This recording, evidently a radio broadcast of a concert performance, has audience applause but no sound of stage motion and all soloists forward and in good balance with the orchestra. Conductor Gianfranco Masini, a proponent of the bel canto revival, keeps the numbers moving briskly, at times uncomfortably like the comic operas that made the composer’s reputation. Unlike the 1957 recording, the work is performed complete, though there is a missing section toward the end of Act 2 (all recitative), probably to allow a reel change. The participants sound well rehearsed and eager to give this rare opera a proper hearing. It is, however, a deeply flawed work, saddled by a poor libretto and too many tenors. Of the three, Bruce Brewer, an American who specialized in high-flying florid roles, makes the most impact as Roderigo, the character enacting Cassio’s role as jealousy-starter. His lighter voice does stand out against the others, and he shows coloratura flair, especially in his Act 2 display aria. Rossini gives Iago little to sing, but Briton Philip Langridge, later distinguished for his work in Britten’s operas, does what he can do with the “temptation” scene with Otello. Orlando Montez, a provincial vocalist, shows nice tone but not much dramatic sense and only suggests his coloratura. Spanish mezzo Isabel Garcisanz does a better job with Desdemona’s music, coaxing soft harmonies out of her sad songs and powering through ensembles with icy power. Baritone Robert Amis El Hage is remarkably sympathetic in the modest role of Desdemona’s xenophobic father. The uncredited artist who sings Emilia is excellent, particularly in the Act 1 duet for the two mezzos. The Act 3 Gondolier, also uncredited, also is quite good, and the concert setting allows his striking “offstage” lament to be heard clearly. On the whole, this is a good document of a seldom heard work. But truth to say Rossini developed better dramatic sense later on, and “La Donna del Lago” and “Semiramide” are more rewarding serious operas of his to explore.

Registrazione molto rara e di suono stupendo. Un Bruce Brewer in forma smagliante che ci consegna un Rodrigo veramente rossiniano (nel 1975). Consigliatissima agli amanti di Rossini.

Not even a word about Isabel Garcisanz? This spanish born mezzo is more than an honorable coloratura: she is an exquisite musician, technicaly of very high level. Nowadays, she still is a famous teacher in Paris.

The name of the tenor singing the title role is Orlando Montez. Also, bass Robert Amis el Hage sings Elmiro.