Artaserse (Hasse)

Artaserse is an opera in three acts composed by Johann Adolf Hasse. It is generally considered one of his most important and successful works. The libretto, written by Pietro Metastasio, was a highly popular one and had been set to music by numerous composers before Hasse, and continued to be afterward. Metastasio's Artaserse concerns the historical Artaxerxes I of Persia.

The opera premiered at the Teatro San Giovanni Grisostomo in Venice on February 4, 1730. It features roles for soprano, alto, and tenor voices, and showcases the elaborate vocal ornamentation and dramatic expression characteristic of the Baroque era. Notable arias from the opera include those for the characters Artaserse, Mandane, and Arbace.

Hasse's Artaserse is part of the canon of important operas of the 18th century and has been revived in modern times, often with countertenors taking on roles originally written for castrati. The work is celebrated for its melodic beauty, dramatic pacing, and skillful orchestration. Performances and recordings continue to contribute to its legacy.