In 1786 Mozart composed his wonderful opera Le Nozze di Figaro (KV 492). The Italian libretto, based on the play Le mariage de Figaro by Beaumarchais, was written by Lorenzo da Ponte—who also made the libretti of Mozart's opera's Don Giovanni and Così fan tutte. In the opera Le Nozze di Figaro, Count Almaviva tries to seduce the fiancée of Figaro, his valet. Eventually, through four acts full of complicated intrigue, he is outwitted. In his music, Mozart—at times in a humorous way—reflects the numerous social and erotic intrigues with both empathy and insight. The brilliant overture is just as vivacious and witty as the opera itself. Mozart delightfully anticipates the passion and playful love that is to come. The skillful transcription for concert band by Tohru Takahashi certainly does justice to this appealing music.
