I Lituani

In 2020, the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra and the Kaunas State Choir under the direction of Modestas Pitrenas came together in the National Philharmonic Hall in Vilnius for a remarkable recording of Amilcare Ponchielli's opera "I Lituani". This project marks the first professional recording of this work and highlights Ponchielli's important contribution to 19th-century Italian opera while simultaneously establishing a deep connection with Lithuanian heritage. The opera is inspired by the poem "Konrad Wallenrod" by Adam Mickiewicz and tells the story of medieval Lithuania's resistance against the German Order and explores themes such as freedom, national identity and sacrifice. Ponchielli's versatile orchestration and Ghislanzoni's powerful libretto blend together into an impressive musical narrative, which is now captured in this new recording with lively vocal performances and masterful orchestration. "I Lituani" premiered at La Scala in Milan in 1874 and has long been known for its beautiful melodies and emotional depth. This recording revives an important, often overlooked masterwork of Italian opera and offers a new perspective on Ponchielli's profound musical and dramatic vision.