Serse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Serse |
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| by George Frideric Handel | |
Handel in 1733
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| Genre | Opera seria in 3 acts |
| Native title | Serse |
| Translation | Xerxes |
| Librettist | Silvio Stampiglia |
| Language | Italian |
| Premiere | London, England 15 April 1738 |
Serse (pronounced SAIR-say), also known as Xerxes, is an opera seria (a serious opera) created by George Frideric Handel. It has three acts. The words for the opera, called the libretto, were written in Italian by Silvio Stampiglia. This opera was first shown in London on April 15, 1738.
When Serse first came out, it was not very popular. It only played five times before it stopped. But one song from the opera, called "Ombra mai fu", became very famous. People sometimes call it "Handel's Largo" because it is slow and beautiful.
Contents
What is Serse About?
Serse is an opera seria. This means it is a serious opera, often about kings, queens, or heroes. It usually has a grand story with strong emotions. Handel's Serse tells a story that mixes serious moments with some funny parts.
The Story of Serse
The opera is set in ancient Persia. It is about King Xerxes I (Serse in Italian). The story is mostly about love and family drama.
- King Serse is in love with a woman named Romilda.
- But Romilda loves Serse's brother, Arsamene.
- Adding to the drama, Serse is already supposed to marry Amastre. Amastre disguises herself as a man to follow Serse.
- There are many mix-ups and misunderstandings. In the end, everyone finds their true love. Romilda marries Arsamene, and Serse decides to marry Amastre.
Who Wrote Serse?
The music for Serse was written by George Frideric Handel. He was a very famous composer from Germany. He lived a long time ago, from 1685 to 1759. Handel wrote many operas and other musical works.
The story and words (libretto) were written by Silvio Stampiglia. He was an Italian writer. He based the story on an older play.
When and Where It Premiered
Serse was first performed in London, England. This happened on April 15, 1738. It was shown at the King's Theatre in Haymarket. This theater was a very important place for operas at the time.
Why is "Ombra mai fu" So Famous?
Even though the whole opera was not a big hit at first, the opening song, "Ombra mai fu", became incredibly popular. It means "Never was there a shade".
- The song is sung by King Serse. He sings it to a plane tree, praising its shade.
- It is a very calm and beautiful song.
- Because of its slow tempo, it is often called "Handel's Largo". A "largo" is a musical term for a very slow speed.
- This song is often played on its own in concerts. It is one of Handel's most recognized pieces of music.
Images for kids
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Title page of the libretto from 1738
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George Frideric Handel, painted in the 1720s
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The King's Theatre in London, where Serse was first performed
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Caffarelli, the singer who first played the role of Serse
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Élisabeth Duparc, who first played Romilda
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Antonia Merighi, who first played Amastre, in a funny drawing
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Katarina Karnéus playing Xerxes in a 2009 show
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An old painting of Xerxes crossing the Hellespont
See also
In Spanish: Serse para niños
