Olimpie was described by Hector Berlioz as a “sublime work” and Spontini himself viewed it as his best composition. When it was premiered in Paris, however, it gathered no interest. The work is based on a lesser-known play by Voltaire and was considered out of fashion before it even reached the stage in 1819. In Berlin two years later, in a translated and happier version modified by E.T.A. Hoffmann, Olimpie was more of a success.
Back in Parisian venues in 1826, the piece was rarely played, which Berlioz regretted. It occasionally made it to Germany, but was eventually forgotten until its rediscovery in the 1950’s as an Italian version performed by La Tebaldi in Florence. Olimpie is not often included in operas’ repertoires, but nevertheless, with its visuals and refined language, it features many magnificent moments and offers a plethora of staging opportunities.
The original 1819 musical score has disappeared. Jérémie Rohrer is presenting instead the 1826 version of the score prepared by Federico Agostinelli with various printed sources as well as an autographed manuscript. The album follows this version with the exception of two cuts during Acts I and III.
The recording is meticulous and benefits from the splendid acoustic of the Philharmonie de Paris. Recorded before the concert given at the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, it features a set of excellent soloists led by Jérémie Rohrer’s imagination and energy. A perfect resurrection and a gift from the indispensable Bru Zane Foundation in Venice. © François Hudry/Qobuz