Album Review: Ernani by RCA Italiana Opera Orchestra and Chorus
If you’re a fan of classical music with an opera twist, Ernani is one to check out. This album brings together the lush sounds of the RCA Italiana Opera Orchestra and Chorus under the baton of conductor Thomas Schippers. It’s based on Victor Hugo’s dramatic play Hernani, so right off the bat, you know it’s gonna be intense. The record was released in the US via Armed Forces Radio & Television Service Station Library, which gives it this cool mid-century vibe.
Now, let me break down what makes this album stick in your head. First up, there’s Act I; Scene 2 (Concluded). Man, this track hits hard. You’ve got Fernando Iacopucci’s tenor vocals soaring over the orchestra like he’s trying to reach heaven itself. His voice has this raw power that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. Paired with Hartje Mueller’s bass vocals—deep, rich, almost haunting—it feels like they’re trading punches in a duel of emotions. That back-and-forth energy? Totally unforgettable.
Then there’s Act II - A Magnificent Hall In The Castle. This piece feels like stepping into another world. The orchestration here is just ridiculous—in the best way possible. Strings swell, brass roars, and the choir adds layers of drama that make you feel like you’re sneaking around some ancient castle at midnight. Every note builds tension until you’re practically sitting on the edge of your seat waiting for something big to happen. Spoiler alert: it does.
What stands out about Ernani isn’t just its technical brilliance but how alive it feels. Even though it’s rooted in a centuries-old story, the performances breathe fire into every scene. Sure, if you’re not into operatic singing, some parts might feel a little over-the-top. But honestly? That’s kinda the point. Opera isn’t supposed to be subtle—it’s supposed to hit you square in the chest and leave you breathless.
One thing I didn’t expect? How much these tracks made me want to dig deeper into Victor Hugo’s original work. Listening to this album felt like catching glimpses of a larger-than-life tale, enough to spark curiosity without giving everything away. And maybe that’s the magic of opera—it leaves room for imagination even as it overwhelms you with sound.
So yeah, give Ernani a spin if you’re looking for something grand, emotional, and unapologetically bold. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself daydreaming about castles and duels afterward.
