Bellini: Bianca e Gernando

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Vincenzo Bellini's early masterpiece, "Bianca e Gernando," a rare gem from the bel canto era. This album, released on Naxos, offers a complete live recording of Bellini's opera, showcasing the composer's burgeoning talent and the richness of his musical language. Composed for the inauguration of the Carlo Felice Theatre in Genoa in 1828, "Bianca e Gernando" is a dramatic tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, set to some of Bellini's most evocative melodies.

Conducted by Antonino Fogliani, this performance brings together a stellar cast and the Massimo Theatre Orchestra, delivering a powerful and engaging rendition of Bellini's score. The album spans two discs and a total duration of 1 hour and 57 minutes, featuring all the dramatic highlights of the opera, from the intense duets to the soaring arias. The recording captures the immediacy and energy of a live performance, making it a thrilling listen for both Bellini enthusiasts and opera newcomers alike.

The album includes the revised version of the opera, known as the "New Edition by F. Bauer," which features subtle changes and refinements to the original score. This edition offers a unique perspective on Bellini's creative process and the evolution of his musical style.

"Bianca e Gernando" is a testament to Vincenzo Bellini's enduring genius and his significant contribution to the opera repertoire. This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of opera, the development of the bel canto style, or simply the enjoyment of a beautifully crafted and dramatically compelling work.

11 augustus 2017

2017 Naxos

About Vincenzo Bellini

Vincenzo Bellini, born in Italy in 1801, was a prodigious opera composer whose career, though tragically brief, left an indelible mark on the world of music. Renowned for his long, graceful melodies and evocative musical settings, Bellini is a central figure of the bel canto era. His operas, including the iconic "Norma" and "Il Pirata," are celebrated for their blend of florid embellishment and lyrical simplicity, creating a dramatic depth that resonates with audiences. Despite his untimely death at the age of 34, Bellini's compositions continue to inspire and captivate, showcasing his unique ability to merge musicological clarity with theatrical imagination. His legacy endures, influencing countless composers and enchanting opera enthusiasts worldwide.