Così fan tutte

'All Women do the Same, or The School for Lovers', this is how Lorenzo da Ponte, the librettist of Mozart's 'Dramma giocoso', entitled his libretto. Ever since the world premiere of 'Così fan tutte' in 1790, there have been speculations as to why the composer dealt with such a 'silly' or even 'immoral' text and put it to music in such a bright and cheerful way. Even Beethoven and Wagner were among the critics who virtually took offence at Mozart for composing the music of such a cynical comedy – bright music full of merry southern atmosphere and numerous 'beautiful' melodies. Kurt Pahlen comments on the work with music-related references as well explanations on the external and internal action. A short summary of the plot and a brief outline of the genesis bring 'Così fan tutte' into relation with the composer's entire oeuvre and life, thus providing comprehensive, richly illustrated information on this opera.