Giordano: Andrea Chénier

Album Description

Experience the timeless masterpiece "Andrea Chénier" by Umberto Giordano, now remastered and available for your collection. This live recording, originally from 1955 in Milan, showcases the incomparable Maria Callas in one of her most celebrated roles, alongside a stellar cast that includes Aldo Protti and Carlo Forti. The opera, set against the tumultuous backdrop of the French Revolution, weaves a passionate tale of ill-fated love between an idealistic poet, Andrea Chénier, and an aristocratic lady, Maddalena di Coigny.

This 2017 release by Warner Classics captures the raw intensity and dramatic power of Giordano's verismo opera, making it a quintessential addition to any opera enthusiast's library. With a running time of 1 hour and 49 minutes, the album features 44 tracks that span the entire opera, from the opulent salons of pre-revolutionary France to the chaotic streets during the Reign of Terror.

Umberto Giordano's "Andrea Chénier" is not just an opera; it's a historical drama that resonates with themes of love, sacrifice, and the struggle for freedom. The remastered audio quality brings out the finest details in Callas' legendary voice, as well as the rich orchestration that underscores the opera's dramatic narrative. Whether you're a seasoned opera aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this live recording offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of verismo opera.

September 15, 2017

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

About Umberto Giordano

Umberto Giordano, born in the southern Italian city of Foggia in 1867, is celebrated for his powerful and emotive operas that defined the verismo style. His most renowned work, "Andrea Chénier," is a vocal tour de force that has captivated audiences with its dramatic intensity and rich melodic lines. Giordano's journey to becoming a renowned composer was marked by his studies under Paolo Serrao at the Conservatoire of Naples, where he honed his craft and laid the foundation for his future successes. Throughout his career, Giordano composed a dozen operas, each contributing to his legacy as a master of the verismo genre. His works, including "Fedora" and "Siberia," are known for their realistic portrayals of life and deep emotional resonance. Giordano's contributions to opera have left an indelible mark on the world of classical music, making him a pivotal figure in the verismo movement.