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La cambiale di matrimonio
La cambiale di matrimonio (The Bill of Marriage or The Marriage Contract) is a one-act operatic farsa comica by Gioachino Rossini to a libretto by Gaetano Rossi. The libretto was based on the play by Camillo Federici (1791) and a previous libretto by Giuseppe Checcherini for Carlo Coccia's 1807 opera, Il matrimonio per lettera di cambio. The opera debuted on 3 November 1810 at the Teatro San Moisè in Venice Composed in a few days when he was 18 years old, La cambiale di matrimonio was Rossini's first professional opera. The overture, written when he was a student at the Liceo Musicale in Bologna, is an important part of the modern concert repertoire. As was to become typical of his later career, the duet "Dunque io son" was later reused, to greater effect, in act 1 of The Barber of Seville
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Plot Summary
This opera buffa by Gioachino Rossini tells the story of tobacconist Tobias Mill, who is desperate to marry off his daughter Fanny. He has arranged a marriage for her with the wealthy but odious Lord Robinson, who is traveling from India. However, Fanny is in love with the young student Eduardo. To complicate matters, Mill has stood surety for a debt for his friend Nardo, and the debt is due today, requiring a "marriage bill" to settle it. The ensuing comedic chaos involves mistaken identities, attempted elopements, and the eventual, albeit somewhat reluctant, acceptance of true love.
Critical Reception
Rossini's early opera, 'La cambiale di matrimonio,' is generally appreciated for its youthful energy and burgeoning musical genius. Productions often highlight its comedic elements and Rossini's signature rapid-fire patter and melodic inventiveness, though it is not as frequently performed as his later masterpieces. Critical reception for specific performances varies, but the work itself is recognized as a charming and significant early example of Italian comic opera.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sparkling wit and Rossini's early mastery of comic opera.
Often lauded for its effervescent musical numbers and lively pacing.
Recognized as a significant and enjoyable work from the composer's formative years.
Google audience: Information regarding specific audience reception on Google for this particular opera performance is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Rossini composed 'La cambiale di matrimonio' in an astonishingly short period, reportedly completing it in just 24 days at the age of 18.
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