Barbican Hall, Wednesday 11 May 2016

It is not so much the opportunity to rediscover a forgotten masterpiece as the indication of just where later genius evolved from that makes Opera Rara events so special. Adelson e Salvini was Bellini’s first opera, written when he was 24, and if it does not have the heroic romanticism of later works it certainly has a lyrical flair across many extended passages and a comic creation which he never again exceeded.

Enea Scala made a finely tormented Salvini, who is able to literally hit all the high notes while convincing us of his emotional turmoil. If Daniela Barcellona’s Nelly did not seem to have quite the same level of intensity her voice was an elegant foil to those around her. Rodion Pogossov was a dastardly Struley, with just enough wit to keep from over-exageration, but it was the splendid comic timing of Maurizio Muraro as Bonifacio which really galvanised the evening. Here Bellini leans heavily on Rossini, but without any sense of plagiarism. It is simply he has learnt from the master how to spin a comic line. It is a pity that, unlike Donizetti, he did not develop this in later years as he seemed to have a real flair for comedy.

Daniele Rustioni conducted the BBC Symphony Orchestra with flair and the men of the chorus from Opera Rara added enthusiasm to the celebratory scenes.

Though this was a concert performance, Kenneth Richardson directed the movement with grace and the lighting helped the atmosphere. As usual though the light in the auditorium was so low it was impossible to read the programme or take notes.

The next offering from Opera Rara is Rossini’s Semiramide during the Proms this summer.