William Tell Overture
The William Tell Overture is the orchestral introduction to Gioachino Rossini's opera Guillaume Tell (William Tell), first performed in 1839 and the last of Rossini's 39 operas. The Overture is one of the most famous pieces in the classical repertoire, and has been adapted and used for various purposes.
Franz Liszt's famous adaptation was written for piano solo; and Louis Gottschalk wrote versions for two pianos, four pianos, and piano/violin. The Overture is often used in popular culture; for example, as the musical theme for the Lone Ranger radio and television series, and in several cartoons featuring the characters Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, and Porky Pig.
Gioachino Rossini (1792 - 1868) was an Italian composer. In addition to his 39 operas, he wrote sacred music, chamber music, songs, instrumental pieces, and piano pieces. His best-known operas include the Italian comedies Il barbiere di Siviglia (The Barber of Seville) and La Cenerentola (Cinderella), and the French-language epics Mosè in Egitto (Moses in Egypt) and Guillaume Tell (William Tell).
