Fidelio Overture

Description

Although Beethoven wrote nine symphonies and many other instrumental works, he wrote only one opera, Fidelio (originally titled Leonore). None of his other works seem to have caused him as much effort and grief. Between 1805 and 1814 he composed four different overtures for the opera: Leonore Overtures Nos. 1,2, and 3, and the Fidelio Overture. For present day performances, Fidelio is usually played before the opera and Leonore No. 3 between the acts. Both overtures are played frequently at symphony concerts.

The story of the opera tells of a Spanish nobleman, Florestan, who was falsely imprisoned, and of his wife, Leonore. The latter, disguised as a boy and known as Fidelio, became an employee of the jail so as to be near her husband. After several dramatic events, all ends well.

The Fidelio Overture begins vigorously with a short unisonal Allegro. This is followed by an Adagio for horns and clarinets. The Allegro and the Adagio are repeated. Then the main theme is heard, played by the horn and answered by the clarinet. The main theme and a second one are then developed at length by the full orchestra. The Adagio is heard again, and the overture ends Presto.

Published by: Wynn Music Publishers