Rossini's opera includes a 'Terzettone' (big fat trio), an unusually extended piece that is interrupted by cannon fire and features a scene change within a single number.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Rossini chose to place a love affair between Anna and Maometto at the center of his opera, transforming the tragedy of a clash of civilizations into a drama about doomed love.
Recording & Production
This recording was made in July 2017 at the Trinkhalle, Bad Wildbad, Germany, for the XXIX ROSSINI IN WILDBAD Festival.
Historical Context
The premiere of Maometto II occurred at the end of an eventful year in Naples, which saw the outbreak of a liberal uprising against the Bourbon monarchy.
Interpretation
This recording presents the original Naples version of Maometto II, which is a movingly tragic drama, unlike the more conventional Venice version with a happy ending.
Composition History
Rossini's opera, Maometto II, premiered on December 3, 1820, at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples with a stellar cast.
Compositional Technique
Maometto II is innovative, beginning with an Introduzione that deviates considerably from established operatic canons and features a symmetrical structure.
