Composer: Antonio Vivaldi
Works: Orlando Furioso
Performers: Marilyn Horne (Orlando), Susan Patterson (Angelica), Kathleen Kuhlmann (Alcina), Sandra Walker (Bradamante), Jeffrey Gall (Ruggerio), William Matteuzzi (Medoro), Kevin Langan (Astolfo), Orchestra and Chorus of the San Francisco Opera, Randall Behr
Recording: 1989, San Francisco
Label: ARTHAUS DVD 100210
Antonio Vivaldi, the Baroque maestro known primarily for his instrumental compositions, penned an impressive array of operas, many of which languished in obscurity until the late 20th century. Among these, Orlando Furioso, composed in 1727, is a work that exemplifies his unique blend of lyrical beauty and dramatic intensity. The opera, based on Ludovico Ariosto’s epic narrative, unfolds in the enchanted realm of Alcina, a sorceress whose manipulations of love and power create a captivating tapestry of emotional turmoil and lyrical splendor. This 1989 revival, staged by Pier Luigi Pizzi and captured in the San Francisco Opera’s production, provides a window into Vivaldi’s operatic prowess, even as its visual elements may leave something to be desired.
The performances are, across the board, commendable, with Marilyn Horne leading the cast as Orlando. Her command of the bel canto style is evident, although her stage presence occasionally lacks the dynamism one might expect from such a formidable talent. Horne’s vocal delivery is marked by a rich timbre and a nuanced interpretation, particularly in her aria “Se mai senti spirarti sul volto.” Here, she navigates Vivaldi’s intricate melodic lines with a deftness that highlights both the yearning and despair of her character. However, the staging often constrains her, resulting in moments that feel overly static against the emotional turbulence of the narrative.
Susan Patterson as Angelica emerges as a standout, her voice smooth and expressive, particularly in her duet with Medoro, “Non ti scordar di me,” where the interplay of their voices weaves a delicate tapestry of love and longing. Countertenor Jeffrey Gall, in his portrayal of Ruggerio, delivers a particularly poignant interpretation of “Sol da te, mio dolce amore,” supported by an obbligato flute that underscores the aria’s wistfulness. The blend of voices is generally well-balanced, with Kathleen Kuhlmann’s vibrant portrayal of Alcina contributing significantly to the opera’s dramatic tension. Her aria “Vorresti amor da me?” is executed with a captivating combination of beauty and seduction, showcasing Vivaldi’s flair for writing for the female voice.
The recording itself, while live, captures the essence of the performance with clarity, although it is not without the typical audience interruptions one might expect. The engineering allows for a satisfactory representation of the orchestra, with Randall Behr leading the musicians with a keen sense of Vivaldi’s rhythmic vitality and melodic flow. The orchestra’s articulation provides a solid foundation for the singers, although there are moments when the instrumental forces seem to overpower the vocal lines, particularly during ensemble passages.
While Orlando Furioso may not boast the lavish production values of some contemporary operatic endeavors, its musical merits are undeniable. The minimal staging choices and uninspired design detract from the overall experience, yet the strength of the performances and the richness of Vivaldi’s score shine through. Compared to other recordings of Vivaldi’s operas, this DVD stands as a valuable contribution, particularly given the scarcity of video documentation for this repertoire.
The interplay of superb vocal performances against a somewhat lackluster visual backdrop ultimately underscores Vivaldi’s enduring genius. The music transcends the limitations of its staging, making this production a worthwhile addition to both the collector’s library and the broader appreciation of Vivaldi’s operatic contributions. This DVD, despite its shortcomings, encapsulates the spirit of Orlando Furioso and is essential for those seeking to explore the depths of Vivaldi’s operatic landscape.
