Nabucco Overture

Verdis third opera, Nabucco, was performed for the first time March 9, 1842. For Verdi, it meant his breakthrough as an opera composer. It was a great success, especially the choir 'Va, pensiero' is still one of the most well-known classical melodies world wide. This melody is also part of the overture, an often programmed piece in classical repertoire. The overture starts with a four-voice trombone and tuba choir, followed by a dramatic outburst of the entire orchestra. The theme that follows is mysterious and agited. After the andantino passage which features 'Va, pensiero', the overture spins into a festive and exciting finale, with fireworks at the end. This piece has been a public favourite for almost two centuries.