Births on January 3

Pietro Metastasio, Italian poet and songwriter (d. 1782)

Pietro Antonio Domenico Trapassi, universally acclaimed by his enduring pseudonym of Pietro Metastasio (Italian pronunciation: [metaˈstaːzjo]), was a towering figure in 18th-century European culture. Born on 3 January 1698, he achieved unparalleled renown as an Italian poet and librettist, a literary architect whose works profoundly shaped the operatic landscape of his era. He is unequivocally regarded as the most important writer of opera seria libretti, setting the standard for dramatic and poetic excellence in a genre that dominated the musical stages of the time.

Metastasio’s original surname, Trapassi, was Hellenized into “Metastasio” by his patron, the distinguished jurist and literary critic Gian Vincenzo Gravina. This transformation, derived from the Greek “Metastasis” (μετάστασις), meaning "change" or "transformation," reflected a classical aesthetic and provided a more fitting identity for a burgeoning poetic talent who would indeed transform operatic writing. As a prominent member of the Roman Arcadia, an influential literary academy promoting classical simplicity and pastoral themes, Metastasio developed a refined poetic style that resonated deeply with the prevailing artistic tastes.

As a librettist, Metastasio penned the narrative texts, known as libretti (singular: libretto), upon which composers built their operas. His genius lay in crafting sophisticated, emotionally rich plots that adhered to the conventions of opera seria – a serious form of Italian opera typically based on mythological, historical, or heroic themes. These operas traditionally featured a succession of virtuosic da capo arias, designed to showcase the singers' vocal prowess, interspersed with recitatives that advanced the storyline. Metastasio masterfully balanced dramatic integrity with poetic elegance, providing composers with ideal vehicles for musical expression.

From 1730 until his death on 12 April 1782, Metastasio held the prestigious position of Imperial Poet (Poeta Cesareo) at the Habsburg court in Vienna. This influential role cemented his status as Europe's leading operatic literary figure. His prolific output and a keen understanding of operatic drama ensured that his libretti became the most widely set texts of the 18th century, adopted by virtually every significant composer of the period. This illustrious list includes, but is not limited to, masters such as Johann Adolf Hasse, George Frideric Handel (who often adapted existing texts, including some by Metastasio), Christoph Willibald Gluck (whose later reform operas, paradoxically, often reacted against Metastasian conventions while still acknowledging his impact), Niccolò Jommelli, Leonardo Vinci, Tommaso Traetta, and Antonio Salieri.

Many of Metastasio's libretti, such as Didone abbandonata (Dido Abandoned), Artaserse (Artaxerxes), Alessandro nell'Indie (Alexander in India), Demofoonte, and Adriano in Siria (Hadrian in Syria), were set to music dozens of times by different composers across various European cities. This extensive re-use underscores their remarkable popularity and enduring dramatic appeal, solidifying his role in shaping the very structure and aesthetic of serious opera for decades to come. His legacy remains synonymous with the golden age of Italian opera librettos, a testament to his profound and lasting impact on the history of music and literature.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pietro Metastasio

Who was Pietro Metastasio?

Pietro Metastasio was an Italian poet and librettist (writer of opera texts) who lived from 1698 to 1782. He is considered the most important and influential writer of opera seria libretti in the 18th century.

What is opera seria?

Opera seria, meaning "serious opera," was a dominant genre of Italian opera during the Baroque and early Classical periods. These operas typically featured heroic or mythological themes, a strong emphasis on vocal virtuosity through elaborate arias, and a structured three-act format.

Why did Pietro Trapassi use the pseudonym Metastasio?

His patron, Gian Vincenzo Gravina, Hellenized his original surname "Trapassi" (meaning "passage" or "change") into "Metastasio" (from the Greek "Metastasis"). This change was intended to give him a more classical and refined identity, reflecting his poetic aspirations and connection to the Arcadian Academy.

Which composers set Metastasio's libretti to music?

Nearly every major composer of the 18th century set Metastasio's libretti. Notable composers include Johann Adolf Hasse, George Frideric Handel, Christoph Willibald Gluck, Leonardo Vinci, Niccolò Jommelli, and Antonio Salieri, among many others.

What was Metastasio's most influential position?

From 1730 until his death, Metastasio served as the Imperial Poet (Poeta Cesareo) at the prestigious Habsburg court in Vienna, a role that positioned him at the center of European operatic development.