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"Don Giovanni," K. 527, is an opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, with a libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte. Here are some interesting facts about this masterpiece:
Premiere: "Don Giovanni" had its premiere in Prague on October 29, 1787. The Vienna premiere followed later on May 7, 1788.
Genre: It is an opera buffa, which is a comedic opera. However, "Don Giovanni" also incorporates elements of drama and supernatural elements, making it a dramma giocoso.
Plot: The opera tells the story of Don Giovanni, a libertine and seducer, and his eventual downfall. It's a complex tale involving love, betrayal, and the consequences of one's actions.
Catalog Aria: One of the famous pieces from "Don Giovanni" is the Catalog Aria, also known as "Madamina, il catalogo è questo." In this aria, Leporello, Don Giovanni's servant, lists the various women Don Giovanni has seduced, showcasing the character's promiscuity.
Influence on Later Works: "Don Giovanni" has had a significant impact on later composers. Richard Wagner praised it for its dramatic power, and its influence can be seen in various operatic works that followed.
Mozart's Death: Mozart composed "Don Giovanni" near the end of his life. He died just a few months after its premiere at the age of 35.
Overture: The opera opens with a powerful and well-known overture that sets the tone for the drama that will unfold. The overture is often performed separately in concert settings.
"Don Giovanni" is celebrated for its brilliant music, engaging storyline, and complex characters, making it one of Mozart's most enduring and admired works in the world of opera.