With a recent performance of the Requiem still ringing in the ears it comes as a shock (albeit a pleasantly fascinating one) to hear Verdi’s rather disjointed initial thoughts for the piece, as composed in 1868 for the collaborative Mass in memory of Rossini. The absence of the expected “Dies irae” bass drum thwacks reduces the dramatic impact somewhat, though Verdi’s contrapuntal acrobatics in the “Libera me” fugue continue to delight and amaze, and his orchestration fizzes with its characterful vigour and colourfulness. Although Noseda is almost a minute slower than Chailly in his premiere recording, this performance lacks nothing in terms of forward momentum or choral declamation. The only negative is the soprano soloist Barbara Frittoli, who has occasional intonation issues, not helped by her “variable pitch” vibrato.

Francesco Meli, on the other hand, is in magnificent voice, giving an electrifying account of the Hymn of the Nations, a highly enjoyable novelty which opens this assorted disc. It was composed for the 1862 International Exhibition in London and Verdi works his usual magic, managing to overlay God Save the Queen with La Marseillaise as well as incorporating the Italian national anthem.

The Turin chorus gives an idiomatic and highly satisfying performance of the taxing Four Sacred Pieces. Since its members are spread widely across the sound stage they lack a little clarity of diction but one cannot fault their dynamic range, especially in the hushed opening of the Te Deum. Their orchestral colleagues provide opulent and exhilarating support throughout this varied and well-balanced programme.