Reading about Salieri is one thing—but experiencing his music live is something entirely different.
At Boulder Opera Company's Mozart vs. Salieri Summer Concert, audiences will discover why Salieri captivated Europe during his lifetime through a selection of some of his most compelling works. Learn more about the concert or reserve your tickets today.
Selections from Les Danaïdes
One of Salieri's greatest triumphs, Les Danaïdes premiered in Paris in 1784 and was celebrated for its dramatic intensity, rich orchestration, and emotional depth. Once attributed to Christoph Willibald Gluck to help ensure its success, the opera quickly established Salieri's reputation as a composer of extraordinary dramatic power.
Our concert features highlights from this remarkable opera, including:
A thrilling duet showcasing Salieri's gift for dramatic vocal writing.
A moving solo aria that reveals his lyrical elegance and expressive melodies.
A powerful choral selection demonstrating the grandeur and theatrical scale that made Les Danaïdes one of the most admired operas of its time.
These excerpts reveal a composer capable of writing music every bit as compelling, emotionally charged, and sophisticated as many of his celebrated contemporaries. Hear these selections performed live at our Summer Concert.
Selections from La scuola de' gelosi
Comedy was another of Salieri's great strengths.
His opera La scuola de' gelosi ("The School of Jealousy") delighted eighteenth-century audiences with its sparkling wit, memorable melodies, and lively ensembles. The opera became one of the most frequently performed comic operas of its era and influenced later composers, including Mozart.
During the concert you'll hear:
The brilliant Overture, full of energy, elegance, and theatrical flair.
The delightful aria "Staremo in pace e in giubilo," a charming example of Salieri's melodic imagination and comic timing.
These works remind us that Salieri was not simply "Mozart's rival," but a master storyteller with his own distinctive musical voice. Meet the talented artists bringing this music to life.
Rediscover a Forgotten Master
For generations, audiences knew Salieri primarily through legend. Today, musicians and scholars are rediscovering what eighteenth-century listeners already knew—that he was one of Europe's finest composers.
By placing Mozart and Salieri side by side, this concert offers a rare opportunity to hear two remarkable musical personalities whose works helped define the Classical era.
Come with an open mind, listen with fresh ears, and decide for yourself.
You may leave with a new favorite composer.
Join us for Mozart vs. Salieri and experience these extraordinary works live. Reserve your seats today, explore our artists, and learn how you can support Boulder Opera Company's mission to bring exceptional opera to our community.