Opera Rara, BBC Symphony Orchestra

In the BBC Symphony Orchestra's second project with Opera Rara this season, they turn to Bellini’s very first opera with an all-star cast.

Daniele Rustoni, following his acclaimed Donizetti triology at Welsh National Opera, conducts the work, written while Bellini was still a student in Naples. Adelson e Salvini follows the fortunes of an Italian in Ireland, who falls in love with the eponymous Adelson’s fiancée Nelly. The work made such an impact that it led to his first professional commission. Though its comic role Bonifacio is Rossinian, the ardent lyrical writing is pure Bellini.