Introduction to the Resource Guide
This official resource guide provides an in-depth exploration of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's celebrated opera, Le Nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro). It is designed for opera enthusiasts, students, and performers seeking a deeper understanding of this timeless work. The guide compiles the complete libretto, extensive background information on its creation and historical context, and a collection of photographs from various Metropolitan Opera productions.
Originally premiered in 1786, Le Nozze di Figaro continues to captivate audiences with its intricate plot, memorable characters, and sublime music. This book serves as an essential companion to appreciate the nuances of Lorenzo Da Ponte's libretto and Mozart's musical genius.
Content Overview
The guide is structured into several key components to offer a holistic view of Le Nozze di Figaro:
- The Complete Libretto: The full text of the opera in its original Italian, accompanied by a precise English translation. This section allows readers to follow the narrative and appreciate Da Ponte's poetic language.
- Historical and Artistic Background: Detailed essays covering the opera's genesis, its relationship to Beaumarchais's controversial play, the social and political climate of 18th-century Europe, and critical analyses of its musical and dramatic elements.
- Production Photography: A visual journey through various Metropolitan Opera productions of Le Nozze di Figaro, showcasing different interpretations of characters, costumes, and stage designs over the years.
Image: Front cover of the resource guide, featuring the title "The Metropolitan Opera Presents Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Le Nozze di Figaro" and an image of a male performer in historical attire, seated.
Using This Resource Guide
This guide is designed for flexible use, whether you are preparing to attend a performance, studying the opera, or simply exploring its rich history:
- For Performance Preparation: Read the libretto in advance to familiarize yourself with the plot and character interactions. The dual-language format is ideal for understanding the original text while grasping the narrative flow.
- For Academic Study: Utilize the background sections for essays and research. The historical context and critical insights provide a solid foundation for deeper analysis.
- For General Appreciation: Browse the photographic sections to visualize different staging approaches and costume designs. The detailed descriptions enhance understanding of the opera's visual presentation.
About Le Nozze di Figaro
Le Nozze di Figaro, or The Marriage of Figaro, is an opera buffa (comic opera) in four acts composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart to an Italian libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte. It premiered at the Burgtheater in Vienna on May 1, 1786.
The opera is a continuation of the story from Pierre Beaumarchais's 1778 play La Folle Journée, ou Le Mariage de Figaro. It depicts a "day of madness" in the Almaviva household, where servants Figaro and Susanna attempt to marry, despite the efforts of their employer, Count Almaviva, to seduce Susanna. The plot involves mistaken identities, clever disguises, and a series of comedic and dramatic confrontations that ultimately lead to reconciliation and joy.
About the Creators
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Composer)
Born in Salzburg, Austria, in 1756, Mozart is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers in the history of Western music. His vast output includes operas, symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. Le Nozze di Figaro is one of his most beloved and frequently performed operas, showcasing his unparalleled melodic invention and dramatic insight.
Lorenzo Da Ponte (Librettist)
An Italian opera librettist and poet, Lorenzo Da Ponte (1749–1838) is best known for his collaborations with Mozart. Besides Le Nozze di Figaro, he also wrote the libretti for Don Giovanni and Così fan tutte. Da Ponte's libretti are celebrated for their wit, dramatic structure, and psychological depth, perfectly complementing Mozart's music.
Book Specifications
| Publisher: | Amadeus |
| Publication Date: | August 1, 2014 |
| Language: | English |
| Print Length: | 296 pages |
| ISBN-10: | 1574674617 |
| ISBN-13: | 978-1574674613 |
| Item Weight: | 1.3 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 6.05 x 0.7 x 8.95 inches |
Publisher Information and Support
This resource guide is published by Amadeus. For inquiries regarding this publication or other works by Amadeus, please refer to their official website or contact information typically found within the book's initial pages or on the publisher's website.
For general information about The Metropolitan Opera and its productions, please visit their official website: www.metopera.org.
