1. Use of Leitmotifs:
Mozart employed leitmotifs, which are recurring musical themes associated with specific characters, objects, or emotions, to create musical connections and underscore the narrative. For instance, in The Magic Flute, the leitmotif for Sarastro, the wise high priest, is a slow, solemn melody, while the Queen of the Night is characterized by a rapid, agitated theme. These musical motifs help establish the characters' identities and guide the audience's emotional response to them.
2. Musical Contrast and Juxtaposition:
Mozart skillfully used musical contrast and juxtaposition to heighten dramatic tension and convey contrasting emotions. For example, in Don Giovanni, the lighthearted, playful music of the first act contrasts sharply with the dark and foreboding music of the second act, reflecting the shift from youthful frivolity to moral retribution. Such contrasts create a sense of dramatic anticipation and underscore the emotional weight of the unfolding events.
3. Arias and Ensembles:
Mozart's operas feature a rich array of arias, duets, trios, and other ensemble pieces that contribute to the dramatic progression of the plot. Arias, in particular, serve as moments of emotional expression for individual characters, allowing them to convey their inner thoughts and feelings. In ensembles, the interactions and interplay of characters' vocal lines create dramatic tension and advance the storyline.
4. Harmonic Shifts and Dissonance:
Mozart's operas are known for their harmonic richness and use of chromatic harmony, which can create feelings of tension, uncertainty, or suspense. He employed harmonic shifts and dissonance effectively to mirror the emotional states of the characters and heighten the dramatic impact of certain scenes. For instance, the scene of Donna Anna's pursuit of Don Giovanni in Don Giovanni is characterized by intense harmonic instability, building tension until the dramatic confrontation between the two.
5. Orchestral Interludes and Recitatives:
Mozart's operas incorporate both recitatives and orchestral interludes that play crucial roles in the development of the plot. Recitatives, consisting of a soloist's sung speech accompanied by sparse instrumental accompaniment, provide narrative exposition and propel the story forward. Orchestral interludes, on the other hand, offer musical commentary and create mood and atmosphere, intensifying the dramatic impact of pivotal scenes.
By skillfully employing these musical structures and relationships, Mozart elevated his operas beyond simple entertainment, transforming them into powerful dramatic works that resonate emotionally and intellectually with audiences. His use of music to enhance the plot and deepen characterization remains a hallmark of his operatic genius and has influenced opera composers for generations.