Antonio Salieri: La Fiera di Venezia

Album Description

Dive into the vibrant world of 18th-century Venice with Antonio Salieri's delightful opera buffa, "La Fiera di Venezia." This three-act commedia per musica, composed by the renowned Antonio Salieri, offers a captivating blend of humor, intricate plots, and enchanting melodies that showcase Salieri's mastery of the opera buffa genre. Set to an Italian libretto by Giovanni Gastone Boccherini, the opera premiered at the Burgtheater in Vienna and has since been celebrated for its amusing setting and rich musical composition.

"La Fiera di Venezia" is a testament to Salieri's prolific career, standing out among his approximately fifty operas. The opera is a delightful exploration of love, deception, and the whimsical nature of human behavior, all set against the backdrop of a bustling Venetian fair. The score is filled with arias, duets, and ensemble pieces that highlight Salieri's skill in crafting memorable and engaging music.

This 2019 recording, released by Deutsche Harmonia Mundi, features a stellar cast and the Prague Sinfonia Orchestra under the direction of Christian Benda. The album captures the essence of Salieri's composition, bringing to life the charm and wit of this classic opera buffa. With a duration of over two hours, this recording offers a comprehensive and immersive experience of "La Fiera di Venezia," making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are a longtime fan of Salieri's work or new to the world of opera buffa, this recording of "La Fiera di Venezia" is sure to delight and entertain.

August 23, 2019

(P) 2019 Sony Music Entertainment Germany GmbH

About Antonio Salieri

Antonio Salieri, born in the charming town of Legnago near Verona, was a titan of the classical period, leaving an indelible mark on the world of opera and classical music. As a prolific composer, his catalog boasts an impressive 33 operas, alongside a wealth of sacred and secular choral works, and a variety of instrumental compositions. Salieri's musical journey began under the tutelage of his brother and the local organist, where he honed his skills on the harpsichord and violin. His talents swiftly propelled him to Vienna, where he became a pivotal figure in the Habsburg monarchy's musical scene, serving as the imperial court composer and music director.

Throughout his career, Salieri's operas were celebrated across Europe, from Paris to Rome, and his influence extended far beyond his own compositions. As a teacher, he mentored generations of musicians, cementing his legacy as one of the most important and famous musicians of his time. Despite the enduring myth of his rivalry with Mozart, Salieri's contributions to music are vast and deserving of recognition. His works, though less performed today, offer a rich tapestry of the late 18th-century operatic landscape, reflecting the reforms of Gluck and the evolving tastes of European audiences. Whether exploring his operas, symphonies, or chamber music, Salieri's music invites listeners to experience the passion and innovation of the classical era.