Search - Giuseppe Verdi, Gianandrea Gavazzeni, Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra :: Verdi: Simon Boccanegra

Powerful, brooding: an essential

Mike Willis | Trafalgar, Victoria Australia | 11/01/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Here is a well-recorded (and superbly played) version of this dramatic opera. Under Gavazzeni's experienced and, on this occasion, inspired baton, the opera emerges as even darker and more dramatic than usual. Partly this is a result of the rich sound of the Vienna Philharmonic, which imposes a depth and (not inappropriate) richness to the orchestral palette. It certainly is an impressive orchestral sound. Indeed, the link between Mussorgsky's opera Boris Godunov, is more obvious than usual. The singing is excellent, and the whole experience is one to be treasured. Indeed this is one of the best sets on this label, and an essential for anyone interested in this composer - even if you have a version of this opera already. Right from the start, you know that this is a "real" performance, full of life, passion, and, especially, depth and tension. It's a steal. And it is also the perfect antidote to those who say that this is a rather boring and over long Verdi opera! Not a bit of it!"