05/17/2024
In Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's opera "Don Giovanni," the aria "Don Giovanni, a cenar teco" is a pivotal moment in the story. This dramatic piece is sung by the statue of the Commendatore, who has come to confront Don Giovanni and ultimately drag him to his fiery fate. The aria is a blend of powerful music and intense dramatic action, showcasing Mozart's genius.
The recording of this aria from 1955 features the Vienna State Opera under the baton of the renowned conductor Josef Krips. Krips, an Austrian conductor celebrated for his interpretations of Mozart's works, brings out the tension and drama of this scene with masterful precision. The Vienna State Opera Orchestra, known for its rich history and exceptional musicianship, provides a robust and dynamic accompaniment that enhances the foreboding atmosphere of the aria.
In this recording, the role of Don Giovanni is performed by Cesare Siepi, an Italian bass renowned for his charismatic stage presence and rich, sonorous voice. Siepi's portrayal of Don Giovanni is both charming and menacing, capturing the complex nature of the character. The role of the Commendatore is sung by Kurt Böhme, a German bass noted for his powerful voice and imposing presence. Böhme's performance in this recording is particularly memorable for its intensity and gravitas, perfectly embodying the supernatural avenger.
The aria begins with the Commendatore, now a statue, addressing Don Giovanni. He sings, "Don Giovanni, a cenar teco m'invitasti, e son venuto," which translates to "Don Giovanni, you invited me to dine with you, and I have come." This chilling invitation sets the stage for the confrontation. The Commendatore continues, "Là ci darem la mano, là mi dirai di sì," meaning "There we will join hands, there you will say yes to me."
Don Giovanni, defiant and unrepentant, responds with "Quello non poss'io far, no," or "That I cannot do, no." He questions the figure before him, asking, "Chi l'anima mi serra?" or "Who closes my soul?" The Commendatore's presence is terrifying, and Don Giovanni's reactions convey his inner turmoil and fear. The statue commands, "Fremi, ribrezza l'orribil figura," translating to "Shudder, recoil at the horrible figure," and further demands silence with "Taci, non rispondere," meaning "Be silent, do not answer."
The tension mounts as the Commendatore commands Don Giovanni to "Esci, fuggi, sparisci," or "Leave, flee, disappear." Finally, he concludes with a harsh judgment, "Non merta un uom si vile risposta più gentile," meaning "A man so vile does not deserve a more gentle response."
The 1955 recording by the Vienna State Opera captures the essence of Mozart's vision and the dramatic intensity of the opera. The recording quality, though reflective of its time, preserves the grandeur of the performance and the artistry of the performers, making it a classic interpretation of "Don Giovanni."
**Public Domain Citation:**
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, "Don Giovanni, a cenar teco," performed by Cesare Siepi and Kurt Böhme with the Vienna State Opera under Josef Krips, 1955. Public domain audio recording. Available at Wikipedia: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:W._A._Mozart_-_Don_Giovanni_-_40._Don_Giovanni,_a_cenar_teco_(Josef_Krips,_Wiener_Staatsoper,_1955).ogg
Josef Krips, Wiener Staatsoper, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
