Amahl and the Night Visitors

Album Description

Experience the timeless magic of Gian Carlo Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visitors," a beloved opera that has captivated audiences since its debut. Originally commissioned by NBC and first performed live on television in 1951, this one-act opera is a cherished holiday classic, performed annually across the country. The 1987 recording, released by RCA Red Seal, features a stellar cast and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, conducted by David Syrus, bringing Menotti's enchanting score to life.

"Amahl and the Night Visitors" tells the heartwarming story of a disabled boy named Amahl and his mother, who encounter three mysterious visitors on their journey. With an original English libretto by Menotti himself, the opera is a delightful blend of music and storytelling that resonates with audiences of all ages. The album's 27 tracks, spanning 46 minutes, include iconic arias and choruses that highlight Menotti's unique compositional style and lyrical genius.

This recording, made in the presence of Gian Carlo Menotti at Sadler's Wells Theatre, offers a rich and immersive listening experience. The opera's enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes and the composer's ability to create music that transcends time. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the genre, "Amahl and the Night Visitors" is a delightful addition to any music collection.

January 1, 1987

(P) 1987 Sony Music Entertainment

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.