Walter Meyer wrote:

>But do you really think some of the ensemble passages where different
>groups on the stage are simultaneously singing different texts (Boito's
>text to Falstaff comes to mind first, but this occurs in other operas also,
>of course) were expected by the composer to be followed by the audience?

Very like Gilbert and Sullivan.  If you hear the ensemble"A Nice Dilemma"
from Trial by Jury, you'll get some idea of the combined genius' work.
Different words, rhythms, everything.  I know- I've sung in the chorus!

Doris ><> ("I shall recover if left alone......")