"Verdi Prati" from Alcina

"Verdi prati" is one of the most famous arias from the opera "Alcina" by George Frideric Handel. The opera, first performed in 1735 at the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, London, is based on the epic "Orlando Furioso" by Ludovico Ariosto. "Alcina" tells the story of the sorceress of the same name who transforms her lovers into animals, plants, or stones on her magical island.

The aria "Verdi prati" is sung by Ruggiero in the second act, after he becomes aware of Alcina's illusions and realizes that the beauty of the island is just a deception. The aria expresses Ruggiero's melancholy and admiration for the apparent beauty of the nature around him, even though he knows he must leave it to escape the enchantment.

Musically, "Verdi prati" is characterized by a simple yet deeply moving melody that perfectly captures Ruggiero's longing and inner conflict. The aria's plain elegance reflects the beauty of the nature Ruggiero describes, while also conveying a sense of sadness over the loss of this beauty. Handel's mastery in composition is evident in his ability to convey complex emotions through music, making "Verdi prati" one of the highlights of the opera "Alcina".