LA FORZA DELL’AMOR PATERNO: Alessandro Stradella, 1678. A father relinquishes his claim on his beautiful fiancée when he discovers that his son’s madness is caused by his love for the same woman. Original commission from Barber Opera. This rare baroque romantic comedy has been condensed to a performing time of about 2 hours 40 minutes, which gives ample opportunity to experience the melodic invention of Stradella in his prime. There is comedy and tragedy, madness and ecstasy, all in a seamless blend of flowing recitative and bravura arias.
