Zelmira

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.

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Zelmira is a musical drama in two acts by Gioachino Rossini, with a libretto by Andrea Leone Tottola, first performed in Naples in 1822. The story centres on Zelmira, daughter of Polydorus, King of Lesbos, and wife of the Trojan prince Ilo. Whilst Ilo is away at war, the treacherous usurper Antenore seizes the throne, leading everyone to believe he has killed Polidoro and plotting against Zelmira to legitimise his power. With the help of her trusted maid Emma, the young queen hides her father—who is still alive—in the royal mausoleum and ensures her young son’s safety by staging his death. Antenore, incited by the traitor Leucippo, accuses Zelmira of murdering her father and the child; to protect them, she remains silent and accepts her sentence. Meanwhile, Ilo, having secretly returned to Lesbos in disguise, sets out to unmask the usurper and uncover the truth.

In the second act, the truth comes to light: as Zelmira is led to her execution, Ilo reveals his true identity and exposes the plots of Antenore and Leucippo. Polidoro emerges alive from the tomb and is reunited with his daughter, whilst his young son is returned safe and sound to his mother’s arms. Antenore and Leucippo are arrested and punished; Zelmira and Ilo reclaim the throne of Lesbos and peace is restored. The opera concludes with a jubilant chorus celebrating the power of conjugal love, family loyalty and the triumph of justice over deceit.

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