Il barbiere di Siviglia
2 recordings · 11 min
In the Hall
- OvertureChicago Symphony Orchestra; Fritz Reiner · 22 November 1958, Orchestra Hall, Chicago7:03
Fritz Reiner conducts the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in Rossini’s overture to Il barbiere di Siviglia, which he used for three different operas. It opens with a stately introduction, followed by a fast main theme and a crescendo.
Listening notes
- Slow introduction in E major
The introduction moves slowly in E major. Loud orchestral chords interrupt the quieter phrases.
- Allegro vivo in E minor
The Allegro vivo starts in E minor, with quick, light string figures. Between the orchestral tutti passages Rossini gives solos to the woodwind.
- Earlier uses of the overture
Before it was used for Figaro, this overture opened Aureliano in Palmira in 1813 and Elisabetta, regina d’Inghilterra in 1815. Both were serious operas; Il barbiere di Siviglia is a comedy.
- Act I · Largo al factotumTitta Ruffo, baritone; Josef Pasternack, conductor · 19 April 19204:08
“Largo al factotum” is Figaro’s entrance aria in Act I of Il barbiere di Siviglia, sung as he arrives at dawn with a guitar round his neck. Titta Ruffo recorded it acoustically for Victor in 1920.
Listening notes
- Figaro’s self-portrait, Allegro vivace
The Allegro vivace in 6/8 carries Figaro’s self-portrait. He describes himself as always ready, always in demand and delighted with his trade, and repeats his own name many times.
- Figaro’s tools and trade
Sterbini gave Figaro razors, combs, lancets and scissors. Besides shaving, this barber lets blood and carries messages between lovers.
- Customers’ requests and “Figaro” calls
At “Tutti mi chiedono” Figaro acts out his customers’ demands for a wig, a shave and a bloodletting. After the repeated calls of his name he pleads for one person at a time. At “Pronto prontissimo” he boasts that he is as quick as lightning.