Composer

:

Johann Christian Bach

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1772

Publication Date

:

1987

First Performance

:

Nov 5, 1772

"Temistocle" is an opera seria in three acts composed by Johann Christian Bach. The libretto was written by Pietro Metastasio and was first performed in London in 1765. The opera tells the story of the Athenian general Temistocle, who is torn between his love for his country and his love for his daughter, Clelia. Act I begins with Temistocle returning to Athens after a successful military campaign. He is greeted as a hero, but his happiness is short-lived when he learns that his daughter Clelia has been kidnapped by the Persians. Temistocle vows to rescue her, but he is torn between his duty to his country and his love for his daughter. In Act II, Temistocle is captured by the Persians and brought before their king, Artaserse. Artaserse offers to release Temistocle if he will betray Athens and join the Persian army. Temistocle refuses and is sentenced to death. Meanwhile, Clelia is being held captive by the Persian general, Oronte, who has fallen in love with her. Clelia rejects his advances and is also sentenced to death. Act III sees Temistocle and Clelia reunited, but their happiness is short-lived when they learn that Athens has been defeated by the Persians. Temistocle is torn between his love for his country and his love for his daughter, but ultimately decides to sacrifice himself for the good of Athens. He convinces Artaserse to spare the lives of the Athenians and to allow them to return to their city. "Temistocle" is characterized by its beautiful melodies and dramatic arias. The opera is notable for its use of the da capo aria form, which was popular in the opera seria genre. The music is elegant and refined, with a focus on vocal virtuosity. The opera was well-received at its premiere and was praised for its emotional depth and musical beauty. Overall, "Temistocle" is a powerful opera that explores themes of love, duty, and sacrifice. It is a testament to Johann Christian Bach's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both beautiful and emotionally resonant.

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