13 Comments

This is one of my favourites. I did find a version recorded at the Verona Arena on 24/52015. Italy entered WW1 on 23/5/1915 & this recording had 4600 Choristers from all over Italy perform it commeroating the 100 year anniversary.

It doesnt ahve the best sound quality but more than makes up for that with the raw emotion of Italy and its WW1 history. The white war, (as it was called) was vicious and there is immense emoition in the performance. Made my neck tingle and I shed a few tears.

Expand full comment

Is it on YouTube, Graham? If yes please share the link with us! I just found this one but I don't think it's it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFsljT1362s

As I was digging, I also found this full performance from Verona in 1981

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VwVtPlIO5L8&t=6978s

Expand full comment

Hi

Yes i think this is the correct link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4T2rlNXyJ8

best wishes

Expand full comment

So special!

Expand full comment

I wish I could have read this column several years ago, before my wife and I saw Nabucco in Bologna, Italy. At the end of "Va, pensiero" someone in the audience enthusiastically shouted, "Viva Italia!" Hearing loud commentary from Italian audiences isn't the biggest surprise you can have, but those particular words were surprising. When we later learned the historical importance of that chorus, it became understandable. I don't think we can ever improve on the experience from that particular performance.

Expand full comment

ahhhhhhhhhhhh thank you for sharing ✨✨✨

Expand full comment

When I was at the Casa Verdi in Milan in 2014, I looked upon the composer’s tomb, and imagined the funeral ceremonies preceding the burial, including Toscanini conducting Va, pensiero. I also visited the Toscanini/Horowitz tomb elsewhere in Milan.

Expand full comment

Wonderful memory ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Expand full comment

The Casa Verdi had an excellent public relations director who spoke fluent English, gave me an hour of her time, and let me look at some Verdi artifacts, and took me around the premises, including the residential area.

Expand full comment

Its difficult to listen to this without being moved. I especially enjoyed the At Home version - Va pensiero - wonderful.

Expand full comment

🥂🥂

Expand full comment

Its difficult to listen to this without being moved. I especially enjoyed the At Home version - Va Pensiero - wonderful

Expand full comment

A firm favourite of mine thanks

Expand full comment