from Prologue of the German opera
Ariadne auf Naxos by Richard Strauss
Libretto: Hugo von Hofmannsthal
Role: The Composer, the composer of the opera being performed within this opera
Voice Part: mezzo-soprano
Setting: backstage before an operatic performance, a wealthy Viennese house, Vienna, Austria, 18th century
Synopsis: Immediately before the performance of his opera begins, the Composer declares his fervent belief in the great art of music.