Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘Luisa Miller’ from Vienna State Opera

This Saturday at 1 p.m., WHRO-FM is back at the Vienna State Opera in Austria to present Verdi’s intimate family drama “Luisa Miller.”
Exploring love, political power, betrayal and sacrifice, this opera’s lyrical music is of remarkable emotional intensity. Premiered in Naples in 1849, “Luisa Miller” follows Luisa, a young village girl in love with Rodolfo, the son of the powerful Count Walter. Their love is destroyed by social conventions and political intrigue, orchestrated by the sinister Wurm, leading to a tragic ending in which love survives only through sacrifice. American soprano Nadine Sierra brings her radiant, expressive artistry to the role of Luisa, capturing both her innocence and emotional strength. Freddie De Tommaso sings Rodolfo with his warm, Italianate tenor, ideally suited to the character's youthful passion. Roberto Tagliavini lends his dark, authoritative bass to the ruthless Count Walter, while Marko Mimica's imposing bass makes Wurm a chilling villain. Also featured are baritone George Petean and mezzo-soprano Daria Sushkova. Italian conductor Michele Mariotti leads the Vienna State Opera Orchestra and Chorus with elegance and dramatic intensity, highlighting the lyrical beauty of the piece while maintaining its powerful theatrical momentum.
This week with Verdi's “Luisa Miller,” enjoy soaring melodies, dramatic ensembles and deeply expressive orchestration, revealing the musical maturity that would define the composer’s greatest operas.Tune in to WHRO-FM 90.3, or listen online via our Media Player, this Saturday at 1:00 p.m.