All this means is, how Rizzi structures and arranges Puccini's musical scenes really doesn't bother me. I understand they are taken out of order from the operas, so if you are attached to these shows, expect something very different.
Really, the only lurching effect I sensed was the leap into 'Un bel di' early on in the Madame Butterfly Suite. Rizzi seems more intent on giving the listener musical contrast rather than putting together a chronological or sensitive musical setting, so it might irk those who are familiar with the plot. Otherwise, since I don't know any better, these two opera suites, the other from Tosca, worked perfectly well for me.
Added to the program are Puccini's early Preludio Sinfonico and Capriccio Sinfonico. They are both rather sober, late-Romantic works, with long-breathed climaxes. While I liked being introduced to these works, did I need two versions of the Preludio, which only time one-and-a-half-minutes difference from each other. It is a lovely piece, but I guess I am just not that dedicated. The other work is rather mistitled, for I don't catch any capriciousness from it, instead it is of a similar weight and bearing as the Preludio.
In any case, the Welsh National Opera Orchestra sounds robust and leans into Puccini's brand of Romanticism. Carlo Rizzi is no stranger to Italian opera, and this is obviously a passion project for the conductor.
Listen on YouTube
Works
Madame Butterfly: Suite (17.29)
Tosca: Suite (20.09)
Preludio Sinfonico (9.25)
Preludio Sinfonico - Original (11.10)
Capriccio Sinfonico (12.11)
Performers
Welsh National Opera Orchestra
Carlo Rizzi, conductor
Label: Signum
Year: 2024
Total Timing: 70.00
Well played by Wales & Co.
If you have a special relationship with Puccini's operas, you may not be happy with Rizzi's orchestral arrangements, but you should avoid bleeding chunks of operas anyways.
The early, lightweight pairings are lovely, if not reaching great heights with this listener.
Find more Puccini recordings HERE!
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