The Story Behind the Song

“La donna e mobile” is an operatic aria from the famous Italian opera Rigoletto, composed by Giuseppe Verdi in 1851. The lyrics of the song were written by Francesco Maria Piave. The song is a central part of the opera and its libretto, which tells the tragic story of a hunchbacked court jester and his daughter, Gilda. The song is sung by the Duke of Mantua in Act II, and it is his way of expressing his appreciation for the beauty of women. The Duke is known for his womanizing ways, and this song captures his attitude perfectly.

The Meaning of the Lyrics

The lyrics of “La donna e mobile” can be translated to mean “women are changeable” or “women are fickle”. This is a popular idiom in Italian, and it is used to describe the way women can be unpredictable or flighty in their behavior. It is also used to refer to the tendency of women to change their minds about something or someone quickly. The lyrics of the song are a reflection of the Duke’s attitude towards women, as he believes that they can be easily swayed by his charms.

The Music

The music of “La donna e mobile” is light and airy, and it follows the typical form of a cantabile aria. It is written in E major, and it has a cheerful, upbeat melody that is full of energy. The song is often performed as a solo, but it can also be accompanied by a string orchestra or a chorus of voices. The music of the song has become a popular choice for sing-alongs, and it is often used in karaoke bars.

The Performance

The performance of “La donna e mobile” is often done in a traditional style, with the singer standing in the center of the stage and singing the aria directly to the audience. However, it can also be performed in a more modern style, with the singer backed by a full orchestra and a chorus of voices. The performance of the song typically lasts between two and three minutes, although some performers have been known to stretch it out to five or six minutes.

The Legacy

“La donna e mobile” has become one of the most beloved arias in the operatic repertoire, and it is a popular choice for singers and pianists alike. It is often used as an audition piece, and it is a staple of the operatic repertoire. The song has been featured in many films and television shows, and it has been covered by many popular artists. It is a beloved classic that is sure to remain a part of the operatic tradition for years to come.

Conclusion

“La donna e mobile” is a beloved aria with a catchy melody and meaningful lyrics. It is a reflection of the Duke of Mantua’s attitude towards women, and it has become a beloved classic that is often used as an audition piece and a staple of the operatic repertoire. The song has been featured in many films and television shows, and it has been covered by many popular artists. It is a timeless classic that is sure to remain a part of the operatic tradition for years to come.