Puccini: Arias

1. Madama Butterfly (Madame Butterfly), opera Un bel Dí, Vedremo
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
2. Manon Lescaut, opera In Quelle Trine Morbide
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
3. Gianni Schicchi, opera O Mio Babbino Caro
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
4. Tosca, opera Vissi D'Arte
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
5. Turandot, opera Tu Che Di Gel Sei Cinta
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
6. Le villi, opera Se Come Voi Piccina
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
7. La bohème, opera Donde Lieta
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
8. La Rondine (The Swallow), opera Chi Bel Sogno Di Doretta
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
9. Turandot, opera In Questa Reggia
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Eva Marton
   
   
10. La bohème, opera Quando M'en Vo'Soletta
    Composed by Giacomo Puccini
    Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
    with Eva Marton
    
    
11. Suor Angelica, opera Senza Mamma, O Bimbo, Tu Sei Morto
    Composed by Giacomo Puccini
    Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
    with Eva Marton
    
    
12. La bohème, opera Mi Chiamano Mimi
    Composed by Giacomo Puccini
    Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
    with Eva Marton
    
    
13. Madama Butterfly (Madame Butterfly), opera Tu, Tu, Piccolo Iddio
    Composed by Giacomo Puccini
    Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
    with Eva Marton
    
    
14. Manon Lescaut, opera Sola, Perduta, Abbandonata
    Composed by Giacomo Puccini
    Performed by Munich Radio Orchestra
    with Eva Marton
    
    

Puccini: Arias,Giacomo Puccini,Münchner Rundfunkorchester,Eva Marton,Sony,Classical,Classical Music,Italian 20th/21st Century Opera,Italian Romantic Opera,Opera,Opera / Operetta / Oratorio,Opera/Operetta Collections

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Average customer rating: The End of the Big Voice? Fla Gator Lady 20 Great Tenor Arias Plesantly surprised... Absolutely Agree About Corelli

Nessun Dorma ~ 20 Great Tenor Arias / Pavarotti, Carreras, Domingo, Bergonzi, Aragall, Björling, Di Stefano, Kollo, Corelli, Del Monaco... Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Flotow | Flotow, Friedrich von | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Leoncavallo | Leoncavallo, Ruggiero | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Ponchielli | Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Paul Potts [United Kingdom]: One Chance The Most Famous Opera Duets The Most Famous Opera Arias The #1 Opera Album The Best of Italian Opera ASIN: B000007OTX Release Date: 1998-06-09

Tracks:

1. La Boheme: Che gelida manina
2. Manon Lescaut: Donna non vidi mai
3. Carmen Bizet: La fleur que tu m'avais jetee (Flower Song)
4. Luisa Miller: O! fede negar potessi .. Quando le sere al placido
5. La Traviata: Lunge da lei ... De' miei bollenti spiriti
6. Martha: M'appari
7. Giordano: Amor ti vieta
8. L'Africaine: Mi batte il cuor .. O paradiso
9. La Favorita: Favorita del re . . . Spirto gentil
10. Werther: 'Pourquoi me reveiller'
11. Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: 'Morgenlich leuchtend in rosigem Schein'
12. Les Contes d'Hoffmann: O Dieu! De quelle ivresse
13. TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle
14. Pagliacci: Recitar! ... Vesti la giubba
15. Il Trovatore: Di quella pira
16. Aida: Se quel guerrier .. Celeste Aida
17. TOSCA: Recondita armonia
18. L'Elisir d'Amore: Una furtiva lagrima
19. La Gioconda: Cielo e mar!
20. Turandot: Nessun dorma

Customer Reviews:

The End of the Big Voice?.......2007-04-16

This CD, which is truly fine overall, reminds me of Marilyn Horne's lament that we have probably seen the end of the big voice and it makes me sad. I agree with the reviewer who refers to "microphonies". And more justice could be done to Bjorling's voice with a better transfer. But at some point, music becomes a matter of taste and I prefers singers who have the instrument and the support and the training, whether formal or not, to just let fly and take a chance on making a mistake. Domingo can be wonderful and so can his musicianship but he tends to be so stiff. I have to wonder at the virulence and asperity with which some people go after Pavarotti. It's true that late in his career he made some questionable recordings but the answer to that is simple: don't buy them. At his best, he belongs for all time in the top echelon of tenors. I love this CD and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys great (big) voices.

Fla Gator Lady.......2007-01-12

Highly recommend this CD with these beloved arias of the greatest tenors in opera. I have owned this CD for a couple of years and purchased another for a friend who always requests that I play it ... perfect for listening in the car, dinner, bridge games, relaxation ... just so perfect. You won't be disappointed in this one.

20 Great Tenor Arias.......2007-01-09

A great disc,combination of the greatest tenors of the 20th century and some of the most beautiful music ever written in any century,a must addition to any opera lovers collection.

Plesantly surprised..........2006-01-14

I don't remember how I found this CD the other day surfing through the "Amazon" such as it is, but I did. I listened to a few clips provided & on the strength of that, I purchased this CD.

First it is a great buy. A booklet with pictures of each tenor, a small bio, the year recorded and TRANSLATIONS of each aria are provided. This is really nice. It seems more & more that translations are being left out. Being a former opera singer, I may know most of the words, but sometimes it's just nice to read along (sometimes it's just nice to listen too).

Being on the Decca label, there is admittedly quite a few Pavarotti selections. Out of 20 selections, he has 6 of them. But I love Pavarotti, so this is no problem for me. These are all early recordings & his voice is magnificent! Being a singer, I still marvel at his ability to sing "All'armi!" on a high D and still say the 2nd syllable "mi" on such a note! WOW. There is also of course his very sweet, impassioned and lyrical turn as Rodolfo in "La Boheme" as well as the lesser known (although I still have it on casette) "La Favorita" which has a particularly high tessitura.

Also featured are a young Plácido Domingo singing a VERY nice "Flower song/ La fleur que tu m'avais jetée" from Carmen. He usually sounds too pushed for me on the top notes (as one might expect from a Pavarotti fan, I like free top notes) but in this recording he is pretty darn fabulous. He also sings an aria from "Tales of Hoffman/Les Contes d'Hoffman" and I have always felt that he, like Neil Schicoff, were well suited to this role.

Lamentably there are only one selection each from Carreras, Correlli, Monaco, Aragall & Kollo. Especial kudos to the young recording they feature for Aragall. He had a very free and nice high tenor well suited to Verdi. Of course as his career went forward with the natural darkening of his voice and the "heavier" roles, he did start to develop a wobble. But this recording is before that. His top, his phrasing are all beautifully done in his featured aria from "La Traviata."
Mario del Monaco's "E lucevan le stelle" is hauntingly beautiful and has such a wonderful pianissimo in it that it makes you just want to gasp for beauty's sake. I now know every tenor I've heard sing this aria was trying to emulate what he did.

This is a great CD because it does bring together on one CD some of the greatest singers of the 20th/21st century. Bergonzi, di Stefano, Björling, in addition to the previously mentioned artists is quite an impressive collection. I'm sure there's only one of each for Carreras, Aragall (I believe they are formerly EMI/Angel artists) and perhaps some of the others because they are "imported" from another label. There's so much Pavarotti on this CD because he IS a Decca artist.

A highly recommended CD, affordable, not the usually obscure and unpolished artists that are sometimes found on compilations. Plus acutal linear notes and translations. Nicely done, Decca!!!

Absolutely Agree About Corelli.......2005-05-27

Franco Corelli's "Nessun Dorma" is still the best of them all - clear, passionate, and exciting. (And those final two notes...! Gives me chills just to think of it.) I was fortunate enough to see him live in both "Turandot" and "Romeo and Juliet" a year before his retirement, and he was still a Calaf and a Romeo to die for... as, of course, Liu and Juliet did! As it is, I tend to buy compilations depending on how much Corelli they include - though Bjorling is a strong second, and I have happy memories of Domingo. Long live the Golden Age of Operatic Tenors!

Average customer rating: Great for kids! Mediocre Sound Quality I was pleased The Most Famous Opera Arias Okay But.... - a review of "The Most Famous Opera Arias"

The Most Famous Opera Arias Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Delibes, Léo | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gluck | Gluck, Christoph W. | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Most Famous Opera Duets The Best of Italian Opera The #1 Opera Album The Best Opera Album in the World...Ever! Nessun Dorma ~ 20 Great Tenor Arias / Pavarotti, Carreras, Domingo, Bergonzi, Aragall, Björling, Di Stefano, Kollo, Corelli, Del Monaco... ASIN: B000002SCE Release Date: 1994-07-19

Tracks:

1. Rigoletto: Act I - Caro nome
2. Rigoletto: Act III - La donna e mobile
3. Gianni Schicchi: O mio babbino caro
4. Carmen: Act I - Habanera: La voila...L'amour est oiseau rebelle
5. Orfeo ed Euridice: Act III - Che faro senz Euridice
6. Madama Butterfly: Act III - Un bel di, vedremo
7. Romeo et Juliette: Act I - Ah! je veux vivre
8. Le nozze di Figaro: Act II - Voi che sapete che cosa e amor
9. Samson et Dalila: Act II - Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voix
10. Tosca:: Act II - Vissi d'arte, vissi d'amore
11. Aida: Act I-Celeste Aida
12. Il Barbiere Di Siviglia: Act I-Una voce poco fa
13. Lakme: Act II - Ou va la jeune indoue?
14. La Wally: Act I - Ebben? Ne andro lontano
15. La Boheme: Act I - Che gelida manina
16. Die Zauberflote: Act II-Die Holle Rache kocht in meinem Herzen

Customer Reviews:

Great for kids!.......2007-06-27

I'm generally not a fan of music "samplers," but opera can be tough to introduce to children. And hey--even adults played cards, ate, and talked through the recitative sections of the early operas while they waited for the next aria! So I feel that getting kids hooked on opera through great arias probably can't hurt (the next 10 years or so will determine whether I'm right or not). My 4-year-old loves this CD; it's a delight to watch her imitate Anna Moffo (the sincerest form of flattery, for sure). Highly recommended resource for introducing young kids to opera. More top picks: Siberell's Bravo! Brava! A Night at the Opera, and the Black Dog Opera Library CDs.

Mediocre Sound Quality.......2007-03-31

If you note the album was released in 1994, and includes selections from many years prior, you will understand that the quality of the sound engineering is not going to dazzle your ear.

It's a very nice collection to hum along to, but don't expect shivers down your spine as the sound quality is not sufficient to reproduce the dynamic range of these voices.

I was pleased.......2007-02-18

I am by no means an opera expert, but found this to be a wonderful CD. Along with the songs I already knew I liked (such as a song from Carmen,) I found many others I enjoyed. In fact, Samson et Dahlila turned out to be my favorite. If you are just getting started or at any point in your adventure of opera, I would recommend this one.

The Most Famous Opera Arias.......2007-01-05

I was completely surprised in the product as well as the time in which it was delivered.

I would not only refer this seller but I will come back myself.

Okay But.... - a review of "The Most Famous Opera Arias".......2006-08-18

My daughter (6 y.o.) and I like opera; but sitting for two hours to watch Turandot is just not within the realm of possibilities for my 4 year old son right now... so I was looking for an opera CD for the car. He will sit and listen to short arias.

This was the first we purchased and it is okay but not great.

Problem #1 - where is Wagner. No Wagner?
Problem#2 - Elena Obraztsova - she sounds like Carmen's grandmother. Rather matronly for a vixen (imho--lol)

Three Stars. [C+] Great Price and good sound quality for the car. The operatic styles of some of the performers are antiquated and frilly sounding, but I would probably buy this CD again.

Note: We purchased and really preferred "The # 1 Opera Album". It has more selections and better artists in our opinion. Also it's a two CD set. Just something to consider.

Average customer rating: Great to hear the Great Tenor A childhood memory Great collection.

The Legendary Enrico Caruso: 21 Favorite Arias Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Flotow | Flotow, Friedrich von | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Leoncavallo | Leoncavallo, Ruggiero | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Ponchielli | Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Caruso, Enrico | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Donizetti, Gaetano | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Giordano, Umberto | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Gounod, Charles | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Flotow, Friedrich von | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Handel, George Frideric | H to L | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Halevy, Fromental | H to L | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Meyerbeer, Giacomo | M to P | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Ponchielli, Amilcare | M to P | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Puccini, Giacomo | M to P | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Vocal Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | U to Z | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Flotow, Friedrich von | ( F ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Leoncavallo, Ruggiero | ( L ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Caruso, Enrico | ( C ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Match Point Italian Songs: The Digital Recordings Great Caruso The Very Best of Beniamino Gigli Artists Of The Century - Caruso, The Greatest Tenor In The World ASIN: B000003EOH Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Pagliacci: Vesti la giubba
2. TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle
3. Rigoletto: Questa o quella
4. Rigoletto: La donna e mobile
5. L'africana: O paradiso
6. La Juive: Rachel, quand du Seigneur
7. La Boheme: Che gelida manina
8. Aida: Se quel guerrier io fossi; Celeste Aida
9. Andrea Chenier: Come un bel di di maggio
10. La Favorita: Romanza: Spirto gentil, ne' sogni miei
11. La forza del destino: O tu che in seno agli angeli
12. Otello: Ora e per sempre addio
13. Les pecheurs de perles: Je crois entendre encore
14. La Gioconda: Cielo e mar!
15. Carmen: La fleur que tu m'avais jetee (Flower Song)
16. TOSCA: Recondita armonia
17. Faust: Salut, demeure chaste et pure
18. L'Elisir d'Amore: Una furtiva lagrima
19. Martha: M'appari tutt'amor
20. Serse: Ombra mai fu (Largo)
21. Il Trovatore: Di quella pira

Amazon.com

There's a plethora of single-disc Caruso collections, but this one's the preferred choice for opera fans who treasure this golden- voiced epitome of Golden Age singing. It's a Greatest Hits collection to beat all Greatest Hits collections. Selections span Caruso's career, from the lyric effusions of 1906-7 to the darker-voiced later recordings, including one of his last records, the 1920 La Juive aria, "Rachel, quand du Seigneur," which he invests with a heartbreaking poignancy that hasn't been bettered. Caruso shines brightest in the Italian repertory, capturing the pathos of Vesti la Giubba, the insouciance of the Duke's Rigoletto arias, and the hero's dilemma in Celeste Aida, among much else. But everything here is wonderful--great music, great singing. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Great to hear the Great Tenor.......2007-04-11

I am impressed how well these almost 100 year old recordings have been transfered to CD. Of course they aren't perfect but considering their age it is still a miracle. It is nice to hear Caruso in his prime and not on a scratchy vinyl. I would recommend this to any lover of Caruso's singing.

A childhood memory.......2006-05-28

I do not really know Opera. I am writing this review because I remember hearing Caruso's voice coming from a seventy- eight on an old Victor gramophone in my paternal grandparents house. The power and lyric quality of the voice struck me so strongly especially in 'Pagliacci'. The phrase has been with me, and comes back occasionally through all the years.
Caruso was then, and I believe still is considered at the very top of operatic singers. And it is a remarkable experience to hear so many years later , and in a stronger and clearer way sounds which one heard long ago in childhood, and have for years only lived in the mind.

Great collection........2000-11-04

This CD is an older RCA release, but still one of the best! A great introduction to Caruso.

Average customer rating: heywhattsamattayou full of passion and love Absolutely Beautiful! Where is Amore I?

Amore II ~ Great Italian Love Arias Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music National Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Paris Symphony Orchestra | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music National Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Paris Symphony Orchestra | ( P ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Amor--Opera's Great Love Songs The Most Famous Opera Arias The Best of Italian Opera The Most Famous Opera Duets Rapture: Opera's Most Heavenly Moments ASIN: B00004C4MX Release Date: 2000-02-01

Tracks:

1. Gianni Schicchi: O mio babbino caro
2. La rondine: Chi il bel sogno di Doretta
3. La Boheme: Quando m'en vo
4. La Boheme: Mi chiamano Mimi
5. La Boheme: Che gelida manina
6. TOSCA: Vissi d'arte
7. Madama Butterfly: Un bel di
8. Madama Butterfly: Bimba dagli occhi pieni di malia
9. Turandot: Tu, che di gel sei cinta
10. Rigoletto: La donna e mobile
11. Rigoletto: Caro nome
12. La Traviata: Lunge da lei...De miei bollenti spiriti...oh mio rimorso
13. Aida: Celeste Aida
14. L'Elisir d'Amore: Prendi, per me sei libero
15. L'Elisir d'Amore: Una furtiva lagrima
16. Don Pasquale: Quel guardo il cavaliere
17. Fedora: Amor ti vieta
18. Turandot: Nessun dorma

Customer Reviews:

heywhattsamattayou.......2007-06-12

i'm a tellin you..... if you dont a like a this music....well you musta been born with the stone for a heart...heh

full of passion and love.......2007-03-31

This CD is full of passion and love. Whenever I listen to it, I get the butterfly feeling in my stomach...must have CD!!!! I strongly recommend!

Absolutely Beautiful!.......2002-03-02

Two words describe the music found on this CD: ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! The beauty of the vocals and music combine to allow one to transcend from the daily grind to a world of beauty. Bravo!

Where is Amore I?.......2001-02-16

This CD is a selection of arias from Italian operas. Most of the time when you get a compilation like this, you feel lucky if you like 2/3 of the selections. In this case, whoever did the selecting did a great job, there isn't a clinker in the lot. About half of the arias are by Puccini, the rest are by Verdi, Donizetti, and Giordano. Singers include Kiri Te Kanawa, Luciano Pavarotti, Richard Tucker, and Andrea Rost. There is enough variety to keep the whole CD interesting, yet the mood is consistent throughout. The sound is generally quite good, and while I am not generally a fan of live recordings, the audience response in the performance by Pavarotti really does add excitement to the presentation. Given the title of this CD, I assumed this was the second in a series, and I liked it so much I went looking for the original. Unfortunately, I can find no other CD on the Sony label titled Amore - too bad.

Average customer rating: Very Bad Different is not always bad! Pay special attention to this new promise ! A tenor who wishes he were a baritone Finally, a SPINTO tenor!!!

Jose Cura - Puccini Arias / Domingo Giacomo Puccini , London Philharmonia Orchestra , Plácido Domingo , and Jose Cura Manufacturer: Erato ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Cura, José | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Tenors | Voices | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Artist Portrait Jose Cura Verdi Arias Anhelo: Argentinian Songs Verismo Boleros ASIN: B000005E5L Release Date: 1997-10-28

Tracks:

1. Turandot (Act III): Nessun dorma
2. Turandot (Act I): Non piangere Liu!
3. Gianni Schicchi: Avete torto! - Firenze ome un albero fiorito
4. Il Tabarro: Hai ben ragione
5. Il Tabarro: Io voglio la tua bocca - Folle di gelosia
6. La Rondine (Act I): Parigi! a cittei desideri
7. La Rondine (ActIII): Dimmi che vuoi seguirmi
8. La Fanciulla del West (Act II): Una parola sola - Or son sei mesi
9. La Fanciulla del West (Act III): Risparmiate lo scherno - Ch'ella mi creda
10. Madame Butterfly (Act I): Dipende dal grado di cottura - Amore o grillo
11. Madame Butterfly (Act III): Addio fiorito asil
12. Tosca (Act I): Recondita armonia
13. Tosca (Act III): E lucevan le stelle
14. La Boh (Act I): Che gelida manina
15. Manon Lescaut (Act I): Tra voi, belle
16. Manon Lescaut (Act I): Donna non vidi mai
17. Manon Lescaut (Act II): Ah, Manon mi tradisce
18. Manon Lescaut (Act III): Ah! non v'avvicinate! - No, pazzo son
19. Manon Lescaut (Act IV): Manon...senti, amor mio - Vedi, son io che piango
20. Edgar (Act II): Orgia, chimera dall'occhio vitreo
21. Le Villi (Act II): Ecco la casa - Torna ai felici di

Amazon.com essential recording

Good tenors are always in short supply, a particularly lamentable circumstance given the great demand for them in the operatic and symphonic repertoire. Thus, the advent of a good young tenor is always cause for rejoicing. A tenor of the caliber of Jose Cura--a composer, conductor and guitarist as well as a singer--is really good news. There is nothing wimpy about Cura's singing, nothing strained; he sings with baritonal beef and strong, chesty high notes. A protege of Placido Domingo, he shares some qualities with the older tenor, but is definitely an artist with something to say for himself. This is a career to watch. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Very Bad.......2007-03-29

First of all, his voice does not suit for Puccini(I do not know what is fitting for him). If you buy this cd, you may listen the worst "Non piangere liu" "E Lucevan Stella" etc. He can not bring a little emotion. But Puccini demands it.

Different is not always bad!.......2006-11-26

It's very interesting to read all the reviews smashing Jose Cura for his "baritone-like" voice and supposed stiff and unvaried interpretation. The first opera I ever saw was The Washington Opera's 1997 production of Samson et Dalila (I was 13) with Jose Cura and Denyce Graves. Immediately I was converted into an opera lover! (specifically an opera-goer-lover) I don't necessarily like listening to all opera, and a lot of singer's voices still annoy me, but Jose Cura's voice is different (the source of much of the controversy...). The richness and deep quality of his voice that so contrasts with most tenor's voices (which can be rather squeaky at times) is what attracts me. And you should see this man act! A refreshing experience against the stereotypical stiff opera singer standing in the middle of the stage bellowing his/her lungs out. So please, try to actually see the man before you form an unshakeable opinion. I think his voice alone is gorgeous (especially with Puccini's incomparable work!), but pared with his charisma and ability on stage, it's irresistable.

Pay special attention to this new promise !.......2006-06-30

A talented artist, a potent and polished voice emerges to satisfy the Opera lovers all over the world.

Jose Cura is nowadays, one the most prominent figures of the Bel Canto. His charismatic presence and his timber have deserved him the best praises all over the world.

In this opportunity we may listen him singing a selection of Puccini's Arias, accompanied by Placido Domingo with the Philharmonia orchestra, a magnificent occasion to enjoy his art and impeccable timber.

A tenor who wishes he were a baritone.......2005-12-14

I bought this CD because I love Puccini above all other composers, due to the sheer emotion that he could put into his music. I also wanted to hear Placido Domingo conduct and I'm always on the lookout for a good tenor. However, this is not the CD to buy if you're looking for a good tenor. I can't help but agree with the reviewer who gave only one star, at first Jose Cura sounds great. But after I really listened I had to change my opinion. Cura sings ridiculously heavy to be a tenor. If you listen to him with the mindset that this is a tenor it's really laughable how heavy and pressed his voice is. I was reminded of Placido Domingo (Ugh) or Franco Corelli who also depressed his larynx giving him a very baritonal sound but by the time he was in his forties, when most voices really blossom, his was declining do to the tremendous weight he sang with. Cura scoops up even to middle register notes because he is unable to start on the pitch, and has one tone to his voice (except when he goes bellow mezzo forte when he has almost no control) and very little in the way of vocal expression due to the restrictions this weight puts on the voice. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not usually an opera snob (I listen to and love Josh Groban, Russel Watson, and Andrea Bocelli), but Cura truly warranted a review. I gave it two stars because I didn't think Placido did a bad job at conducting (not the best by any means but certainly not bad) and despite everything I just said, I really like Cura's performance of Nessun Dorma (I don't get why it's weak).

Finally, a SPINTO tenor!!!.......2005-10-14

I am SO happy that there is finally a tenor out there with the vocal power to sing over a Puccini orchestra but still keep the lyricism for the upper register! If your preference is for a sweeter, lighter sound, check out recordings of Carlo Bergonzi and Roberto Alagna. This is a voice meant for singing over large orchestras with some "muscle" in the low register and the ability to make high notes soar. (It also doesn't hurt that Sr. Cura is as gorgeous as his voice! :) )

Average customer rating: The best opera album ever Beautiful Music, Nice price

Puccini: Great Opera Arias Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Sony | Computers Brands | Computers Features | Electronics | Desktops | Monitors | Networking | Notebooks Similar Items: The Ultimate Puccini Collection The Most Famous Opera Arias Puccini Without Words Puccini: Arias Nessun Dorma ~ 20 Great Tenor Arias / Pavarotti, Carreras, Domingo, Bergonzi, Aragall, Björling, Di Stefano, Kollo, Corelli, Del Monaco... ASIN: B00005YQLA Release Date: 2002-01-29

Tracks:

1. Gianni Schicchi: O mio babbino caro
2. Gianni Schicchi: Firenze e come un albero fiorito
3. La Rondine: Chi il bel sogno di Doretta
4. La Boheme: Si, mi chiamano Mimi
5. La Boheme: Quando m'en vo
6. Madama Butterfly: Un bel di vedremo
7. Madama Butterfly: The Flower Duet
8. Madama Butterfly: The Humming Chorus
9. Madama Butterfly: Tu? tu? Piccolo iddio
10. Tosca: Dammi i colori
11. Tosca: Vissi d'arte
12. Tosca: E lucevan le stelle
13. Turandot: Signore, ascolta!
14. Turandot: In questa reggia
15. Turandot: Nessun dorma
16. La Fanciulla Del West: Ch'ella mi creda libero e lontano
17. Suor Angelica: Senza mamma, o bimbo
18. Le Villi: Se come voi piccina io fossi
19. Manon Lescaut: In quelle trine morbide
20. Manon Lescaut: Sola, perduta, abbandonata

Customer Reviews:

The best opera album ever.......2007-01-26

I have listened this album almost every day for the past 4 years. For begginers and amateurs in this kind of music, the album rocks in every song with the exception of track 2 and 5.

Beautiful Music, Nice price.......2007-01-04

I purchased this CD for my daughter while searching specifically for arias. She was very pleased and I find myself enjoying it as well.
A wonderful collection for a terrific price, super fast shipping too- as always.

Average customer rating: Another supeb tenor. The one. A New Star voice Quite Good Promising debut by new lyric tenor

Italian Opera Arias Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Rolando Villazon - Gounod · Massenet Arias Rolando Villazon: Opera Recital Opera Recital [Includes Bonus DVD] Verdi: La Traviata Gitano ASIN: B00018TIOA Release Date: 2004-02-10

Tracks:

1. Lamento: E La Solita Storia
2. Recitativo E Romanza: Inosservato...Angelo Casto E Bel
3. Aria: Quanto E Bella
4. Aria: Una Furtiva Lagrima
5. Recitativo Ed Aria: Tombe Degli Avi Miei...Fra Poco
6. Aria: Il L'ho Perduta...Io La Vidi
7. Aria: Io L'ho Perduta...Io La Vidi
8. Aria: O Figli...Ah! La Paterna Mano
9. Scena Ed Aria: Ella Mi Fu Rapita...Parmi Veder
10. Canzone: La Donna E Mobile
11. Scena, Aria E Cabaletta: Lunge De Iei...De' Miei Bollenti...O Mio Rimorso
12. Aria: Che Gelida Manina
13. Aria: E Lucevan Le Stelle
14. Aria: Anche Tu Beppe Giungi...O Amore
15. Aria: Vergini, Muse...Quando Al Soave Anelito

Amazon.com

This is a glorious debut recital by a tenor, from whom, if he sings the right roles and keeps way from jet-setting and too much singing, might just be the lyrico-spinto tenor we've been waiting for. He has the class of Carlo Bergonzi and a ringing tone which is somewhere between Domingo's big, dark sound and Pavarotti's brightness; he sings with a true mezza voce (not a falsetto); he always obeys the composer's markings and delineates character. He seems incapable of vulgarity, refusing to gulp or sob when a musically expressive gesture will do. The opening aria here--from L'Arlesiana--is so beautifully, touchingly sung that it's a heartbreaker; he doesn't take the usually opted-for high note near the end, but never fear: in the Traviata and Bohème excerpts, Villazon offers big, whopping high Cs. This CD is a knockout; let's hope it's only the beginning of an illustrious career, both recorded and live. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Another supeb tenor........2007-05-13

We can be thankful that the old guard of the opera stage has been replaced by a trio of youthful artists. Villazon along with Calleja and Florez makes a great addition to the world of opera.

The one........2006-06-24

He's the real deal. Domingo-like burnished voice, great actor. Not just hype, he's genuinely worthy of all the praise.

A New Star voice.......2005-09-25

Rollando Villazon can't fail to impress a listener. He is an enourmous breath of fresh air for people waiting for a new generation of Opera superstars to emerge. Those somewhat dissapointed by the somewhat ncomfortable edge to Salvator Licitra's voice, may take refuge in the freshness of Villazon.
I don't really want to ruin the magic of his singing, with caddy comparisons, but it is sufficient to say that he excellent. Many compare his to Domingo, to that I would say that Villazon has an ease to his top that Domingo never had, but perhaps lacks the focus and thickness of Domingo's lower registers.
Overall what hits you most about Villazons performance, is the induviduality of his interpretations and voice. The top of his voice has a ring and tone that sets his apart from the pack.
To my ear, he sounds at his best in the Mid Period verdi, where the cut of voice come through in the long high-lying passage, (expecially the cut from Traviata,
Enjoy this incredible singer

Quite Good.......2005-05-26

A very promising debut album with some excellent burnished tenor sound. To the reviewer who went on and on about Mr. Villazon only being in his 20's -- I hate to burst your bubble, but he was born in 1972, which makes him 33! And, by the way, the age of the singer is not a "huge" advantage; let us remember that some of our greatest singers didn't come into their element until their 40's (e.g., Flagstad, Milanov...)

Promising debut by new lyric tenor.......2005-05-05

Rolando Villazon immediately made himself a name we should all watch out for, after his appearance on a NY City Opera telecast of Boheme, as Rodolfo. Since then he has become a regular artist in leading lyric roles at the Deutsche Oper Berlin, has sung two parts at the Met already, and obviously has much ahead for him. The voice itself has a number of virtues, evenness of tone across the different registers, and the ability to encompass long lines without taking unnecessary breaths and showing the control to taper many lines off softly. It has also taken on perhaps a prematurely dark quality, in contrast with what I remember of the La Boheme telecast.

This recital of Italian opera arias presents Villazon near the alpha of his career (one appearance as the Steersman on the Barenboim Flying Dutchman before, for Teldec) and the conductor at his omega - the just deceased Marcello Viotti, at the age of 52, who suddenly replaced Sinopoli in Berlin for the second of two performances of Verdi's Aida in 2001. Sinopoli had passed away at 54 the night of the first performance that weekend in Berlin.

On first impression, Federico's lament from Cilea's L'Arlesiana is taken too slowly, and yet from repeated listening to this disc, it is one of nearly half a dozen selections that contribute the most to making this an interesting recital. The lachrymose manner and delivery here, though, sets a little too much of an overall tone for the rest of the recital, including its several or so lighter numbers. Said to also be a Caruso favorite, the aria from Donizetti's Duca d'Alba is a real highlight as close to being Schubertian in feeling as some Verdi - as late into Verdi's work as Forza and Don Carlo. Villazon's singing here is as warmly ardent as you'll find anywhere on this disc, and his personal identification with the character of Don Carlo, several tracks later, is as complete as that of its best interpreters of the recent past, Placido Domingo especially.

The two Elisir d'amore selections are pleasant vocally, but too dark, especially the start to so many phrases of "Una furtiva." The remorse felt during the opening aria of the Tomb Scene from Lucia, after a slightly uncertain start, is entirely felt. Oronte's brief aria from Verdi's Lombardi is handled with an easy, pleasant swagger from both Villazon and Viotti, leading one to expect similar lightness in selections that soon follow, and which is not entirely forthcoming; the beginning of the recitative to "Parmi veder" from Rigoletto shows a palpable anxiety in this peculiar moment for the Duke in which he finds himself. Intonation falters momentarily at the end of this aria. "Ah! la paterna mano", after good recitative, gets pushed a little too forward, robbing the crest of several lines in it their full expressive potential. Contrast of expression between Alfredo's aria and cabaletta from Traviata is so minimal, almost to have been erased altogether; Viotti here, so deft and highly musical an accompanist he is for most of the rest of this disc, is similarly disengaged. Connecting music between aria and cabaletta and repeat of the latter both get awkwardly cut.

That leaves four verismo tracks for the remainder of this disc. Most distinctively sung is "E lucevan le stelle" from Tosca, but frequently quite close to sounding a copy of Domingo's interpretation. The honeyed placement for the top of the staff, once the voice takes on the melodic line, could hardly remind you of anyone else. "Che gelida manina" is also given a fine performance here, but begins to lose all consonants on a couple of words right before the ascent to the high C in the aria. After hearing Dino Borgioli and Cesare Valletti as Fritz, each more of a benchmark than Pavarotti, it is hard to identify the villager Fritz, from how disinteresed Villazon sounds. A slight cut is taken between two portions of recitative before Fritz's Act III aria. "Quando al soave anelito" from Mascagni's Nerone, obviously a rarity, is one for which I can only find a Domingo recital before. Here, the singing is fine, but the youthful sense of wonderment for Nero, in his vision of Venus, as wordly-wise a fellow he is, gets understated. Accompaniments to these four arias are mostly as fine as the others, but all come to abrupt endings, the endings of Boheme and Amico Fritz which lose all their shimmer here.

Much criticism here, but there is also much hope felt from listening to this disc, for a bright future for Mr. Villazon still. He is only seldom a conscientious and musical performer, but as opposed to what the liner notes might say, part of being musical in singing such selections or opera in general, is being specific for each character being portrayed here. Villazon should also take note that his singing is most interesting and also most easy to distinguish from his widely celebrated mentor, when he sings lightly. First impressions are strong - I first anticipated awarding this disc five stars - but unfortunately it just barely deserves four. Sound quality, if a bit heavily miked for climaxes and a bit recessed for the orchestra, especially at closings to arias, is warm and full.

Average customer rating: Beautiful Piano Arias cocktails at La Scala Liberace lives! Outstanding Gorgeous music magnificently played with technique to spare

The Puccini Album: Arias for Piano Manufacturer: Angel Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Movie Album Classical Pictures; John Bayless Romantica Christmas Rhapsody Bach Meets the Beatles: Revisited Puccini Without Words ASIN: B000002SKC Release Date: 1993-08-17

Tracks:

1. Prelude
2. La Boheme: Che gelida manina (How Cold Your Little Hand Is!)
3. La Boheme: Si, Mi chiamano Mimi (Yes. The Call Me Mimi)
4. La Boheme: O soave fanciulla! (Oh, Sweet Maiden!)
5. La Boheme: Quando me'n vo... (Musetta's Waltz)
6. La Boheme: Son andati? (Have they gone?)
7. Turandot: Non piangere Liu! (Don't cry Liu!)
8. Gianni Schicchi: O mio babbino caro (Oh, My Dear Daddy), Chi il bel sogno di Doretta (Doretta's Song)
9. Madama Butterfly: Un bel di (One Fine Day)
10. Madama Butterfly: Scuoti quella fronda di ciliegio (Blossom Duet)
11. Madama Butterfly: Coro a bocca chiusa (Humming Chorus)
12. Madama Butterfly: Tu, tu piccolo Iddio! (You, You Little God!)
13. Turandot: Signore, ascolta! (Lord, Listen!)
14. TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle... (And The Stars Were Shining...)
15. Turandot: Nessun dorma! (No Man Shall Sleep!)
16. Turandot: In questa Reggia (In This Palace)
17. Postlude

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful Piano Arias.......2006-03-19

This is a wonderful CD that is filled with beautiful Puccini arias played by a great pianist. I love to listen to it over and over since the music inspires me with thoughts of relaxation, exhilaration and peacefulness all wrapped into one. John Bayless truly captures the emotion of Puccini with his wonderful arrangements and musical skills. I recommend this CD for those who enjoy not only beautiful music but also love the piano.

cocktails at La Scala.......2004-01-23

This is a superb collection of Puccini's melodies arranged and improvised for solo piano, and brilliantly played by John Bayless; it wrings every bit of emotion from these resplendent arias, some so tender and expressive, like the exquisite "Son Andati ?" from La Boheme.
Puccini once told a soprano to "walk in clouds of melody", and on this disc we have a celestial feast, making one realize how starved we are in today's world of great melodies, with so much of popular music very uninspired in this area, and classical music ignoring it.
Perhaps my favorite track is the gentle and passionate interpretation of one of opera's best loved arias, "E Lucevan le Stelle" from Tosca.

The way Bayless has transcribed this music and improvised on it is a stroke of genius, and very clever marketing as well, giving us a new, unique take on "opera lite", and one of the most enjoyable I've heard; his virtuoso technique is up to the task, and he manages to get a myriad of sounds and colorations out of the instrument.
This enthralling presentation of operatic themes is lighthearted and would make great background music, but is also much more; it's inventive and beautifully performed, is true to the emotional content of the original, and oh ! those glorious melodies.
The sound is crisp and clear, and total playing time 78'28.

Liberace lives!.......2002-11-15

If you enjoyed the flourishing style of Liberace, you'll love this wonderful schmaltzy tribute to Puccini. All the favorites are here from Un Bel Di to Nessun Dorma, played with extravagant passion by John Bayless. I like to play this CD on a rainy day with a cup of hot cocoa, close my eyes and just disappear into the sensuality of the music

Outstanding.......2000-12-18

I have owned this CD for seven years and I am always delighted to discover it again. For those who love the original voice arias and love the piano -- you will not be disappointed.

Gorgeous music magnificently played with technique to spare.......2000-01-30

The first opera I ever liked was La Boheme and especially the solo arias in the first two acts. Bayless' rendition of Musetta's Waltz is the perfect blend of sweetness and bright shining light. He must have four hands, at least! Besides revisiting favorites that I knew and loved, this album introduced me to other Puccini operas that I was unfamiliar with. Like others who have reviewed this disc, I wanted a rating higher than 5 stars.

Average customer rating: No Passion, Skip It! Eileen Farrell-Puccini Arias La Diva Yankee FARRELL SINGS PUCCINI Legacy Recording of USA's greatest dramatic soprano, bar none

Puccini Arias Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gluck | Gluck, Christoph W. | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Weber | Weber, Carl Maria von | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Eileen Farrell Sings Verdi French Opera Arias (Dig) Eileen Farrell Sings Opera Arias & Songs Eileen Farrell in New Orleans HOMAGE: The Age of the Diva ASIN: B000F6YW62 Release Date: 2006-08-01

Tracks:

1. O mio babbino caro from Gianni Schicchi
2. Quando me'n vo' soletta per la via from La boh (Musetta's Waltz Song)
3. Smi chiamano Mimrom La boh
4. Donde lieta usci from La boh
5. Chi il bel sogno di Doretta from La rondine
6. Non la sospiri from Tosca
7. Vissi d'arte from Tosca
8. Spira sul mare from Madame Butterfly
9. Un bel di vedremo from Madama Butterfly
10. In quelle trine morbide from Manon Lescaut
11. Tu che di gel sei cinta from Turandot
12. In questa reggia from Turandot
13. Grands dieux! du destin, qui m'accable from Alceste
14. Ah perfido!, Op. 65
15. Abscheulicher, wo eilst du hin? from Fidelio
16. Leise, leise' from Der Freisch
17. Cavatina: Und ob die Wolke from Der Freisch

Customer Reviews:

No Passion, Skip It!.......2007-07-18

Skip the Puccini arias and go directly to the Gluck, Beethoven and Weber. There you will find Farrell more sympathetic to the style. She does not "get" Puccini at all and just sings the notes with not a jot of feeling, let alone the passion that these arias demand. She holds back on the voice and doesn't once let loose - her top even sounds quite unlike her. In the French and German arias she sounds more attuned to the music, though even there she is sorely lacking. Listen to the beginning of "Komm, Hoffnung," (in "Abscheulicher") in which she evinces no sign that she knows what she's singing about. The opening word of that aria, "Abscheulicher!" means "monster," and there, too, she just sings the notes - there's no revulsion, anger or fear in her voice. "Per pieta non dirmi addio," in "Ah perfido," is sung prettily where it should convey the cry of a woman begging her man to stay. All of the arias on this disc have been sung better by other sopranos of the past and present. Skip this disc, don't waste your money.

Eileen Farrell-Puccini Arias.......2007-02-21

I have been waiting for this recording to be released on CD for years. No one can sing like Ms. Farrell could. Everytime I hear her rendition of In Questa Reggia, it brings tears to my eyes. Her singing is just amazing. It's sad she is no longer with us, but having her wonderful voice preserved on CD will allow generations to come to also experience this gem. Take a listen to her blues/pop recordings as well. She could sing anything.

La Diva Yankee.......2006-11-04

In a singing competition with all the divas of her generation, Ms. Farrell would have won hands down, and this disc proves it. It is an excellent companion to her EMI recital with Thomas Schippers conducting if you want to document all the facets of her artistry. Mme. Callas once replied to Mr. Bing's wooing her to the Met with "We have all the greatest singers of the world" with "You don't have FARRELL!" If only Eileen Farrell had recorded more complete operas in the studio and had even been coaxed to sing Bellini's Norma.

FARRELL SINGS PUCCINI.......2006-09-19

To start off, I love Eileen Farrell. The voice was one in a million. Her versatility was astouding. From Bach Cantatas to Wagner's dramatic scenes, from the great symphonies and oratorios to the American songbooks of Gershwin, Arlen and Kern, this lady had it all. There's no dispute about that.

So why do I find something lacking in her singing of familiar Puccini arias? I can't put my finger on it. There's something unidiomatic in her and Max Rudolf's approach, something not lyrically italianate enough in style. Truly, Turandot should have been the right role for her, but "In questa reggia" just doesn't sound as effortless as it should have.

Far better are the Beethoven and Weber arias excerpted from the "Arias in the Great Tradition" collection.

Legacy Recording of USA's greatest dramatic soprano, bar none.......2006-08-27

Wow, it is ever good - no, great - to have Eileen Farrell back with us. Even if only via these reissued, remastered discs. One can only hope that the DSD remasterings which have been trickling out from giant Sony/BMG will soon get published in SACD versions.

It is ever too facile to look back on musicians of the past and hear a Golden Voice in a Golden Era. But, the cliché comes perilously near reality in this case.

Eileen Farrell was undoubtedly one of the most prodigiously gifted of dramatic sopranos who has ever walked the planet. Her physical vocal talents were so unfailingly there. She never had to wonder if her voice was going to show up, and neither did anybody else.

On top of these generous physical gifts, Farrell was the most dedicated of vocal musicians. She never showed up without being ready for work, and everybody knew it. In fact, her down to earth competency and Rock of Gibraltar professionalism tended to cast unwelcome shadows over some of the other divas - a category of grandstanding musician not strictly limited to singers - who might stand next to her on the opera or concert stages where she appeared.

To our very, very great loss, she eventually dropped out altogether. She loved the music - but she had little or no patience for the intrigues, the opera politics, and the over-inflated vanities of so many people whom she encountered in the music biz of her era.

To our great happiness, she did make some fine recordings, of which the current release is one. This CD actually gives us the old Puccini arias LP, plus a few added selections from another LP of famous arias for dramatic soprano.

Without affectation or strain, Eileen Farrell conquers each operatic challenge. And she does this by entering into the music, not by bending the music to her own wayward will or egotism. If Farrell had been eccentric, we surely would have forgiven her somewhat, so great was her voice. But she didn't need to pile difficult narcissistic postures or attitudes on top of her abilities. Technically, she lightens her huge voice to characterize the more youthful of the Puccini heroines on offer, starting with Gianni Schicchi, and moving on through La Boheme and La rondine, to Tosca and Madame Butterfly and Manon Lescaut. The climax of the Puccini program is Turandot, but true to Farrell's generosity and fine form, we get Liu, plus Turandot's In questa reggia.

If Birgit Nilsson could be said to have owned the role of Turandot in that past era, it probably was only because Farrell dropped out so quickly. Had Farrell stayed, we surely would have been happy to get every single note she sang. This In questa reggia is so much solid gold that one roundly curses the USA record companies for not rushing to get the whole opera down complete, with Farrell in the title role. Or, in a risible tour de force of studio recording, could she have been double cast as both Liu and Turandot? That sensationalistic oddity of a trick would have yielded nothing but the best music in Farrell's hands, if anybody had even dared go so far.

To complete the disc, we get five additional great dramatic soprano arias from Gluck, Beethoven, and Carl Maria von Weber. If anything, these leave a listener aching like a silly opera pig for more, more, more, more, more. (There is more; look for a disc of Verdi arias. Also pure gold.) She has the imperturbable facility that we have tended to associate with Nilsson, plus a certain North American cultural or interpretive directness. There is simply never a fussy moment in these great dramatic arias. The Beethoven arias especially benefit from this self-assured directness, because something true in Farrell's personality - she knew she was good, period - is echoed in Beethoven's musical personality. The Gluck and von Weber arias also benefit from this directness of utterance, because their grand operatic, dramatic soprano strength is delivered, clear and present and whole. In their examples, Romantic opera does not depend on having to use operatic character acting to cover for any vocal weaknesses or limitations whatsoever. Farrell simply lets her characters stand and deliver.

If your best sense of Verdi has gotten squishy, just go to the other Farrell disc and she will get you right back to Verdi home base, no holds barred.

Who was the Columbia Symphony Orchestra? Membership probably varied from session to session, and from east coast bands, to west coast bands. Whoever they were, they play wonderfully well for Max Rudolf. Partly, their fundamentally professional competency matches Farrell's work, and partly all concerned must have felt privileged to get the call to be a session player for this disc. No problems with the band, then. And kudos to dear old Max Rudolf. He conducts as open-heartedly and as musically involved as Farrell sings.

If you have slightly or greatly lost sight of opera as music - if opera has gotten tarnished by pretense, theatrics, diva-dom, and brand name singer marketing spin published by the remaining big record labels - well, just put this gem of a CD on the player and return to a time and place when opera was still a real musical deal. Farrell would like that, assuming we listen with a no nonsense attitude that wants nothing better than to hear the music for what it is worth.

Do not hesitate to get this disc. And if it comes out in SACD some day soon, get that too.
Farrell and the music are the point. And, looking back, we cannot take such dedication for music as a great cultural calling for granted, even for a split second, in the slightest. This and the other Farrell recordings belong on a best of all times list. Now shake your piggy bank vigorously, and click.

Average customer rating: Voice of the 20th Century.. The OTHER essential Bjoerling CD; 10 stars! 20!

Jussi Bjorling: Opera Arias Giacomo Puccini , Umberto Giordano , Francesco Cilea , Giacomo Meyerbeer , Charles Gounod , Jules Massenet , Friedrich von Flotow , Gioachino Rossini , Nils Grevillius , and Jussi Bjorling Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Flotow | Flotow, Friedrich von | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Leoncavallo | Leoncavallo, Ruggiero | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Björling, Jussi | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Donizetti, Gaetano | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Jussi Björling Rediscovered Artists Of The Century - Jussi Bjorling, The Ultimate Collection The "Pearl Fishers" Duet Very Best of Jussi Björling: Opera Arias ASIN: B000002S05 Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

1. Act II: 'Una furtiva lagrima': L'Elisir d'Amore
2. Act III: 'Ah! si ben mio coll'essere': Verdi: Il Trovatore
3. Act I: Di tu se fedele': Un Ballo in Maschera
4. Act I: 'Se quel guerrier': Aida
5. Act I: 'Recitar!...Vesti la giubba': I Pagliacci
6. Act I: 'Che gelida manina': La Boh
7. Act I: 'O soave fanciulla': La Boh
8. Act I: 'Recondita armonia': Tosca
9. Act Three: 'E lucevan le stelle': Tosca
10. Act Three: 'Ch'ella mi creda libero': La Fanciulla del West
11. Act Three: 'Nessun dorma!': Turandot
12. Act Three: 'Amor ti vieta': Fedora
13. Act II: 'E la solita storia': L'Arlesiana
14. 'Mi batte, il cor... O paradiso': L'Africaine
15. Act III: 'Salut! demeure chaste et pure': Faust
16. Act III: 'Je suis seul!...Ah, fuyez, douce image': Manon
17. Act III: 'M appari tutt'amor': Martha
18. Cujus animan: Stabat Mater

Customer Reviews:

Voice of the 20th Century.........2000-07-13

Björling tops most polls as "singer of the 20th century", and justly so. Whether one prefers his velvety,lyrically smooth voice of the 30s and 40s, or his more full-bodied, darker power-tenor of the late 50s (he was ready to take on Lohengrin and Otello just before his death), no other human voice has left a legacy of Björling's caliber in recording history.

This collection is a wonderful presentation of the young Björling. His voice was said to have a direct appeal to emotions. Listen to "Ch'ella mi creda libero" with its almost extraterrestial "lift" and try to keep the lump in your throat from growing!

The-37 "O Paradiso" is a fantastic display of power blended with beauty - which is also the case with the Tosca arias presented here.

"Che Gelida Manina" is by many regarded as Björling's signature aria, just as "La Boheme" was said to be his signature opera. The -36 version here shows Björling aged 25 with wonderful silvery tone and grasp of message, problems with Italian pronounciation or not.

Björling never lapsed into self parodic sobbing or exaggerated shouts or gliding "loops" to get a message across. He insisted on sticking to what the composer actually had written down...and within these vocal restraints, Björling still managed to portray an unexplored universe of human feelings. "Vesti La Giubba" is a good example of this: no sobbing or bitter laughter but downright hartbreaking nonetheless. True art!

His -44 studio version of "Nessun Dorma" makes an interesting comparison with his -59 recording from the complete Turandot. Touch and go which one to go for as the second or third best version of "...Dorma" ever in recording history. The shining beacon is in my opinion from a radio concert in Sweden in 1944, where Björling for once actually DOES go beyond the strict readings of the work. His final B just stretches on and on and on into eternity - read heaven.

As for his famous ringing high notes, his final D flat on Cujus Animan may be THE one most beautiful sound I've ever heard from a human being!

If you do not have any Björling CDs, this may be a perfect introduction to his art.

And where to go from there? Well,"O Paradiso" is one of many excellent collections from the 50s. There's also a Norwegian compilation called "jussi's Beste" (which sold to platinum in Norway 35 years after his death...). This CD contains among other highlights the wonderful Christmas song "O Helga Natt", in which the final high note is sung with such force that it threatens to blow your speakers to oblivion, never mind your ears...(if it is the last sound I will ever hear, it is OK by me...).

If you want a complete opera recording, you just have to invest your hard earned cash (or bank credit as is the case with me) on Beechams "La Boheme".

Someone said elsewhere that once you have listened to Björling, you may never want to listen to any other tenor...ever: HOW VERY TRUE!

The OTHER essential Bjoerling CD; 10 stars! 20!.......1999-03-15

Along with the "Pearl Fishers Duet" CD, to me this is the other essential Bjoerling. (The more than 2 dozen friends who've received those 2 CDs as a gift can testify to that!)

The "Vesti" is completely heartbreaking, maybe because there's none of the histrionic sobbing that usually accompanies it. And of course there is that 1945 recording of "Nessun dorma!", which I have seen referred to as one of the 5 greatest recordings of all time. The arias from Tosca are also outstanding. The only addition that would make this perfect CD "even more perfect" would be the inclusion of the Gonoud "Ah! Leve-toi, soleil!"

Although I have loved classical music since I was a kid, until Jussi every tenor I ever heard sounded like an opera parody. Jussi is different; he doesn't make you think "Now there's a guy taking a deep breath and singing loud." To steal a line from Amadeus, when he opens his mouth you "hear the voice of God"; absolute, divine beauty, untainted by ego or eccentricity. that seems to flow without strain or effort.

The only risk in listening to this (or, perhaps, any other Bjoerling) CD? You may never, ever be satisfied with any other voice.

Meditation Music:

1. Puccini: Il Trittico
2. Puccini - La Fanciulla del West / Marton · D. O'Neill · Fondary · Planté · Hawlata · Ivaldi · Munich RO · Slatkin
3. Puccini: Manon Lescaut (Highlights)
4. Puccini: Tosca/Verdi: La Forza Del Destino
5. Puccini: Turandot / Marton, Heppner, Price, R. Abbado
6. Purcell - Dido & Aeneas / Bott · Kirkby · Ainsley · D. Thomas · Chance · Baird · Priday · Stowe · Lochmann · AAM · Hogwood
7. Robert Schumann: Genoveva, Op 81
8. Rossini: Armida / Franci, Teatro La Fenice
9. Rossini - Semiramide / Tamar, Scalchi, Kunde, Pertusi, Zedda, Pesaro Rossini Opera Festival
10. Schubert Lieder, Vol. 2

Meditation Music

meditation music

Meditation Music

TV Tube Heart

Rubinstein Collection, Vol. 77

Stars of English Oratorio, Vol.1

Music: Magic Sound of Deep Dance

The Age of Love [Import]

Sweat Everybody Dance Now! [Enhanced] [Import]

Starckdeutsch [Import]

The Day After Yesterday

The 50 Greatest Hits

Stars on Classic: Queen

Someday My Prince Will Come [Live]

Rosa De Amor Y Fuego [Import]

Said and Done

One Way: Songs of Larry Norman

Serie Sem Limite