Barbiere (Rossini) Open12 Parts

Il Barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville), Gioachino Rossini’s comic masterpiece, premiered at the Teatro Argentina in Rome on February 20, 1816. Based on the first play of Pierre Beaumarchais’ famous trilogy, the opera follows the clever barber Figaro as he helps Count Almaviva win the hand of the beautiful Rosina. Rossini’s vibrant score teems with sparkling arias, intricate ensembles, and irresistible energy. The opera exemplifies opera buffa at its finest—witty, fast-paced, and full of musical brilliance. Despite a rocky premiere, Il Barbiere quickly became one of the most beloved operas ever composed.

Barbiere for Chamber Ensemble (12-13 players)

With only one player per string part, careful attention must be given to sound balance. Unlike the Chamber Orchestra version, which includes a fuller string section, the reduced string forces can be easily overpowered by winds or percussion. We recommend subtle amplification of the strings where possible, or alternatively, strategic dynamic adjustments—such as reducing wind and percussion volume—to maintain clarity and ensemble blend. The Barber of Seville for Chamber Ensemble requires:

• Flute with piccolo, oboe, clarinet, bassoon
• (French) Horn, trumpet
• 1 percussionist with bass drum sistro and optional timpani
• String quintet (1.1.1.1.1)
• Continuo (conductor)

Open12 Edition

Open12 Editions are similar to the newer Chamber Ensemble versions.. The upgrade includes more options and higher printing standards, including cues in multi-rests and larger fonts. The Open12 Edition of Barbiere di Siviglia will remain available until the Chamber Ensemble version is issued.