Antonio de Literes facts for kids
Antoni de Literes (born June 18, 1673, in Majorca – died January 18, 1747, in Madrid) was an important Spanish composer. He is best known for his zarzuelas. A zarzuela is a special kind of Spanish musical play. It mixes singing, dancing, and spoken parts.
Literes's plays used many musical styles. These included arias (songs for one singer), recitatives (parts that sound like talking set to music), and choruses (songs for a group of singers). They also had dance movements. His music often included instruments like guitars, lutes, and harpsichords.
In 1693, Literes became the Master of the Royal Chapel in Madrid. He played the bass viol. Soon, he was known as the greatest Spanish court composer of his time.
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What Are Zarzuelas?
Zarzuelas are a unique type of Spanish musical theater. They combine singing, dancing, and spoken dialogue. Think of them like a musical, but with a special Spanish flair and history. They were very popular in Spain during Literes's time.
Famous Zarzuelas by Literes
Antoni de Literes wrote many zarzuelas. Some of his works are still enjoyed today.
His Most Popular Works
His most famous work was Acis y Galatea (1708). This play was very popular in Madrid. It was performed often in the Spanish court and public theaters until at least 1774. After being forgotten for about 200 years, it was recorded on CD in 2003. People loved it!
Another important zarzuela by Literes is Júpiter y Sémele (1718). This play was also very successful. It was found as a handwritten copy in Évora and has also been recorded.
Literes also wrote Los elementos. This was an opera in the Italian style. Another work, Júpiter y Danae, has also been brought back to life.
List of Zarzuelas
Here are some of the zarzuelas attributed to Antoni de Literes:
- Júpiter y Yo, los cielos premian desdenes (1699)
- Júpiter y Danae (1700)
- Acis y Galatea (1708)
- Ceronis
- Con música y con amor (1709)
- Antes difunta que ajena (1711)
- Hasta lo insensible adora (1704)
- El estrago en la fineza, Júpiter y Semele (1718)
- Celos no guardan respeto (1723)
- Los elementos (around 1718)
Listening to Literes's Music
You can find recordings of Antoni de Literes's music. These recordings help us hear his amazing works today.
- 1998 – Los Elementos. Recorded by Al Ayre Español.
- 2001 – Acis y Galatea. Recorded by Al Ayre Español.
- 2003 – Júpiter y Semele o El estrago en la fineza. Recorded by Al Ayre Español.
- 2004 – Júpiter y Danae. Recorded by Capella de Ministrers.
See also
In Spanish: Antonio de Literes para niños
