Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of Pietro Mascagni's operatic masterpieces, reimagined for the organ in this captivating 2018 release from Elegia Classics. Roberto Cognazzo, a virtuoso organist, breathes new life into Mascagni's compositions, showcasing the immense sonic palette of the historic Vegezzi Bossi organ from 1884, housed in the Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Massimo, Torino, Italia.
This album is a journey through Mascagni's early works, spanning the first decade of his prolific career. It opens with the iconic "Cavalleria Rusticana: Preludio e Siciliana," a piece that has become synonymous with Mascagni's name. The collection also includes other notable works like "L'amico Fritz: Intermezzo," "Guglielmo Ratcliff, Act I: Introduzione," and "Iris: Inno del Sole," each transcribed for the organ with meticulous attention to detail.
The album's duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes offers a substantial exploration of Mascagni's music, from the dramatic to the delicate. Cognazzo's performances are a testament to his skill and the organ's versatility, capturing the full range of emotions and nuances in these compositions. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to Mascagni's music, this album provides a unique and enriching listening experience.