It was a bold move by 21-year-old Umberto Giordano to enter 1888's one-act opera competition, won by Mascagni's Cavalleria Rusticana. Marina, set in Montenegro during an unspecified conflict with Serbia, came sixth, the score languishing until 2026, when it premiered at Milan's Teatro dal Verme. This recording reveals a composer with a keen ear for musical colour.

When Marina, a Montenegrin, takes in Giorgio, a wounded Serb, the inevitable conflict with her family precipitates a typical verismo catastrophe. After a militaristic opening, Marina takes centre stage with an aching ballad. Her scene with the injured Giorgi follows abruptly, redeemed by Giordano's knack for trotting out appealing melodies. It's not the most sophisticated writing but it comes straight from the heart.

There's a drinking song, a patriotic Montenegrin ditty and a brief aria for Giogio, the show's hit.

Eleanora Burratto is treasurable as Marina, her bright soprano thrilling at the top. As Giorgio, Freddie De Tommaso proves a verismo hero. The Orchestra i Pomeriggi Musicali is supple and secure under the idiomatic baton of Vincenzo Milletarì.