La Serva Padrona

La serva padrona (The Servant Mistress) was originally sandwiched in between the opera seria Il prigioniero superbo (The Proud Prisoner), also by Pergolesi. The duo made their debut in 1733. It was the first Opera to be staged after an earthquake in Naples had caused all theatrical performances to be banned, and celebrated the birthday of the Empress of Habsburg. Il prigioniero is not a recognizable title in today?s Opera repertoire for good reason--it was unsuccessful in its day. Eventually the two pieces were separated, and La Serva Padrona went on to enjoy fame throughout Europe for years after its premier.

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The importance of this intermezzo can hardly be overlooked in the history of opera. It was appealing because of its presentation of characters that were relatable to any audience, such as the cunning maid and her aging master. La serva padrona, by Giovanni Battista Pergolesi (1710-36) is often seen as the quintessential piece that bridges the gap from the Baroque to the Classical period.

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