Paisiello: Fedra

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, dramatic world of Giovanni Paisiello's "Fedra," a captivating opera that has been meticulously preserved and presented in this stunning 2016 release. Composed in 1788, "Fedra" is a "dramma per musica" that showcases Paisiello's mastery of the operatic form, with a complex narrative and lush, evocative score that has captivated audiences for centuries.

This double-CD set captures a historic performance from the Teatro Massimo Bellini di Catania, marking the first modern staging of "Fedra" and celebrating the bicentenary of Paisiello's death. The opera tells the tragic tale of Phaedra, queen of Athens, and her ill-fated love for her stepson, Hippolytus. With a running time of nearly two hours, this recording offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the full scope of Paisiello's genius.

The cast features an impressive lineup of vocal talent, including Raffaella Milanesi as Fedra, Artavazd Sargsyan as Teseo, and Anna Maria Dell’Oste as Aricia, among others. Under the skilled direction of conductor Jérôme Correas, the Orchestra and Chorus of the Teatro Massimo Bellini di Catania bring Paisiello's score to life with vivid detail and dramatic intensity.

"Fedra" is a testament to Giovanni Paisiello's enduring legacy as one of the most influential composers of his time. This recording, released by Dynamic, is a treasure trove for opera enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike, offering a rare chance to discover a forgotten masterpiece that deserves a place in the canon of great operas. With its compelling story and breathtaking music, "Fedra" is an essential addition to any classical music collection.

28 okt 2016

2016 Dynamic

About Giovanni Paisiello

Giovanni Paisiello, born in the small Italian town of Roccaforzata in 1740, was a titan of the Classical era, renowned as the most popular opera composer of the late 1700s. His operatic works, numbering over 80, not only captivated audiences across Europe but also left an indelible mark on the likes of Mozart and Rossini. Paisiello's journey took him from the prestigious Conservatorio di S. Onofrio in Naples to the opulent courts of Catherine the Great in St. Petersburg and Napoleon in Paris. Among his most celebrated works is "Il Barbiere di Siviglia," which, though overshadowed by Rossini's later version, remains a testament to his genius. Beyond his operatic prowess, Paisiello's contributions to church music and concert works further cement his legacy as one of the most influential composers of his time.