Salieri: Armida

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Antonio Salieri's "Armida," a captivating operatic masterpiece that showcases the composer's early genius. This three-act dramma per musica, set to a libretto by Marco Coltellini, is based on the epic poem "Gerusalemme liberata" by Torquato Tasso. First performed in 1771, "Armida" was Salieri's fourth opera and his first major success, marking his entry into the opera seria genre at the tender age of twenty.

"Armida" is a perfect synthesis of Italian and French styles, reflecting Salieri's training under the renowned composer Christoph Willibald Gluck. The opera follows the naturally unfolding action and melodic arias characteristic of Gluck's reform operas, making it a significant work in the evolution of operatic style. The plot revolves around the enchantress Armida and her attempts to seduce and distract the Christian knight Rinaldo, adding layers of intrigue and passion to the narrative.

This exquisite recording, released by Aparté in 2021, features the talented ensemble of Les Talens Lyriques under the baton of Christophe Rousset. The performance is brought to life by a stellar cast, including Lenneke Ruiten as Armida, Teresa Iervolino as Ismene, Florie Valiquette as Rinaldo, and Ashley Riches as Ubaldo. The Chœur de Chambre de Namur adds depth and richness to the vocal performances, creating a truly immersive listening experience.

Spanning nearly two hours, this album offers a comprehensive journey through Salieri's operatic vision. From the opening sinfonia to the dramatic finales, each track is a testament to Salieri's compositional prowess and his ability to weave a compelling musical narrative. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Armida" promises an unforgettable exploration of one of the most intriguing figures in classical music history.