A new operatic world
‘Although resounding flops are rare at the Opéra, successes as brilliant as that of La Vestale are rarer still.’ It was in these flattering terms that Le Publiciste dated 17 December 1807 began its review of the first night of Spontini’s opera, which had taken place two days earlier on the stage of the Académie Impériale de Musique. Observers had anticipated a significant event even before the curtain rose, for most operas of the time were underpinned by a strong political message associated with Napoleon’s expansionist strategy. The Empress Joséphine attended the performance, even though her husband had been off at the wars for several weeks.
CD-Book Gaspare Spontini. La Vestale (2023). Translation: Charles Johnston.
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publication date : 12/01/24