The Telephone

Album Description

Experience the timeless charm of Gian Carlo Menotti's "The Telephone," a delightful one-act comic opera that remains as relevant and hilarious today as it was when it premiered in 1947. This enchanting piece, originally written for two singers and a chamber ensemble, has been beautifully reimagined for the modern era, exploring how technology can both connect and disconnect us.

The opera, subtitled "L'Amour à Trois," follows the comedic misadventures of a couple trying to plan their future together, constantly interrupted by the insistent ringing of a telephone. Menotti's witty libretto and colorful score blend piquant humor with subtle nods to the grandeur of classic opera, creating a unique and entertaining experience.

This 2020 recording, released by Linn Records, features a stellar cast and a contemporary take on Menotti's original vision. The production, filmed under lockdown conditions at the King's Theatre in Edinburgh, brings a fresh perspective to this beloved work, making it an essential addition to any opera enthusiast's collection. With a runtime of just over 24 minutes, "The Telephone" is a perfect introduction to Menotti's genius and a delightful way to spend a quarter of an hour.

18 december 2020

2020 Edinburgh International Festival

2020 Linn Records

About Gian Carlo Menotti

Gian Carlo Menotti, the prolific Italian-American composer, is renowned for his significant contributions to the world of opera, with a repertoire of 25 captivating works. Primarily active in the mid-20th century, Menotti's operas are celebrated for their expressive lyricism and dramatic intensity, making him one of the most frequently performed opera composers of his time. Influenced by the likes of Giacomo Puccini and Modest Mussorgsky, Menotti's compositions are deeply rooted in the verismo tradition, emphasizing natural rhythms and textual clarity to enhance the dramatic narrative. His rejection of atonality and the Second Viennese School's aesthetic further solidifies his unique voice in the opera world. Menotti's works, particularly those from the 1940s and 1950s, continue to captivate audiences with their emotional depth and musical richness.