This really is Italian
Opera at its superlative best.
Riccardo Muti and the
forces assembled under his baton come
as close to perfection as it is possible
to achieve in this re-issue of the magnificent
award winning performance recorded live
at La Scala in 1992.
The orchestra of La
Scala is in exceptional form and proves
itself equal to every nuance of the
unfolding drama, whilst the incomparably
well-matched cast of soloists sings
as if life itself depended on it. The
celebrated chorus contributes mellifluous,
yet articulate cascades of sound and
the combined effect really is the epitome
of excellence.
The opening prelude
begins with a searing and commanding
tenderness, which fluently leads into
a luscious and enveloping cantabile,
enhanced by the most subtle and judicious
use of rubato. This meticulously crafted
prelude consummately sets the scene
for the veritable roller coaster of
emotions, which is to follow, and the
supreme quality maintained throughout
further heightens an already intense
experience.
From the gaiety and
exuberance of the opening scene in Violetta’s
Paris salon, to the poignant and dramatic
moment when she finally drops down dead
at Alfredo’s feet, every single note,
sung or played, is articulated with
an unmistakable sincerity and a mesmerising
and transcendent commitment.
A musical achievement
of such stature is nothing short of
heroic and Sony Classics ought to be
congratulated for their vision, which
allowed a permanent record to be made
of this performance.
The 20 bit ‘high definition
sound’ technology used ensures a technically
excellent recording which is mercifully
not marred by some of the typical and
inappropriate extraneous noises: creaks,
squeaks, bumps, thuds and shuffles,
so often associated with live recordings.
The extremely brief
but informative sleeve note emulates
the approach of Muti and his musicians
by allowing the music speak for itself.
This recording has the potential to
transform the indifferent listener into
a passionate devotee of Italian Opera.
Leon Bosch
Orchestra and Chorus of La Scala, Milan/Riccardo
Muti