Meyerbeer: Romilda e Costanza

Album Description

Experience the resplendent world of Giacomo Meyerbeer's early operatic genius with "Meyerbeer: Romilda e Costanza," a captivating live recording that brings to life the composer's fourth and first Italian opera. This 1817 masterpiece, set in medieval Provence, is a rescue opera that exemplifies the grandeur and drama of the late 18th to early 19th-century genre.

The album features a stellar cast, including Chiara Brunello, Luiza Fatyol, and Patrick Kabongo, who deliver powerful and nuanced performances that breathe life into Meyerbeer's intricate score. The Górecki Chamber Choir and the Passionart Orchestra Krakow, conducted by Paul Korenhof, provide a rich and vibrant musical backdrop, showcasing the composer's innovative use of harmony and orchestration.

Spanning over two and a half hours, this three-CD set is a comprehensive exploration of Meyerbeer's operatic prowess. From the stirring opening sinfonia to the dramatic climaxes and tender arias, each track offers a glimpse into the composer's evolving style and his ability to craft compelling narratives through music. The live setting adds an extra layer of excitement and authenticity, capturing the energy and passion of a live performance.

"Meyerbeer: Romilda e Costanza" is not just a historical artifact but a testament to the enduring power of opera. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this recording offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Dive into the world of Giacomo Meyerbeer and discover the timeless beauty of "Romilda e Costanza."

November 27, 2020

(P) 2020 Naxos

About Giacomo Meyerbeer

Giacomo Meyerbeer, born Jacob Liebmann Beer, was a German opera composer who rose to become one of the most celebrated and influential figures in 19th-century music. Hailing from a wealthy Jewish family in Prussia, Meyerbeer's journey took him through Italy and France, where he honed his craft and adopted his stage name. He is renowned for pioneering the grand opera genre, blending German orchestral style with Italian vocal traditions to create spectacular, melodramatic works that captivated audiences. His collaborations with librettist Eugène Scribe resulted in iconic operas like "Robert le diable," "Les Huguenots," and "Le prophète," which set the standard for Parisian opera and solidified the city's reputation as the opera capital of the world. Meyerbeer's innovations and dramatic flair left an indelible mark on the operatic landscape, influencing composers such as Richard Wagner and solidifying his legacy as a bridge between the classical and romantic eras.