Verdi’s I Lombardi alla prima crociata (1843) is one of his least known operas, offering effective choral scenes and a wealth of catchy melodies. Moreover, in 1847 the composer considered I Lombardi worthy to rework it for Paris into a Grand Opera according to French taste, which was even translated back into Italian because of its great success.

The ‘Lombards’, written immediately after Nabucco, now live a shadowy existence even among Verdi’s early operas. Marcus Bosch once again offers us the opportunity to revise many prejudices against Verdi’s early works. Performed by Cappella Aquileia and the Czech Philharmonic Choir Brno, conducted by Marcus Bosch, this is a highly recommended recording.

Cast:
- Giselda: Ania Jeruc
- Pagano: Pavel Kudinov
- Oronte: Marian Talaba
- Arvino: Leon de la Guardia
- Viclinda: Anna Werle
- Pirro: Daniel Dropulja
- Prior of Milan: Christoph Wittmann
- Acciano: Andrew Nolen
- Sofia: Kate Allen

Live recording