Composer

:

Antonin Dvorák

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

Mar 11, 1902 - Aug 23, 1903

Publication Date

:

1941

First Performance

:

Mar 25, 1904

Average_duration

:

151:43

Armida is an opera composed by Antonin Dvorák in 1891. The libretto was written by Jaroslav Vrchlický, based on the epic poem "Jerusalem Delivered" by Torquato Tasso. The opera premiered on June 25, 1892, at the National Theatre in Prague. The plot of Armida revolves around the sorceress Armida, who falls in love with the Christian knight Rinaldo. Armida is torn between her love for Rinaldo and her duty to her people, who are at war with the Christians. She uses her magical powers to try to seduce Rinaldo and distract him from the war, but ultimately fails. Rinaldo remains loyal to his cause and his love for the Christian warrior woman, Goffredo. Armida is left alone and heartbroken. The opera is divided into three acts and features a variety of musical styles, including arias, duets, and choruses. The music is characterized by Dvorák's use of folk melodies and rhythms, as well as his skillful orchestration. The first act opens with a chorus of Christian soldiers preparing for battle. Rinaldo enters and sings an aria about his love for Goffredo. Armida appears and sings a seductive aria, trying to lure Rinaldo away from the war. The act ends with a duet between Armida and Rinaldo, as she tries to convince him to stay with her. The second act takes place in Armida's enchanted garden, where she continues to try to seduce Rinaldo. The act features several arias and duets between Armida and Rinaldo, as well as a chorus of enchanted spirits. The act ends with Armida's realization that she cannot win Rinaldo's love. The third act takes place on the battlefield, where the Christians are victorious. Armida appears and sings a lament for her lost love. Rinaldo enters and sings a triumphant aria, celebrating the Christian victory. The opera ends with a chorus of Christian soldiers singing a hymn of praise. Overall, Armida is a powerful and emotional opera that explores themes of love, duty, and betrayal. Dvorák's use of folk melodies and rhythms gives the music a unique and memorable quality, while the libretto by Vrchlický provides a compelling and dramatic story. The opera remains a popular work in the repertoire of many opera companies around the world.

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