Journey to Italy

A dreamlike, theatrical, luminous and whimsical vision of Italy runs through the entire evening. In his Le Carnaval romain overture, Hector Berlioz captures its fever, brilliance and popular exuberance in a dazzlingly dramatic score that unfolds like a true operatic scene. With Harold en Italie, inspired as much by Lord Byron as by memories of Italy itself, Berlioz creates a singular work poised between symphony and narrative poem. Lise Berthaud’s viola becomes the voice of a melancholy wanderer, detached from the world’s turmoil and yet swept up in it. In the second half, La Boutique fantasque by Ottorino Respighi, based on themes by Gioachino Rossini, offers a sparkling counterpoint of charm, humour and virtuosity. An entire theatre of objects, silhouettes and movement springs to life in its brilliant orchestration. From reverie to celebration, from inward wandering to ballet, this concert conjures up an Italy of sensations, masks and colour.

Opéra national de Nancy-Lorraine Orchestra

Director
Barbara Dragan

Alto
Lise Berthaud