Bellini: Il pirata

Album Description

Experience the timeless masterpiece of Vincenzo Bellini's "Il Pirata" in this stunning live remastered recording, featuring the incomparable Maria Callas. This 2017 release from Warner Classics captures the essence of Bellini's opera, originally performed in 1827, with a performance that took place at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London, on November 18, 1952. The album spans nearly two hours, offering a comprehensive journey through the dramatic and melodic richness of Bellini's score.

Maria Callas, renowned for her powerful and expressive voice, delivers a riveting performance as Imogene, the opera's protagonist. She is accompanied by a stellar cast, including Nicola Rossi-Lemeni as Gualtiero and Giuseppe Zecchini as Ernesto, among others. The orchestra, conducted by Nicola Rescigno, provides a lush and nuanced backdrop, highlighting the intricate beauty of Bellini's music.

"Il Pirata" is an opera in two acts, filled with passionate arias, duets, and choruses that showcase Bellini's signature bel canto style. The story revolves around the tumultuous love between Imogene and Gualtiero, a pirate, and the societal and personal conflicts they face. The live recording captures the raw energy and intensity of the performance, making it a captivating listen from start to finish.

This remastered edition ensures that the audio quality is pristine, allowing modern listeners to appreciate the full depth and range of Callas's voice and the orchestra's performance. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to Bellini's work and a showcase of Callas's legendary talent. The detailed tracklist includes all the key moments of the opera, from the stirring overture to the dramatic finales, providing a complete and immersive experience.

September 15, 2017

℗ 2017 Digital remastering Parlophone Records Limited, a Warner Music Group Company

About Vincenzo Bellini

Vincenzo Bellini, born in Italy in 1801, was a prodigious opera composer whose career, though tragically brief, left an indelible mark on the world of music. Renowned for his long, graceful melodies and evocative musical settings, Bellini is a central figure of the bel canto era. His operas, including the iconic "Norma" and "Il Pirata," are celebrated for their blend of florid embellishment and lyrical simplicity, creating a dramatic depth that resonates with audiences. Despite his untimely death at the age of 34, Bellini's compositions continue to inspire and captivate, showcasing his unique ability to merge musicological clarity with theatrical imagination. His legacy endures, influencing countless composers and enchanting opera enthusiasts worldwide.