in which he boasts of his power and his conquest of Alcmene. The act also includes a duet between Jupiter and Mercury, in which they plot to deceive Amphitryon. The act ends with a trio between Amphitryon, Alcmene, and Jupiter, in which Amphitryon expresses his confusion and jealousy. The third act begins with a chorus of Thebans, followed by an aria sung by Amphitryon, in which he laments his situation. The act also includes a duet between Alcmene and her servant, in which they express their fear and confusion. The climax of the opera is a quartet between Amphitryon, Alcmene, Jupiter, and Mercury, in which the truth is finally revealed and the characters are reconciled. Kraus's music for Amphitryon is characterized by its dramatic intensity, expressive melodies, and sophisticated harmonies. The opera is notable for its use of recitative, which Kraus employs to great effect in conveying the emotional turmoil of the characters. The vocal writing is demanding, requiring singers with both technical skill and dramatic sensitivity. Overall, Amphitryon is a masterful work of opera seria, showcasing Kraus's talent for musical drama and his ability to bring ancient myths to life on the operatic stage.

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