“…In the 18th and 19th centuries, the opera was not only a typical form of artistic expression, but also a relevant factor in social and political life (Johnson, 1995; Müller, Ther, Toelle, & zur Nieden, 2010; Ther, 2006; Walter, 1997). Opera performances, ceremonial cantatas and musical tournaments were more than cultural events and public entertainments: the ruling elites used them to make politics “by sensorial means”, operas and festivals funded by and performed at the princely courts were “acoustic demonstrations of government” (Werr, 2010).…”