Il pastor fido (Handel)

Il pastor fido (HWV 8 & HWV 8a) is the title of two operas by George Frideric Handel, both based on the pastoral tragicomedy of the same name by Giovanni Battista Guarini.

The first version, HWV 8, premiered at the Queen's Theatre, London, on 22 November 1712. It was not a success, only receiving six performances. The libretto was adapted by Giacomo Rossi. The opera is in three acts.

The second version, HWV 8a, is a revision of the first, with substantial changes and additions. This revised version premiered at the King's Theatre, London, on 18 May 1734. This version is notable for its inclusion of a ballet sequence, reflecting the growing popularity of ballet in London at the time. The libretto was adapted by an unknown author. The revised version is also in three acts.

Both versions of Il pastor fido tell a complex tale of love, betrayal, and mistaken identities amongst shepherds and nymphs. Key characters include Amarilli, Silvio, Mirtillo, and Eurilla. The opera explores themes of fidelity, sacrifice, and the conflict between love and duty.

While not as frequently performed as some of Handel's other operas like Giulio Cesare or Rinaldo, Il pastor fido contains moments of great beauty and showcases Handel's mastery of vocal writing and dramatic pacing. The aria "Caro amore," particularly in its various forms across both versions, is a notable highlight.