Mosè in Egitto

Gioachino Rossini

Gioachino Rossini (1792–1868) was the most celebrated Italian composer of his age, a master of both opera buffa and opera seria. Born in Pesaro, he penned nearly forty operas before the age of thirty-seven, including immortal works such as “Il barbiere di Siviglia,” “La Cenerentola,” and “Guillaume Tell.” “Adina, ovvero Il Califfo di Bagdad” (1818), though lesser-known, showcases all the melodic wit, rhythmic verve, and vocal brilliance that made Rossini the darling of Europe.

Rossini’s distinctive style, characterized by elegant melodies, rapid vocal passages, lively rhythms, and inventive orchestration, had a profound influence on nineteenth-century opera. His music combines theatrical energy with remarkable technical precision, allowing singers to display both virtuosity and expressive range. Even today, his operas remain staples of the international repertoire, admired for their wit, brilliance, and enduring freshness.

After retiring from the operatic stage at the height of his fame, he spent his later years in Paris as a revered cultural figure and gourmet.

1 2

Mosè in Egitto is a tragic-sacred opera in three acts by Gioachino Rossini, with a libretto by Andrea Leone Tottola, first performed in Naples in 1818. The story centres on Moses, prophet and leader of the Hebrews, who demands that the Pharaoh free his people from slavery. Complicating the conflict is the forbidden love between Osiris, the Pharaoh’s son, and the young Israelite Elcia, who is torn between her passion for the prince and her loyalty to her own people. Despite the ominous miracles performed by Moses and the intercession of Queen Amaltea, the Pharaoh stubbornly refuses to yield, unleashing the plague of darkness upon Egypt. Osiris, blinded by love and the fear of losing Elcia, opposes the departure of the Hebrews with all his might, plotting against Moses and attempting to keep his beloved by his side.

In the final act, liberation is achieved amidst miraculous events and human anguish: the Pharaoh, brought to his knees by the scourge, finally grants permission, but Osiris, in a rage, leads the Egyptian army in pursuit of the fleeing people as far as the shores of the Red Sea. Here Moses raises his prayer and strikes the waters with his staff: the sea parts into two liquid walls, allowing the Jews to cross on dry ground. When the Egyptian chariots, led by Osiris, launch themselves in pursuit, the waves close in, engulfing them. Elcia, having escaped the disaster, combines her grief with the joy of salvation, whilst Moses and the liberated people raise a solemn song of thanksgiving to the Lord, celebrating the triumph of faith and freedom.

Mosé in Egitto - bandeau.png