Die Magd als Herrin

Translation: German (W. Ebermann/M. Koerth) Place and time: Italian, 17th Century Characters: Uberto, a Prosperous Burgher (bass) - Serpina, his Maid (soprano) - Vespone, his Servant (silent part) Pergolesi’s relationship to the word as the first, most important source of his inspiration was particularly close. For example, in the recitative, he chose the pitch and melodic gradient of a phrase depending on the degree of excitement of the ‘speaker.’ This already gave rise to the tasks of a new German version as if by itself: The realism of the original had to be met in its astonishing directness and its sharp contrasts. In addition, attempts were made to enforce the conception of the character comedy against the rudiments of the original farce and to emphasize Serpina’s plan to marry Uberto throughout. Finally, the original musical form had to be restored in all parts. Thus, also the original final duet ‘Contento tu sarai’ was reinstated, a piece full of grace and fire, which is entirely revolving around Serpina’s triumph. (Wolf Ebermann, Manfred Koerth)