Mayr's individual style combines the refined orchestral writing of Viennese Classicism with the melodic Italianità of Neapolitan composers.
Performer Biography
Franz Hauk, the conductor and harpsichordist for this album, founded the Simon Mayr Chorus in 2003 and has made over 20 recordings for the Naxos label as Concertmaster of the Simon Mayr Ensemble and Concerto de Bassus.
Recording & Production
This recording of Le due duchesse is based on a critical edition prepared by Franz Hauk, Manfred Hößl, and Diemut Hauk, using both a Bergamo manuscript and Mayr's autograph score.
Critical Reception
At its premiere, Le due duchesse received generous applause for both the cast and the composer, with critics highlighting the work's originality and effectiveness.
Composition History
Le due duchesse premiered on November 7, 1814, at La Scala in Milan, and had only one revival in 1819 at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples.
Composition History
Johann Simon Mayr's opera Le due duchesse is based on a French melodrama from 1811 by Louis-Charles Caigniez, titled Edgar, ou La Chasse aux loups.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Felice Romani, the librettist for Le due duchesse, was chosen for his talent in writing sonorous verse and taut drama, and his familiarity with both classical and 'exotic' material.
