Composer

:

Domenico Cimarosa

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1779

First Performance

:

Dec 28, 1778

Average_duration

:

116:21

"L'Italiana in Londra" is an opera buffa in two acts composed by Domenico Cimarosa. The opera was composed in 1778 and premiered at the King's Theatre in London on June 28, 1778. The libretto was written by Giuseppe Petrosellini. The plot of the opera revolves around the arrival of an Italian woman, Rosina, in London to find her husband, who has been missing for several years. She is accompanied by her maid, Fidalma. Meanwhile, the Duke of Albemarle is trying to arrange a marriage between his nephew, Milord Arespingh, and the wealthy Englishwoman, Clarina. However, Milord Arespingh is in love with Rosina and tries to win her over. Rosina, on the other hand, is still in love with her missing husband, who turns out to be Milord Arespingh's long-lost brother, who was presumed dead. The opera is known for its lively and humorous music, with many comic situations and misunderstandings. The characters are well-drawn and the music is full of catchy melodies and witty dialogue. The opera is also notable for its use of ensemble singing, with many of the arias and duets featuring multiple singers. The first movement of the opera is a lively overture, featuring a fast-paced allegro section followed by a slower and more lyrical andante. The second movement is a duet between Rosina and Fidalma, in which they express their excitement at being in London. The third movement is a comic aria sung by Milord Arespingh, in which he declares his love for Rosina. The fourth movement is a duet between Rosina and Milord Arespingh, in which they express their conflicting emotions. The fifth movement is a quartet, in which the characters express their confusion and frustration at the various misunderstandings that have occurred. Overall, "L'Italiana in Londra" is a delightful and entertaining opera, full of lively music and comic situations. It remains a popular work in the operatic repertoire to this day.

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