Opera Daily 🎶 — Come scoglio

This week's Opera Daily features Teresa Berganza singing “Come scoglio,” from Act 1 of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s opera Così fan tutte

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Today, we’re listening to…

“Come scoglio,” an aria sung by the character Fiordiligi from Act 1 of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s opera Così fan tutte, performed here by Spanish mezzo-soprano Teresa Berganza.

What’s the context?

Guglielmo and Ferrando are arguing about whose girlfriend is more wonderful. They both talk about how devoted and loving their girlfriends are, and their friend, Don Alfonso, wagers that he can make both of their girlfriends fall in love with someone else. Guglielmo and Ferrando take him up on his challenge, and they dress up in costumes and try to woo the other’s girlfriend.

When they approach Fiordiligi, she sings the aria "Come Scoglio" or "Like a rock" because she wants everyone to know that she will not change her mind. She insists that the strangers go away and leave her alone.

Like a rock, I stand immobile, against the winds and the storm!
My soul is strong, in faith and in love.
A light is born inside me that gives pleasure and comfort,
and only death alone can change the way I feel.
Respect, ungrateful creature!
I am an example of loyalty, and not even your barbaric hope
can make you bold.

Through “Come scoglio,” Mozart challenges the singer with rapid changes in dynamics, lengthy phrases requiring exceptional breath control, and a melody that moves from the depths to the heights of a soprano’s range. This aria is a display of vocal power and a window into Fiordiligi's resolve and emotional strength.

🎧 Treat Your Ears (4 minute listen): Teresa Berganza singing “Come scoglio,” from Act 1 of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s opera Così fan tutte

A Glimpse into Così fan tutte:

• Premiere: Vienna, January 26, 1790.

• The Story: Così fan tutte is a clever and sometimes cynical take on love, fidelity, and the nature of human relationships. The opera follows two couples whose affections and loyalties are tested by a wager.

• Fiordiligi’s Role: As one of the central characters, Fiordiligi undergoes significant emotional turmoil. “Come scoglio,” often viewed as her musical manifesto, reveals her innermost conviction amidst the opera’s plot.

• Before the Aria Unfolds: Fiordiligi, confronted with the prospect of her fiancé's unfaithfulness, stands firm against the idea of infidelity. “Come scoglio," meaning "Like a rock," metaphorically compares her faithfulness to the unshakable stability of a cliff facing the relentless sea, highlighting both her virtuous nature and the impending challenges to her resolve.

Mozart’s Mastery: This aria showcases Mozart’s unparalleled ability to create complex, multifaceted characters through his music. The demanding technical aspects of "Come scoglio" mirror Fiordiligi’s emotional complexity and unwavering determination, making it a standout piece in the opera and a favorite among audiences and performers alike.

Grateful for your time and ears,

Michele

PS. Missed our last edition? We featured “Martern aller Arten”, sung by German Soprano Edda Moser from Mozart’s Die Entführung aus dem Serail.

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