Album Review: "I Viaggi di Faustina – Faustina Bordoni’s Journeys To Naples"
If you’re into classical music, especially the kind that feels like stepping into an 18th-century opera house, then I Viaggi di Faustina is a gem you need to hear. Released in 2013 by Glossa (out of Austria, no less), this album dives deep into Baroque and opera styles with some serious flair. It’s led by soprano Roberta Invernizzi, conductor Antonio Florio, and his ensemble I Turchini. Together, they bring forgotten masterpieces back to life—composers like Nicola Porpora, Leonardo Vinci, and Francesco Mancini get their moment in the spotlight here.
Let me cut to the chase: this isn’t just another fancy-schmancy collection of old tunes. The album tells the story of Faustina Bordoni, a legendary opera singer from centuries ago who traveled Europe wowing audiences. Each track feels like a snapshot of her journey, full of drama, passion, and those big emotions only Baroque music can deliver.
Now, let’s zoom in on two tracks that stuck with me:
First up is “Non Ti Minaccio Sdegno.” Oh man, this one hits hard. Composed by Nicola Porpora, it opens with Roberta Invernizzi’s voice soaring above everything else—clear, powerful, but also kinda vulnerable. You don’t need to understand Italian to feel what she’s singing about; there’s this mix of defiance and heartbreak that grabs you right away. The strings underneath are subtle but add so much tension—it’s like watching someone argue with fate itself. Honestly, every time I listen to it, I imagine Faustina standing center stage, owning the room without breaking a sweat. Total goosebump material.
Then there’s “Sinfonia (Allegro – Andante staccato – Allegro)” by Leonardo Vinci. This instrumental piece feels like a little adventure packed into three movements. It starts fast and lively, slows down for a dreamy middle section, and then rockets back to high energy. The violins really shine here—they’re playful, almost teasing, while the harpsichord adds these delicate touches that make you lean in closer. I kept replaying this one because it’s impossible not to smile at how alive it sounds. It’s like the musicians are having fun together, and that joy sneaks through the speakers.
The whole production has this warm, intimate vibe thanks to engineer Rino Trasi and producer Carlos Céster. Even though it was recorded in modern times, it doesn’t lose that authentic, candlelit-concert feel. Special shoutout to Tommaso Rossi on recorder—he brings such personality to the woodwinds—and Eva Sola’s cello lines? Pure magic.
Here’s the thing: listening to I Viaggi di Faustina made me realize how timeless good storytelling is. Whether it’s 1720 or 2023, people still connect with raw emotion wrapped in beautiful melodies. Plus, hearing all these composers’ names reminded me how many incredible artists we’ve forgotten over the years. Makes you wonder who else history left behind!
So yeah, if you’re looking for something fresh yet deeply rooted in tradition, give this album a spin. Just be warned—you might find yourself daydreaming about traveling to Naples yourself… or at least wishing you could hang out with Faustina Bordoni. She sounds like the ultimate diva crush!
