Acerca de
Die Holle Rache kocht in meinen Herzen - Die Zauberflöte
A Brief Summary
The Queen of the Night Aria (Der Holle Race) is sung in the second act of Mozart's opera Die Zauberflote, or 'The Magic Flute'. The Magic Flute was written near the end of Mozart’s life, in 1791, following close collaboration with the resident company of the Theatre auf der Wieden (Schikaneder theatrical troupe) who were eventually employed in the performances. It quickly rose to popularity after its premiere in late September, and Mozart died a little over a month later.​
This scene depicts the Queen in a fit of rage as she commands her daughter to assassinate Sarastro, on the threat of being disowned and cursed.
The libretto is a continuation of a series of fairytale operas produced by the troupe, and is based on many sources from (then) current literature and medieval romances.
​
For future reference, download the score here
​
The Facts
1791
The piece was written the same year Mozart died, and premiered just over a month before his death.
The Music
Listen to this recording of Diana Damrau at The Royal Opera House while following along with your score and this listening guide:
Here is a second video, also showing the notated vocal line and lyrics, with Cristina Deutekom in the role of Queen of the Night, performing with the Philharmonic Orchestra of Hamburg.
And a third video -- just for fun!