Verdi
I Lombardi alla Prima Crociata
Nino Machaidze, Piero Pretti et al; Bavarian Radio Choir; Munich Radio Orchestra/Ivan Repušić
BR Klassik 900351 101:26 mins (2 discs)
This is the latest exploration by the chorus and orchestra of Bavarian Radio and their conductor Ivan Repušić of Verdi’s early operatic works. I Lombardi was Verdi’s fourth opera, staged in Milan in 1843. The programme notes to the recording – made at a concert performance in Munich’s Prince Regent Theatre in April 2023 – rather do the opera down, pointing to a weak libretto, lack of characterisation and uninspired plot dynamics.
With such low expectations, it is a pleasant surprise to discover that I Lombardi has so many strengths. Choruses are vivid, key arias are melodic and the orchestration shows Verdi’s increasing sophistication. The plot concerns the exploits of the Lombards during the First Crusade in the late 11th century. Pagano falls out with his brother Arvino and ends up a hermit in the Holy Land. Arvino’s daughter Giselda goes on a pilgrimage, is captured in Antioch and falls in love with the Muslim ruler’s son, Oronte. The pair elope, helped by Pagano, who is eventually reconciled with his brother just as the crusaders prepare to take the city of Jerusalem.
Soprano Nino Machaidze takes on the principal role of Giselda with vocal power and panache, although her phrasing can be angular and her top range is a little harsh at times. Tenor Piero Pretti brings Italianate lyricism and sensitivity to the role of Oronte, while Galeano Salas and Michele Pertusi lend muscle to the roles of Arvino and Pagano. The Munich chorus is vigorous and expressive in the rousing and reflective choruses, and Ivan Repušić energetically propels the orchestra forward. Sound editing cuts out audience and background noise but leaves the theatrical ambience feeling a touch flat and empty. John-Pierre Joyce