Rossini:La Pietra del Paragone

1. La pietra del paragone, opera
   Composed by Gioachino Rossini
   Performed by Clarion Concert Orchestra & Chorus
   with Anne Elgar, Justino Diaz, Elaine Bonazzi, Raymond Murcell, John Reardon, Beverly Wolff, Andrew Foldi, Jose Carreras
   Conducted by Newell Jenkins
   
   

Rossini:La Pietra del Paragone,Andrew Foldi,John Reardon,Justino Diaz,Raymond Murcell,Gioachino Rossini,Newell Jenkins,Beverly Wolff,Elaine Bonazzi,Clarion Concert Orchestra & Chorus,Anne Elgar,José Carreras,Vanguard Classics,Classical,Italian Romantic Opera,Opera,Opera / Operetta / Oratorio

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Average customer rating: Rossini at his best Tremendous rarity A "Paragon," indeed...and young Carreras, too!

Rossini:La Pietra del Paragone Manufacturer: Vanguard Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music ASIN: B0000023F5 Release Date: 1993-05-05

Tracks:

1. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Sinfonia
2. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Non v' e del Conte Asdrubale (Chorus)
3. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Ombretta (Little Shade)
4. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Mille vati al suodo io stendo
5. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Quel dirmi, oh dio! non t'amo...
6. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Se di certo io non sapessi
7. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Ombretta sdegnosa
8. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Voi volete, e non volete

Tracks:

1. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Come va, Donna Fulvia? mi sembrate
2. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Chi e coleo che s'avvicina?
3. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: II Conte Asdrubale
4. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Su queste piante incisi
5. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Non serve a vil politica
6. La Pietra del Paragone, Act I: Marchesina
7. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Lo stranier con le pive nel sacco
8. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: A caccia, o mio Signore
9. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Oh come il fosco impetuoso nembo

Tracks:

1. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Alla fortuna rinuziar non fora
2. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Spera, se vuoi, ma tachi
3. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Donna di sensi equivoci
4. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Pubblico fu l' oltraggio
5. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Prima fra voi coll'armi
6. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Se l'itali contrade
7. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Ah! se destarti in seno
8. La Pietra del Paragone, Act II: Voi Clarice?

Customer Reviews:

Rossini at his best.......2006-10-20

Such a pity that this gem has not been reissued. The music, in my opinion, eclipses any of his other comedies. The glorious melodies are non stop here; great conducting and singing throughout.

Tremendous rarity.......2001-03-06

La Pietra del Paragone was Rossini's first big hit. It was highly admired by contemporaries such as Stendhal. Apparently pushed aside by his later operas buffa, its obscurity is hardly deserved. While portrayal of character may not be as vivid as in some of the later work, the opera is full of vigorous and lively music and is embued with a wonderful sense of fun. The opera displays the fact that already Rossini was second only to Mozart in his ability to build ensembles which are not only exciting musically but which also move the plot forward effectively.

This is a splendid performance, well conceived, executed and engineered. With one exception, the performers did not achieve stellar status, but all perform very well, enough so as to make one wonder why they are not better known. The exception is Jose Carreras in what is billed as his first studio recording. The tenor role here is not very large, so that it is lucky that the producers caught Carreras before he achieved greater prominence. Here his fresh, silvery voice shines to perfection and is ideal for the role. Furthermore, Carreras judges his performance so as not to greatly outshine the others, a feature that is most noticeable when he blends with other voices.

Altogether, this is a marvelous recording. The conducting is first rate, the voices well presented, and the whole filled with a sense of fun. The booklet is a model of its type. For anyone who likes the Barber or La Cenerentola, this recording can be recommended without hesitation.

A "Paragon," indeed...and young Carreras, too!.......2000-06-15

"La Pietra del Paragone" decidedly is not Rossini at his "Barbiere," "Cenerentola," or "Semiramide" best, but when notes came from Rossini's pen they were never less that stylish and inevitably entertaining. The story of lovers attempting to outwit one another is one familiar to those familiar with Rossini's works. Conductor Newell Jenkins presides over the work with artistic and dramatic committment. Although the Clarion Concerts Orchestra and Chorus is not ideal in purely technical terms, they easily overcome many more accomplished orchestras by the sheer vivacity of their playing/singing. The soloists are an interesting group, all of them technically adequate and expressive. Mezzo-soprano Beverly Wolff does not make the strong impression that one may expect after hearing her performance on the RCA/Beverly Sills recording of Handel's "Julius Caesar," but the voice is in good condition and she certainly gets inside her role. Soprano Anne Elgar has a rather small, acidic voice, but she uses it quite well and achieves some impressive top notes in her only aria. Justino Diaz proves a top-quality Rossinian, singing with glorious gusto and appropriate inflection--only his distortions in his "nonsense" aria seem overdone. Baritone John Reardon adapts his narrow, coloratura-challenged voice to Rossini's sometimes fiendish writing with wit and genuine affection for the role. Yet, all of these attractions are almost pushed aside by the fact that this was Jose Carreras' first studio recording. Carreras' role is not large and is mostly inconsequential, but the beauty of post-Karajan Carreras' voice is a testament to his acclaim. In his small forest scene, he veritably trails clouds of glory. Anyone who doubts the integrity of Carreras' artistry need look no further than this exemplary recording. With much to commend it, this recording should not be missed!

Average customer rating: Rare Skill and Sensitivity in one so young Pure Fun! Cecilia is a wonderful singer!

Cecilia Bartoli - Rossini Arias / Patanè Gioachino Rossini , Giuseppe Patanè , Cecilia Bartoli , and Vienna State Opera Choir Concert Association Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works Featuring Bartoli | Bartoli, Cecilia | A to B | Featured Performers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | 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 Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Bartoli, Cecilia | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Bartoli, Cecilia | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Cecilia Bartoli - Mozart Arias Cecilia Bartoli - Rossini recital ~ 19 songs & Cantata: Giovanna d'Arco Cecilia Bartoli - Rossini Heroines Cecilia Bartoli - Mozart Portraits Cecilia Bartoli - Gluck Italian Arias ~ Dreams & Fables ASIN: B0000041VL Release Date: 1989-09-26

Tracks:

1. L'Italiana in Algeri: Cruda Sorte! Amor tiranno
2. L'Italiana in Algeri: Pronti abbiamo...Amici in ogni evento...Pensa alla patria
3. La Donna Del Lago: Mura felici
4. Tancredi: Oh! patria!...Di tanti palpiti
5. Otello: Assisa a pie' d'un salice
6. Stabat Mater: Fac ut portem
7. La pietra del paragone: Se l'Itale Contrade...Se per voi, le care, io torno
8. La Cenerentola: Nacqui all'affano...Non piu' mesta

Customer Reviews:

Rare Skill and Sensitivity in one so young.......2000-11-01

At an age when most mezzos are doing local theatre, studying, and dreaming of perhaps one day doing Tancredi or La Cenerentola, 22-year-old Cecilia Bartoli recorded this collection and, in doing so, served notice that for the forseeable future, one could not mention late 20th-century mezzo-sopranos without including her name near the very top of the list. This is no mere album of pretty songs done by a competent singer but some of the most beautifully and skillfully-rendered Rossini in recent memory. Not since Jackie Horne in her prime have some of these songs received such engaging treatment. And, some, like "Cruda sorte! Amor tiranno" from "La Italiana in Algeri", are now Cecilia's, alone. Here's a tip; leave the incredulity at her tender age behind and just listen. You'll be treated to some of the finest Rossini you're ever likely to hear.

Pure Fun!.......2000-07-06

You can't criticize a perfect blend. Of course everyone knows about Bartoli's weaknesses, BUT her voice was made to sing the lively & lilting, tuneful & titillating music of dear Rossini. This album is pure fun! Don't analyze it, just let yourself lift off! Ciao!

Cecilia is a wonderful singer!.......1999-09-24

This album recorded 1989. She is 23-year-old in those time, but she sung well these Rossini's Aria. I think she will be wonderful singer in the 21st Century. She has a wonderful voice and techinique. Some people says she is not good compared with the singers in the good old days. But I don't mind the things they said. They must envy her sucess.

I recommend it highly!

Average customer rating: A fine recital by a wonderful artist I have nothing to add... Incredible! WOW!! Larmore at her best!

Amore Per Rossini Gioachino Rossini , English Chamber Orchestra , Giuliano Carella , Jennifer Larmore , and London Voices Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Larmore, Jennifer | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | 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: Bravura Diva Rossini - Tancredi / Podles, Jo, Olsen, Spagnoli, di Micco, Lendi, Zedda Call Me Mister Jennifer Larmore - Where Shall I Fly Ruth Ann Swenson - Positively Golden ~ Colaratura Arias ASIN: B00000AEK0 Release Date: 1998-09-08

Tracks:

1. La pietra del paragone: Se l'itale contrade - Se per voi le care io torno
2. Matilde Di Shabran: Sazia tu fossi alfine - Ah! Perche, perche la morte
3. Le si de Corinthe: L'heure fatale approche - Juste ciel! Ah! ta clemence
4. Maometto II: Non temer: d'un basso affetto
5. Bianca e Falliero: Se per l'Adrea il ferro strinsi
6. Otello: Isaura!... Isaura! - Assisa a pie d'un salice - Deh calma, o ciel
7. Matilde Di Shabran: Piange il mio ciglio
8. Armida: D'Amor al dolce impero

Amazon.com

Mezzo-soprano Jennifer Larmore lacks Cecilia Bartoli's expansive charm and personal magnetism, but she is more enterprising and versatile, as evidenced by this disc of little-known contralto arias from operas such as La pietra del paragone, Le siege de Corinthe, Maometto II, Bianca é Falliero and Otello. Though she hasn't the warmest voice in the world, her coloratura technique is cleaner than either Bartoli's or Marilyn Horne's, and she often manages real expressive depth amid the welter of notes. Most of the music is top-drawer Rossini: The compositional devices are recycled endlessly but with a scintillating sense of drama. --David Patrick Stearns

Customer Reviews:

A fine recital by a wonderful artist.......2003-12-03

On this CD, Jennifer Larmore sings two true female soprano arias, two true female mezzo-soprano arias, and four mezzo-soprano en travesti arias. She has a distinctive, dusky mezzo-soprano voice. Larmore's voice has a wonderful middle register and a strong lower register. On this CD of Rossini arias, she sings cleanly and with emotion. Her singing is not just empty display. She really commits her dramatic intelligence to these wonderful arias. Her coloratura is very good. Some of the florid work she executes is worthy of Marilyn Horne and can be compared with the coloratura of sopranos such as Joan Sutherland and Beverly Sills. I would like to point out some highlights of the disc. Pamyra's Prayer from "Le Siège de Corinthe", sung in French, is a beautiful aria that Larmore executes superbly. In Falliero's cavatina from "Bianca e Falliero", the last section has a march-like melody that rouses Larmore to sing with great passion and spirit. This march-like tune is quite melodious, too. Larmore sounds just like a brave, young warrior who would do anything for his country. The Willow Song from Rossini's "Otello" has a ravishingly beautiful harp introduction. The aria requires some agility, which Larmore has in abundance. Her two trills in this aria, on the word "ruscelletti", as well as her trills in a couple of the other arias, are very good. In "D'amor al dolce impero", she executes the tricky runs very well. However, she slows down the tempo in order to sing the triplet passages accurately. Her high C's in this aria are quite thin. Near the end of the aria, she tries to do a diminuendo on one of her high notes, but the result is not very effective. If you have ever heard Montserrat Caballé's studio recording of this aria, you will be amazed by the diminuendo she does on one of her high notes. She hits the high note forte and then immediately scales back her voice to a tiny pianissimo. The effect is stunning. My only complaint about Larmore's singing is that her Italian diction is not always clear. I am referring to her diction in legato passages, not in florid passages. Throughout, she is supported by the excellent English Chamber Orchestra. The London Voices chorus contributes nicely to the recording. Teldec's sound is very good, definitely demonstration-quality. The booklet supplies useful notes, texts, and translations.

This disc comes with my highest recommendation.

I have nothing to add..........2002-02-22

The reviewers have said all,but I strongly recomend this disk.
Larmore has well balance,warm voice,from high to low.There is not a weak point.Her "agirita"techinique is perfect.This is a "must"for vocal lover and opera fan.

Incredible!.......2001-06-03

This is an incredible CD which you will love more each time you listen. I first heard track 2 in my car and almost had to pull over. According to the insert, this is the first time this aria from Matilde di Shabran has been recorded. If you like Rossini's Overture to William Tell, (and who does not find that rousing?)check this out. If the last four minutes of Track 2 does not make your heart beat fast and your hair stand on end, check yourself for nerve endings. And the rest of the CD is awesome also. A true find.

WOW!!.......1999-07-23

Listening to the range of Jeniffer Larmore is so exciting, so stimulating, it makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up on and giving me the chills. No other opera Diva does that. I wish there were clones of Jenniffer Larmore so we could her her in person more often than once every five years. If you have not heard her on a good system, get one right away.

Larmore at her best!.......1999-02-10

Jennifer Larmore is the epitome of what a mezzo coloratura must be: dark, luscious sound, extraordinary range and perfect technique. This is absolutely the best solo recital of this beautiful singer up to date. Rossini is definitely HER COMPOSER. She sings the eight very difficult arias of this album with energy, lots of expression and a sense of fun. Her use of ornamentation is really an asset (Special mention to Philip Gosset, who provided ornamentation oh his own making). But Larmore's delivery is not mere vocal display: she provides great depth to what she is singing, specially in "Canzone del salice" from "Otello". It is also refreshing to find musical rarities that are first-rate music. The English Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Giuliano Carella, provides great support to the singer. This is a must have for fans of Larmore, Rossini and the great tradition of bel canto singing.

Average customer rating: Fantastic spirit, adequate performers. Walk On By

Rossini: La pietra del paragone Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music ASIN: B0000A9BVV Release Date: 2004-05-18

Tracks:

1. Sinfonia
2. Introduzione: Non V' E Del Conte Asdrubale
3. Recitativo: Ombretta
4. Duetto: Mille Vati Al Suolo Io Stendo
5. Recitativo: Signor Giocondo, Io Vedo
6. Cavatina: Quel Dirmi, Oh Dio!
7. Recitativo: Quella Che L'Eco Mi Facea
8. Cavatina: Se Di Certo Io Non Sapessi
9. Recitativo: Di Me Stupisce Ognun
10. Recitativo & Duetto: Perche? Perche Vorrei Chel L'Eco Fose
11. Recitativo: Dove Mai Si Caccio?/Aria: Ombretta Sdegnosa Del Missipipi
12. Recitativo: Bravissimo! Il Conte Appunto E Qua
13. Quartetto: Voi Volete, E Non Volete
14. Recitativo: Ma Che Sestina
15. Aria: Chi E Colei Che S'Avvicina
16. Coro: Il Conte Asdrubale

Tracks:

1. Recitativo: Perche Fuggir?
2. Su Queste Piante Incisi
3. Oh Caso Orribile!
4. Non Serve A Vil Politica
5. Marchesina...Contessina
6. Viva! Viva!

Tracks:

1. Introduzione: Lo Stranier Con Le Pive In Sacco
2. Recitativo: Eppur Ciascun Di Loro
3. Coro Di Cacciatori: A Caccia, O Mio Signore
4. Temporale
5. Oh Come Il Fosco Impetuoso Nembo
6. Quell' Alme Pupille
7. Recitativo: Ehi... Giocondo.../Quintetto: Spera Se Vuoi, Ma Taci
8. Recitativo: Ah! Donna Fulvia
9. Aira: Pubblico Fu L' Oltraggio
10. Recitativo: Macrobio. Signor.
11. Terzetto: Prima Fra Voi Coll' Armi
12. Recitativo: Menzognero, Impostor!
13. Marcia, Scena Ed Aria: Se L' Itale Contrade
14. Recitativo: Che Ne Dite Macrobio
15. ah! Se Destarti In Seno
16. Ah! Signor Capitan...
17. Voi Clarice?

Album Description

La pietra del paragone (The Touchstone), a story of three rival women and their pursuit of marriage to Count Asdrubale, is unique in the sense that no other opera of Rossini's has been so highly praised in the literature on the subject and yet so seldom performed. The better known Il barbiere di Siviglia brought a series of stage successes without comparison, and so shaped the fate of La pietra. That it could not be counted among the first rank of Rossini operas meant that for nearly two centuries it had no place, not even a modest one, on the stage. It does, however, thorougly deserve its reputation and marks a unique phase of Rossini's development as a master of opera buffa. His genius for melody and sparkling, witty orchestration are already apparent in this relatively early work. Leading this production is the conductor Alessandro de Marchi, who directs a lively and stylish performance. De Marchi has received high praise for his Rossini conducting across Europe. The leading role is Count Asdrubale is taken by Raffaele Costantini, and his beloved Clarice is sung by Agata Bienkowska. The other roles, which are comic rather than romantic, are taken by expert singing actors of a consistently high standard. The orchestra and chorus are from the Czech Republic, and the famed Czech virtuosity for string playing is fully in evidence.

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic spirit, adequate performers........2006-09-24

I had never heard of this opera before I purchased it but my interest in Rossini and his neglected works is a personal passion so I ordered this item and waited patiently for it's arrival. I was not disappointed.

The vocalists as a whole are adequate performers with niehter poor nor incredible performances but where they do succeed beyond fair is as an ensemble. This opera consists of two introduziones, two duetto's, one quartetto, one quintetto, two finales, about seven solo pieces and a few coro's. The ensemble numbers are solid and balanced with no performer(s) singing over the others; the cast sing to each other during these numbers rather than to us which means they uphold the important spirit of the ensemble: interpersonal communication.

Where this opera also succeeds is in it's orchestration and truth to Rossini's melodic and dramatic sensibilities. The music is appropriately bright and florid with that special sense of the overwhelming which Rossini is particularly known for. To build on that, the stretta for the first act finale in this recording is a model of intensity which many recordings of Rossini's other opera's lack. Try listening to this stretta when your feeling overwhelmed by those moments in life which are felt with intensity and you'll see what I mean (or other moments like being a passenger in a speeding car during a rain storm: pretty intense).

The style of this opera has more to do with the imitation of other composers of the time than with Rossini's mature style but it's still very potent none the less. One can hear a strong dose of Mosca, a pinch of Mayr and even a bit of residual Cimarosa. There are also some portions of re-used melodies from "L'equivoco stravagante" and probably from some of his other early operas.

I highly recommend this recording to anyone interested in Rossini specifically or in early bel canto opera.

Walk On By.......2004-08-16

This recording of Rossini's all-but-unknown early opera buffa 'La pietra del paragone' ('The Touchstone') is actually one of four that have been made and are available (with some searching, in the case of my recommended performance). I first heard and fell in love with it when Newell Jenkins recorded it with his Clarion Concerts cohorts. The recording, made thirty years ago, starred José Carreras, Justino Diaz, Beverly Wolff, Elaine Bonazzi, and John Reardon, all of them at the time New York City Opera stars of the first rank. And although Diaz (as Count Asdrubale) was somewhat deficient in his coloratura, he was giant compared to the Asdrubale on this CD, Raffaele Costantini, whose soft-cored and somewhat unwieldy voice simply isn't up to the task. The same is true for the female lead, mezzo Agata Bienkowska, whose voice, one must say, matches that of her costar.

This recording was taken from live performances at Bad Wildbad, Germany as part of the 'Rossini in Wildbad' festival in 2001. The Czech Chamber Soloists and Chorus under Alessandro de Marchi do a fine job playing and singing Rossini's bubbly music. It's just a shame that none of the soloists matches their wit and sparkle.

I have not heard the other two extant recordings (Desderi, cond., on Nuova Era with unknown [to me] singers; and Aprea, cond., with the redoubtable Sara Mingardo, alto, and William Matteuzzi, tenor, on Bongiovanni) but I have had little complaint with the Jenkins recording and thus have not sought them out.

My advice, then, is to search for the Newell Jenkins performance (available at several sources online), and skip this one.

Scott Morrison

Average customer rating:

William Matteuzzi - Opera Arias / Guingal Gioachino Rossini , Gaetano Donizetti , Riccardo Zandonai , Edouard Lalo , Charles Gounod , Georges Bizet , Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov , Ruggero Leoncavallo , Jules Massenet , Alain Guingal , William Matteuzzi , and Minsk Philharmonic Orchestra Manufacturer: Bongiovanni ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Lalo, Edouard | ( L ) | 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 Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | 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 Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: William Matteuzzi: Rossini Opera Concert ASIN: B0000044AP Release Date: 1995-04-18

Tracks:

1. La Pietra Del Paragone: 'Quell'alme Pupille'
2. Rita: 'Allegro Io Son'
3. La Fille Du Regiment: 'Pour Me Rapprocher De Marie'
4. L'elisir D'amore: 'Una Furtiva Lagrima'
5. Faust: 'Salut Demeure Chaste Et Pure'
6. Romeo Et Juliette: 'Ah Leve Toi Soleil'
7. Le Roi D'ys: 'Vainemnt Ma Bien Aimee'
8. Werther: 'Pourquoi Me Reveiller'
9. Manon: Sogno
10. Les Pecheurs Des Perles: 'Je Crois Entendre Encore'
11. Sadko: Chanson Indoue
12. Pagliacci: Serenata
13. Giulietta E Romeo: 'Done Piansite'

Average customer rating:

Rossini: Overture to Il barbiere di Siviglia; Overture to L'italiana Manufacturer: Tring ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music ASIN: B00008FWYN Release Date: 1996-11-19

Tracks:

1. Il Barbiere di Siviglia
2. La scala di seta
3. L'Italiana in Algeri
4. Il Signor Bruschino
5. Il Turco in Italia
6. La Cenerentola
7. La cambiale di matrimonio
8. La pietra del paragone

Average customer rating: Vincero!!!!

The Comeback Concerts Manufacturer: Pilz ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bellini, Vincenzo | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Grieg, Edvard | ( 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 Alessandro Scarlatti | Scarlatti, Alessandro | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Turina | Turina, Joaquin | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Baroque (c.1600-1750) | 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 General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music ASIN: B00008FL2P Release Date: 1992-04-14

Customer Reviews:

Vincero!!!!.......2005-09-20

If there ever was a record from a comeback concert worth possessing, this must be it. José Carreras' comeback concerts didn't merely mean his return to the stage; it was also his return to life after his bout with leukaemia. He literally returned from the valley of death. And what a triumphant return this turned out to be.

This album is a compilation of songs from his concerts in Barcelona, Peralada and Vienna. The repertoire consists mostly of Catalan songs in addition to operatic arias. The beautiful Catalan song "L'emigrant" is very well received by the people of Barcelona. The same goes for "el cant dels ocells". His rendition of "Granada" which he sang in Vienna is as good as it ever gets and he's able to hold the notes for a long time. Even if he sounds slightly out of breath a few times he sings heavenly and if you take into consideration his horrible experiences the past 12 month his singing is divine. It's nothing less than a miracle that he survived all this and still possesses the most beautiful tenor voice in the world. And it's obvious that the audience are more than happy that he was able to return to the stage. He began the concert in Barcelona with the song T'estimo ("I love you") which was a declaration of affection towards his fans. And he ended it with the song "Nessun Dorma" because of the final word in the song which is "Vincero" - I shall win. And he won. He managed to conquer cancer and return to the stage. What a victory.

I tend to become a bit emotional whenever listening to this cd and I can't even begin to imagine how it must have been for people actually being there. And not to mention Carreras himself. He said in his book that his biggest fear was that he should become so emotional that he would be unable to sing. Fortunately for us that didn't happen, so now we can enjoy over one hour of beautiful singing from the victorious tenor. This cd is the best proof that José Carreras is singing from his heart as well as his soul. And what a beautiful soul that is.

If you can get hold of this cd, hang on to it with all of your life.

Average customer rating: Wonderful Carreras!

José Carreras Manufacturer: Legato Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Bellini, Vincenzo | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | 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 Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Allen, Thomas | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | 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 | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music ASIN: B0000019XM Release Date: 1996-11-19

Tracks:

1. Act One: Prld - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi/Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans/Lillian Watson
2. Act One: Bel conforto al mietitore - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi/Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans/Lillian Watson
3. Act One: Quanto e bella, quanto e cara! - Jose Carreras
4. Act One: Chi la mente mi rischiara? - Jose Carreras/Lillian Watson/Yasuko Hayashi/Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans
5. Act One: Della crudele Isotta - Yasuko Hayashi/Jose Carreras/Lillian Watson/Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans
6. Act One: March - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi/Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans/Lillian Watson
7. Act One: Come Paride vezzoso - Thomas Allen/Yasuko Hayashi/Lillian Watson/Jose Carreras/Geraint Evans
8. Act One: Or se m'ami, com'io t'amo - Thomas Allen/Yasuko Hayashi/Jose Carreras/Lillian Watson/Geraint Evans
9. Act One: Instanto, o mia ragazza - Thomas Allen/Yasuko Hayashi/Jose Carreras/Lillian Watson/Geraint Evans
10. Act One: Chiedi all'aura lusinghiera - Yasuko Hayashi/Jose Carreras
11. Act One: Che vuol dire cotesta suonata? - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi/Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans/Lillian Watson
12. Act One: Udite, udite, o rustici - Geraint Evans/Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi/Thomas Allen/Lillian Watson
13. Act One, Ardir! Ha forse il ciel mandato - Jose Carreras/Geraint Evans
14. Act One: Voglio dire lo stupendo elisir - Jose Carreras/Geraint Evans
15. Act One: Caro elisir! Sei mio!1 Si, tutto mio! - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi
16. Act One: Esulti pur la barbara - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi
17. Act One: La-lara-la la, la la la - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi
18. Act One: Tran tran tran tran - Thomas Allen/Yasuko Hayashi/Jose Carreras
19. Act One: Signor sargente, signor sargente - Lillian Watson/Thomas Allen/Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi/Geraint Evans
20. Act One: Adina, credimi, te ne scongiuro - Jose Carreras/Thomas Allen/Yasuko Hayashi/Lillian Watson/Geraint Evans
21. Act One: Andiam, Belcore - Yasuko Hayashi/Jose Carreras/Thomas Allen/Lillian Watson/Geraint Evans
22. Act Two: Cantiamo, cantiamo, cantiamo - Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans/Lillian Watson/Yasuko Hayashi/Jose Carreras
23. Act Two: Poiche canta vi alletta - Geraint Evans/Thomas Allen/Lillian Watson/Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi
24. Act Two: Io son ricco e tu sei bella - Geraint Evans/Thomas Allen/Lillian Watson/Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi

Tracks:

1. Act Two: Venti scudi! - Jose Carreras/Thomas Allen
2. Act Two: Qqua la mano, giovinotto - Thomas Allen/Jose Carreras
3. Act Two: Saria possibile? - Lillian Watson/Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi/Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans
4. Act Two: Dell' elisir mirabile - Jose Carreras/Lillian Watson/Yasuko Hayashi/Thomas Allen/Geraint Evans
5. Act Two: Oh! Come rapido - Yasuko Hayashi/Geraint Evans/Lillian Watson/Jose Carreras/Thomas Allen
6. Act Two: Come sen va contento! - Yasuko Hayashi/Geraint Evans
7. Act Two: Bell' Adina! Qua un momento - Geraint Evans/Yasuko Hayashi
8. Act Two: Una tenera occhiatina - Yasuko Hayashi/Geraint Evans
9. Act Two: Una furtiva lagrima - Jose Carreras
10. Act Two: Eccola! Oh! Qual accresce - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi
11. Act Two: Prendi, prendi; per me sei libero - Yasuko Hayashi
12. Act Two: Or or si spiega...Poiche non sono amato - Jose Carreras/Yasuko Hayashi
13. Act Two: Il mio rigor dimentica - Yasuko Hayashi
14. Act Two: Alto! Fronte! E? Che vedo? - Thomas Allen/Yasuko Hayashi/Geraint Evans/Jose Carreras/Lillian Watson
15. Act Two: Ei corregge ogni difetto - Geraint Evans/Yasuko Hayashi/Jose Carreras/Thomas Allen/Lillian Watson
16. Bellini: Dolente immagine di fille mia - Jose Carreras
17. Bellini: Vaga luna, che inargenti - Jose Carreras
18. Bellini: I CAPULETI ED I MONTECCI: Ecco la tomba...Deh! Tu bell' anima - Jose Carreras
19. Donizetti: Il sospiro - Jose Carreras
20. Rossini: L'esule - Jose Carreras
21. Rossini: LA PIETRA DEL PARAGONE: O come il fosco impetuoso...Quell'alme pupille - Jose Carreras
22. Meyerbeer: l'AFRICANA: O Paradiso! - Jose Carreras
23. Leoncavallo: LADY CHATTERSON: Tu sola a me rimani - Jose Carreras
24. Puccini: TURANDOT: Nessun dorma - Jose Carreras

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful Carreras!.......1999-03-21

Carreras while still in his prime

Average customer rating: Enchanting

Rossini - La Pietra del Paragone / Mingardo, Matteuzi, Spagnoli, Fradilha, Aprea, Festival della Valle d'Itria Gioachino Rossini , Sara Mingardo , William Matteuzzi , Bruno Aprea , Jose Fardilha , Marco Camastra , Maria Cristina Zanni , and Pietro Spagnoli Manufacturer: Bongiovanni ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B0000044A8 Release Date: 1996-07-09

Tracks:

1. Act One, Scene One - Orch Sinfonica Di Graz/Coro Da Camera Sluk Di Bratislava/Bruno Aprea
2. Act One, Scene One: Del Conte Asdrubale - Coro Da Camera Sluk Di Bratislava/Bruno Aprea
3. Act One, Scene One: 'Ombretta'..... - Marco Camastra
4. Act One, Scene Three: Mille Vati Ai Suolo Io Stendo - Jose Fardilha/William Matteuzzi
5. Act One, Scene Four: Quel Dirmi, Oh Dio! Non T'Amo - Sara Mingardo
6. Act One, Scene Four: Eco Pietosa - Sara Mingardo
7. Act One, Scene Five: Se Di Certo Io Non Sapessi - Pietro Spagnoli
8. Act One, Scene Six: Conte, Udite - Pietro Spagnoli/Sara Mingardo
9. Act One, Scene Seven: Dove Mai Si Caccio - Maria Cristina Zanni
10. Act One, Scene Seven: Ombretta Sdegnosa - Marco Camastra
11. Act One, Scene Eight: Eccomi Ai Vostri Cenni - Gioacchino Zarrelli
12. Act One, Scene Nine: Vol Volete, E Non Volete - Sara Mingardo/Pietro Spagnoli/William Matteuzzi/Jose Fardilha
13. Act One, Scene Ten: Come Va, Donna Fulvia? - Elisabetta Gutierrez
14. Act One, Scene Ten: Chi E Cloei Che S'Avvicina - Jose Fardilha
15. Act One, Scene Eleven: Il Conte Asdrubale - Coro Da Camera Sluk Di Bratislava/Bruno Aprea
16. Act One, Scene Twelve: Oh Caso Orribile - Elisabetta Gutierrez/Maria Cristina Zanni
17. Act One, Scene Thirteen: Lui Star Conta - Pietro Spagnoli/Jose Fardilha/Elisabetta Gutierrez/Maria Cristina Zanni/Gioacchino Zarrelli...

Tracks:

1. Act One, Scene Fourteen: Non Serve A Vil Politica - Sara Mingardo/Pietro Spagnoli/William Matteuzzi
2. Act One, Scene Fifteen: Marchesina...Contessina - Jose Fardilha/Marco Camastra/Elisabetta Gutierrez/Maria Cristina Zanni/Sara Mingardo...
3. Act One, Scene Fifteen: Viva, Viva! - Jose Fardilha/Marco Camastra/Elisabetta Gutierrez/Maria Cristina Zanni/Sara Mingardo...
4. Act Two, Scene One: Lo Stranier Con Le Pive Nel Sacco - Maria Cristina Zanni/Elisabeth Guiterrez/Jose Fardilha/Pietro Spagnoli/William Matteuzzi...
5. Act Two, Scene Two: Nel Vicin Bosco Amici - Pietro Spagnoli
6. Act Two, Scene Three: A Caccia, O Mio Signore - Coro Da Camera Sluk Di Bratislava/Bruno Aprea
7. Act Two, Scene Three: Si, Si, Ci Parlermo - Marco Camstra
8. Act Two, Scene Four: Oh, Come Il Fosco...Quell'Alme Pupille - William Matteuzzi
9. Act Two, Scene Five: Amici! Oh Qual D'Una Sorella - Sara Mingardo/Pietro Spagnoli/William Matteuzzi/Jose Fardilha
10. Act Two, Scene Six: Prima Fra Voi Coll'Armi - Pietro Spagnoli/Jose Fardilha/William Matteuzzi
11. Act Two, Scene Seven: Eccolo - Gioacchino Zarrelli
12. Act Two, Scene Eight: Se L'Itale Contrade...Amor Trionfi - Sara Mingardo/Coro Da Camera Sluk Di Bratislava/Bruno Aprea
13. Act Two, Scene Eight: Scusate, Capitan - Pietro Spagnoli
14. Act Two, Scene Eight: Ah! Se Destarti In Seno - Pietro Spagnoli
15. Act Two, Last Scene: Count, Io Spero - Sara Mingardo
16. Act Two, Last Scene: Voi Clarice? - William Matteuzzi/Pietro Spagnoli/Sara Mingardo/Elisabetta Gutierrez/Jose Fardilha/Marco Camastra

Customer Reviews:

Enchanting.......2007-02-23

This is one of the rare moments in recorded opera when outstanding musicians and singers create a perfect synthesis that transcends any one's individual abilities. All four principals are in wonderful voice, the direction is exuberant without being overblown, the ensemble singing is particularly wonderful. This is a live performance, so there are coughs, footfalls, and of course the sound of applause, but the setting (at the Martina Franca Festival) feels intimate and warm and you feel you're there. My previous favorite Rossini was the Abbado/Baltsa "Italiana in Algeri" but this may replace it. The names here aren't superstars but no matter--the production glows.

Average customer rating:

Rossini: Comic Overtures Manufacturer: Intersound Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | 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 ASIN: B00000DGW0 Release Date: 1998-09-22

Tracks:

1. Il Barbiere Di Siviglia
2. La Scala Di Seta
3. L'Italiana In Algeri
4. Il Signor Bruschino
5. Il Turco In Italia
6. La Cenerentola
7. La Cambiale Di Matrimonio
8. La Pietra Del Paragone

Meditation Music:

1. Rossini: Maometto Secondo [Box set]
2. Rossini: Mosè
3. Rossini, Puccini, Lehar and others
4. Ruggiero Leoncavallo: Gli Zingari
5. Saint-Saëns: Samson et Dalila
6. Save the World
7. Verdi and Puccini Arias
8. Verdi Arias
9. Verdi: Il Trovatore
10. Verdi: La Traviata

Meditation Music

meditation music

Meditation Music

Accidentally on Purpose [Original recording remastered]

Alfredo Casella: Piano Music

Anthology of Guitar Music, Vol. 5

Music: All I Ever Wanted (Devotion) [CD-single] [Import]

Aerodynamic [CD-single] [Import]

Ahead, Vol. 1

A Tiempo de Danzon

5 (REISSUED WITH 2 BONUS TRACKS) [Extra tracks]

3345, Pt. 2 [CD-single] [Enhanced] [Import]

A Robert Shaw Christmas - Angels on High

1927-1932

15 Super Hits

Acariciame el Alma

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Blowin' Country