Giuseppe Sinico 'Marinella'

[Alan Howe]

Does anyone know this 1861 opera by Giuseppe Sinico (1836-1907)?>>
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sinico-Friuli-Venezia-Giulia-Chorus/dp/B00IXEO8BW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478882979&sr=8-1&keywords=sinico+marinella

[mikehopf]

I got this CD set when it first came out a couple of years ago. It is a  hugely enjoyable opera, jam packed full of good , if somewhat " naif" , melodies in the bel canto mode with distinct Verdian  allusions.

The recording is actually a " cartone" - a sort of preliminary sketch - which , as the notes say " will have to suffice until a full blown theatrical edition comes along".

Interestingly, there is a connection between this opera and "Il Trittico" by Illersberg ( available on youtube ). in the fact that both are set in Trieste.

Talking of Illersberg, his first symphony is also on youtube. I found it quite enjoyable with rather simplistic " ear-worm" themes and even shades of  Strauss and Brahms.

Unfortunately, it is rather an old recording - from the 1920s or 30s, I'd guess.

[mikehopf]

BTW, Sinico was only 18 years old when he wrote " Marinella".

He wrote many more successful operas, such as " Alessandro Stradella"  & " Spartaco" which tended to be overshadowed by Verdi premieres.

Incidentally, the booklet refers to some contemporary operas described as" much rubbish, such as I Goti  by Stefano Gobatti  from Bologna" !

Now, there's an idea for a new thread: " Rubbish Operas".

[Mark Thomas]

I agree with your assessment, Mike. Maybe Donizetti on a poor day would be the closest comparison. That said, it's enjoyable, undemanding listening.

[Alan Howe]

Don't think I'll go for this, then...