Description:

I am convinced that Edgar would be in the standard repertoire of opera companies if it weren’t for one glaring flaw. The libretto is absolute gibberish. The story is an Italian Tannhäuser of sorts about a man who has to choose between virtue and sexual desire. Despite the ham-fisted story, Puccini demonstrates a very advanced understanding of orchestration, ambiance and, of course, melody. Musically this score seems the work of a seasoned opera composer and not a relative newcomer. British soprano Pauline Tinsley is radiant as Fidelia. The sound is good.

OD 10922-2