Il Signor Bruschino (complete opera)

Premiered on January 27, 1813, at the Teatro San Mois? in Venice, Il signor Bruschino, ossia Il figlio per azzardo (Mr. Bruschino, or The Accidental Son) is a sparkling one-act comic opera that showcases Gioachino Rossini's (1792-1868) youthful wit and inventiveness. The plot revolves around Florville, who hopes to marry his beloved Sofia despite the objections of her guardian, Gaudenzio. In a twist of farcical deception, Florville pretends to be the son of the eponymous Bruschino to win over the skeptical guardian, leading to a cascade of comedic misunderstandings. Though one of Rossini's early works and not as frequently staged as his later masterpieces like The Barber of Seville or La Cenerentola, Il signor Bruschino remains a delightful gem in the opera buffa repertoire. It is celebrated today for its playful spirit, brisk pacing, and inventive orchestration--including the charmingly irreverent use of violins tapping their bows on music stands--which continues to endear it to audiences and performers alike. Instrumentation: 1.2+EH.2.1: 2.0.0.0: Str (4.4.3.3.3 in set): Vocal soli (8 roles, SSTTTBBB): Chorus. Reprint edition.