An opera buffa, or comic opera that takes place in early 19th century Rome, Don Pasquale revolves around two characters, Dr. Malatesta and Norina, who scheme to bilk the wealthy Don Pasquale of his fortune. But Don Pasquale’s nephew, Ernesto, is in love with Norina, and hopes to marry her.
Unfortunately for Ernesto, his uncle picks another bride for him, and when Ernesto refuses to marry her, his uncle disinherits him.
In this aria, Ernesto laments his fate, as he sings “Cercherò lontana terra /I shall seek a distant land,” and prepares to leave Rome.
