WOLF-FERRARI: Susanna’s Secret (Il segreto di Susanna); Serenata, 5 songs for baritone – Dora Rodrigues (Susanna)/ Marc Canturri (Count Gil and baritone on the songs)/ Loic Varraut (Sante)/ Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra/ Vasily Petrenko – Avie 2193, 56:57 [Distr. by Allegro] ****:
This is essentially an opera about jealousy, making up, fighting, and making up again so I won’t go into specifics about the simple plot. But if you ever wondered if a two-person (with actor) opera could make a good dramatic/comic evening, look no further. But the insipid plot is only a vehicle for some gloriously tuneful music. Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari (1876-1948), a native Venetian, found more success in Munich than he did in Italy. His music is neo-classical in the very early stages of that term, finding inspiration in Pergolesi and Rossini though he loved Verdi and Wagner. But during his lifetime his style, though a little precious to some, actually predated what would become more popular about 15 years later.
This production is sumptuously recorded by Avie, employing two young singers who each have the measure of Wolf-Ferrari’s tricky and up-tempo score. When the big tunes hit they milk them for all they are worth in this live recording. I would be thrilled to hear this on a double or triple bill sometime, and it offers a chance for not only exceptional singing but lots of motion in acting as well. The Royal Liverpool Orchestra plays with passion and sweltering heat under Vasily Petrenko. This might not be a first choice when considering an opera purchase, but for those wanting something off the beaten path that will provide and hour of quality enjoyment, this is your ticket. The addition of the lovely Serenata for baritone voice and piano only adds to the attraction. [Wait…Isn’t anyone curious what Susanna’s secret is? She smokes…Ed.]
— Steven Ritter
