The opera's opening scene features a terrible storm with thunder, lightning, and strong winds, intended by the author to evoke the upheaval caused by Napoleon's troops in Italy.
Instruments
For this recording, some string and wind instruments were purchased that are exact copies of those used in the classical period.
Composition History
The composer, Paisiello, personally conducted the performance of La Daunia Felice, which was staged in the presence of the royal family and a limited elite audience.
Historical Context
The royal wedding for which this work was composed took place during a dramatic period for the Kingdom of Naples, between the peace of Paris and Campoformio, with the French Revolution looming.
Recording & Production
The Conservatorio Umberto Giordano undertook the recovery of the score, a non-autograph manuscript of 158 pages, and published its modern critical edition.
Composition History
Paisiello's La Daunia Felice was performed in Foggia on June 25, 1797, for the wedding of Prince Francesco, heir to the throne of Naples, and Archduchess Maria Clementina of Austria.
Recording & Production
This recording of La Daunia Felice is the world premiere recording of this theatrical feast.
