A la Legere [Import]

1. Les Cles Du Paradis

2. Les Avalanches

3. La Legere

4. Plus Lion De Ta Rue

5. Trouble

6. Bulle

7. Love Slow Motion

8. Si Tout Etait Faux

9. L'autre Moi

10. Pleine Lune

11. Simple En Francais

12. C'est Comme Ca

Customer Reviews:

Valuable compendium.......2007-01-24

This set is extremely valuable, not only as an overview of Dame Joans career but because it contains three complete LP sets that have been very hard to find. The sets are the 2 LP French opera (operetta) set, the Mozart album and the Wagner album. Although some of these do not show her to her best advantage (the Wagner set) they all have some very beautiful things and the French items are superb. The annotations and photos are interesting as well and there are some piano songs with Bonynge that are released here for the first time along with a scene from a live Covent Garden Norma.

Rareties available on CD at last!.......2006-03-29

While Joan Sutherland has recorded a number of impressive aria collections throughout the many years of her recording career, they tend to get lost in the shuffle of the countless reissues Decca/London has endlessly repackaged. While some of the original collections have appeared intact on CD--"The Art of the Prima Donna," "The Age of Bel Canto," "Love Live Forever" (her operetta collection that was originally titled "The Golden Age of Operetta"), to name a few--others are currently represented in the CD catalogue by only a few selections on discs that also include excerpts from complete opera recordings or duplicates of selections from other original collections. As a result, it has been impossible to assemble a CD collection of her recordings without a LOT of duplication, and some of the most interesting collections are still unavailable (e.g. "Command Performance" and "Serate Musicale").

While this newest set does include a lot of bits of this and that, ranging from her very first LPs to excerpts from complete recordings most Sutherland fans already have and a few "live" performances, what is perhaps most significant about it is that it features the complete contents of the "Sutherland Sings Wagner" LP--a real repertoire departure for her--and the double-LP album called "French Opera Gala" (in the U.S.--the British title was "Romantic French Arias"), neither of which, to the best of my knowledge, has been available on CD before. "Opera News" magazine once ran an article in which they asked various stars to name the one album that they felt best represented their artistry for future generations, and Dame Joan selected the "French Opera Gala," so for Sutherland fans, this is a long-awaited treat.

I'm not going to waste space saying how miraculous I consider Dame Joan's artistry. If you are familiar with her work already, you know whether you adore her or not; and if you aren't, this massive set is probably not the best place to start (that would be "The Art of the Prima Donna" album that introduced her to most listeners decades ago)--especially since this newest set doesn't contain the lyrics, a must for newcomers. Let's hope Decca/London gets around to releasing the rest of her recordings intact instead of endlessly scrambling and repackaging the same selections over and over.

Heavenly.......2006-01-31

I first heard of Dame Sutherland while on the internet while listening to a internet radio station. I was instantly a fan, her control, technique, and tone is perfectly executed and rivals the equally fantastic Maria Callas. She has a powerful voice and presence that will evoke every emotion from her listeners. Highly recommended to all Opera Diva fans.

WHO ELSE CAN SING LIKE THIS TODAY?.......2005-04-10

This is Decca's second multi disc evaluation of this fantastic singer's long career and many recordings. True that a lot on the first set is duplicated here, but there are a few exceptions here and there that make it a worthy addition. Of particular interest are the very early items of Handel and Italian baroque arias, some forgotten song recordings and a live performance of the duet from Norma. It can't be said too many times - who can sing like this today? For sheer vocalism it's hard to find anyone on the same wavelength. This set will give very young opera goers an idea of what they missed.

Anne Sofie von Otter - Beethoven, Meyerbeer, Spohr ~ Lieder / Melvyn Tan

Average customer rating:

Good sing

Anne Sofie von Otter - Beethoven, Meyerbeer, Spohr ~ Lieder / Melvyn Tan
Giacomo Meyerbeer , Louis Spohr , Ludwig van Beethoven , Anne Sofie von Otter , and Melvyn Tan
Manufacturer: Archiv Produktion
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Otter, Anne Sophie von | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Lamento
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ASIN: B00005M05D
Release Date: 2001-08-14

Tracks:

40 Melodies: No.12. Mina (Lied Des Venezianischen Gondoliers)
40 Melodies: No.6. Komm (Eigentlich: Du Schones Fischermadchen)
40 Melodies: No.16. Ma Barque Legere
40 Melodies: No.22. La Fille De L'air
40 Melodies: No.27. Sicilienne
40 Melodies: No.28. Priere D'enfants
40 Melodies: No.29. Le Voeu Pendant L'orage
Das Schafers Lied (Hirtenlied) - Anne Sofie Von Otter//Eric Hoeprich/Melvyn Tan
In Questa Tomba Oscura, WoO 133 (2. Ver)
T'intendo Si, Mio Cor, Op.82 No.2
Als Di Geliebte Sich Trennen Wollte (Empfindungen Bei Lydiens Untreue), WoO 132
Seufzer Eines Ungeliebten - Gegenliebe, WoO 118
Sehnsucht, WoO 146
An Die Geliebte, WoO 140 (2. Ver)
Ariette (Der Kuss), Op.128
Maigesang, Op.52 No.4
Adelaide, Op.46
Sechs Deutsche Lieder, Op.154: 1. Abend-Feier - Anne Sofie Von Otter/Melvyn Tan/Christina Hogman/Kristana Hammarstrom/Eric Hoeprick/Nils-Erik Sparf
Sechs Deutsche Lieder, Op.154: 2. Jagdlied - Anne Sofie Von Otter/Melvyn Tan/Christina Hogman/Kristana Hammarstrom/Eric Hoeprick/Nils-Erik Sparf
Sechs Deutsche Lieder, Op.154: 3. Tone - Anne Sofie Von Otter/Melvyn Tan/Christina Hogman/Kristana Hammarstrom/Eric Hoeprick/Nils-Erik Sparf
Sechs Deutsche Lieder, Op.154: 4. Erlkonig - Anne Sofie Von Otter/Melvyn Tan/Christina Hogman/Kristana Hammarstrom/Eric Hoeprick/Nils-Erik Sparf
Sechs Deutsche Lieder, Op.154: 5. Der Spielmann Und Seinne Geige - Anne Sofie Von Otter/Melvyn Tan/Christina Hogman/Kristana Hammarstrom/Eric Hoeprick/Nils-Erik Sparf
Sechs Deutsche Lieder, Op.154: 6. Abendstille - Anne Sofie Von Otter/Melvyn Tan/Christina Hogman/Kristana Hammarstrom/Eric Hoeprick/Nils-Erik Sparf

Amazon.com

A new disc from Anne Sofie von Otter always arouses eager expectation, whatever the repertoire. None of the composers featured on this recording of Lieder and Mélodies is regarded primarily for his songwriting prowess, yet von Otter conjures winner after winner. Even at their lightest, these pieces never fail to charm, and some of them do a good deal more than that.

Listen to the way that Meyerbeer reflects the text of "La Fille de l'air" (The daughter of the air) in the tinkling accompaniment, superbly realized by Melvyn Tan. Or the way the arching violin arabesques spice up the vocal line in the first of Spohr's irresistible Six Lieder. And Beethoven's tolling "In questa tomba oscura" (In this dark grave) is a small masterpiece, as is, in a quite different vein, Meyerbeer's deceptively simple "Sicilienne." It is only in some of the darker songs (such as Meyerbeer's setting of "Le Voeu pendant l'orage") that the difference between prodigious talent and genius is made explicit. And, of course, comparison between Spohr's timid "Erlkönig" and Schubert's infernal creation is as inevitable as it is cruel.

As one would expect from such an experienced lieder artist, the program is beautifully constructed, with songs carefully placed for maximal variety, not just of tone but also of instrumentation (excellent playing from clarinetist Eric Hoeprich and violinist Nils-Erik Sparf). This is another winner from von Otter and friends. --Harriet Smith

Customer Reviews:

Good sing.......2001-09-23

This is a nifty collection of lieder, including many which are not familiar. Melvin Tan's fortepiano balances the voice nicely, and the addition of other instruments and voices obviates the boredom which often sets in after five or ten songs. Von Otter handles these songs well, rarely breaking into operatic timbre. The new (to me) setting of The Earl-King was especially interesting. Very worthwhile if you like lieder (texts are in German, mostly; translation included).

Average customer rating:

Nice introduction to the range of Anno Moffo's talents
My Introduction to Anna Moffo
Absolutely delightful!
Anna Moffo Now Sings In Heaven: From A Fan
a fine singer

Arias

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Mozart: Arias
La Bohème
Verdi: La Traviata
French Opera Arias (Dig)
Verdi: Rigoletto

ASIN: B00001R3MX
Release Date: 1999-10-12

Tracks:

Faust: Air Des Bijoux-Jewel Song
La Boheme: Mi Chiamano Mimi
Dinorah: Ombre Legere-Shadow Song
Carmen: Je Dis Querien Ne M'epouvante(Micaela's Air)
Semiramide: Bel Raggio Lusinghier
Turandot: Signore, Ascolta
Turandot: Tu Che Di Gel Sei Cinta
Lakme: Lakme: Air des clochettes/Bell Song

Customer Reviews:

Nice introduction to the range of Anno Moffo's talents.......2007-01-12

This CD, "Arias," sung by soprano Anna Moffo is a pleasurable work. Some of the works fit Moffo's lovely lyric voice perfectly (the Puccini and Bizet works), whereas others (some of the works calling for coloratura technique) test her skills. This album features solid conducting by Tullio Serafin; the orchestra does a good job (for the most part) of supporting Moffo's singing.

Gounod's "Jewel Song" opens this CD. Moffo displays a lovely lyric voice. In the passages calling for coloratura skills, she displays a serviceable (but not great) trill; her voice is agile; at the conclusion of this aria, she moves to high notes with high volume, and does not fall prey to the unpleasant sound often emitted by Maria Callas under like circumstances. "Si, mi chiamano Mimi" from "La Boheme" displays Moffo's voice to best effect. Her singing is ravishing. Her voice seems to work best with works of Verdi and Puccini and the like. Meyerbeer's "The Shadow Song" is not an unalloyed success, although Anna Moffo does a good job essaying this aria. Again, adequate trill, agile voice able to handle coloratura technique. The two items from Puccini's "Turandot" are extremely well done, once more illustrating the affinity of her voice for this repertoire. From Bizet's "Carmen," Moffo does a wonderful turn with "Micaela's Air." Well worth listening to. She takes on Rossini's "Bel raggio lusinghier" from his opera, "Semiramide." This is one of the weaker cuts on this CD. There is not much excitement to this work. Moffo hits the high E at the end, but the note sounds a little harsh as sung. The final work on this CD, "The Bell Song" from Delibes' Lakme, is again competently done. While Moffo displayed bel canto skills, this is clearly not her forte. Nonetheless, an attractive rendering of this work, concluding with a high E at the end, somewhat harshly sung.

All in all, this is a strong CD that displays a considerable range of skills possessed by Anna Moffo. While she was not one of the most skilled coloratura sopranos of the time, she could handle that repertoire. However, in the operas of Puccini and Verdi (especially "La Traviata"), she was one of the best singers of her era.

My Introduction to Anna Moffo.......2006-07-07

This album served as my introduction to the artistry of Anna Moffo. She, like other sopranos who had the "misfortune" of appearing on the opera scene during the supremacy of Joan Sutherland, is often overlooked. Ms. Moffo is sometimes reduced to being little more than a footnote in the catalog of 20th century sopranos and is often referred to as simply being "a good soprano." However, she was more than good, she was one of the greats.

Overall, I was pleased with the majority of the selections on the CD. Her interpretation of the Lakme's Bell Song is not the best on record. Indeed, Sutherland's recordings of the aria are technically superior, but Moffo's performance here is not unsatisfactory. Her coloratura technique is passable, but she seems to be in a rush to get the final High E out of the way (so does Maria Callas on the La Divina 3 album).
Her "Signore, Ascolta," is breathtaking. She takes on the broken spirit of Liu and delivers an emotionally fluid performance.

In similar fashion, she performs the absolute BEST "Tu che di gel sei cinta" I have ever heard. If you buy the CD for no other reason, listen to the way she executes the emotional turmoil of Liu in her singing. Moffo is in total control. For some reason, most sopranos rush through this aria way too quickly, but here, Moffo takes advantage of the beautiful melody/orchestration and offers us a lush, legato performance. She sings in perfect synchronization with the orchestra. It's almost the same effect as if she were accompanying herself on the piano in free meter. I know there are many Maria Callas fans out there (including myself) but not even she can match the emotional depth and sheer vocal coloring that Moffo delivers in this aria.

I'm glad that I purchased this album. Anna Moffo is a genuine, undiscovered treasure for any opera enthusiast. Personally, she sounds very similar to Leontyne Price at times (except with more power in the middle and lower ranges and a more pleasant vibrato). I love the deceptive power of her seemingly demure voice. It has that cosmetically superficial beauty that is immediately pleasing, but just beneath the surface there is a notable muscle power to firmly support the complete vocal package (I love it!) The audio is superb and gives the impression of a grand opera hall. There's much to love about this CD. Don't miss out.

Absolutely delightful!.......2006-03-14

I am not a music specialist as some other reviewers seem to be, but to my ears, this entire collection by Anna Moffo is an absolute delight. Her voice is clear and rich, never strained. I owned this collection on a 33-1/3 RPM many years ago and was excited to see it available again on a CD. If you are one who enjoys well sung opera arias you will treasure these by Anna Moffo.

Anna Moffo Now Sings In Heaven: From A Fan.......2006-03-13

Opera fans may have already received the news (New York Times, LA Times, Opera News, etc) that soprano Anna Moffo died Thursday in a NY Presbyterian Hospital at the age of 73 after her battle with cancer. She was a supermodel-type beautiful, striking Italian-American who graced the stage of the Metropolitan Opera and world opera houses for many years throughout the 50's, 60's and 70's. She was never a prima donna/diva in the ugly sense of the word and she even hosted her own talk show, was married to an NBC network executive. Anna Moffo left us a number or great recordings, including full-length operas and solo albums like this one, one of her earliest albums.

Primarily a lyric-coloratura soprano, Miss Moffo was critically acclaimed for her performances of Violetta in Verdi's Traviata (her Met debut in the 50's), Mimi in La Boheme (which she recorded with Richard Tucker,Robert Merrill and Mary Costa), Lucia Di Lammermoor (she made a film and a recording of it opposite Carlo Bergonzi) Susannah in Le Nozze Di Figaro (which she recorded under Giulini which also starred Elisabeth Schwartzkopff) and she appeared in a film version of Madame Butterfly and made a terrific La Sonnambula. For audiences whose ears were fed the more powerful voices of Maria Callas, Renata Tebaldi and Birgit Nilsson, Anna Moffo was a refreshing, more lyrical change. Her sweet and well-placed voice is handsomely capturesd in this solo album which features the following arias:

Marguerite's Jewel Song From Gounod's Faust
Mimi's Aria from Puccini's La Boheme
Shadow Song from Meyerbeer's Dinorah
Micaela's Aria from Bizet's Carmen
Bel Raggio Lusinger from Rossini's Semiramide
Liu's Arias - Signore Ascolta and Death Scene from Turandot
Bell Song From Lakme

Each of these arias are magically spun in her vocal chords. She has a rich, powerful voice, but it never steps up to the plane of lyrico-spinto. She was the Renee Fleming of her day, a voice that was bright, angelic, beautiful, feminine, alluring, siren-like. Best of all, she was one of those rare sopranos who looked like the heroines they enacted (unlike for example the heavy-set Montserrat Caballe who couldn't physically appeare like the dying courtesan Violetta in Traviata or the fragile Lucia). Now that Miss Moffo has passed on, recordings of hers will definately sell like crazy. This album captures her in her prime and there is no flaw in any of her stylings but I agree with another critic that the Rossini aria "Bel Raggio" is out of her league vocally. She had fine coloratura but it was not at the razzle-dazzle bel canto level of Joan Sutherland or Beverly Sills. Anna Moffo...thanks for the beautiful voice and memories you gave to us. Rest in peace and the applause she will get in Heaven are well-deserved!!

a fine singer.......2005-04-15

Moffo was a fine singer but perhaps not a great one, and in most of the repertory on this disc it unfortunately becomes a critical distinction. Lakme's Bell Song is so pale and lacking in fire it feels almost doused. You cant help but hear Sutherland's defining version from beginning to end, ruining whatever Moffo may have to offer us, which apparently isnt much. Micaela's aria fares better. Other reviews here already speak knowledgably of a number of definite vocal deficiencies in this program, her debut recital disc (1960). The best thing about Moffo's singing is a wide open sound of tremendous ease and technical mastery, at least in the lyric repertory. Hers is an instrument of special cool colors that ravish but rarely electrify (her Traviata is an exception to that), suggesting care is critical in choosing successful roles. Not surprisingly, her later recording of Rachmaninov's ubiquitous 'Vocalise' is one of the finest ever recorded, supple and pure and free, and I think her Violetta ranks among the top five recorded versions - beside Caballe, Sutherland and Cotrubas, surely. I've always thought Moffo a somewhat neglected artist, and that's probably true, but this disc doesnt do much to invigorate new admirers. Tullio Serafin conducts a sumptuous sounding Rome Opera Orchestra with characteristic elan, what an opera man he was! On the whole, this recording probably deserves four stars, but the Bell Song that closes the program is a REALLY dismal experience.

Average customer rating:

Delightful...
You want a French Coloratura? Buy Lily Pons instead
Dessay Sparkles in Familiar and Rare French Opera Arias
Highly Enjoyable
I can't say enough!

Natalie Dessay - French Opera Arias
Ambroise Thomas , Giacomo Meyerbeer , Jacques Offenbach , Emmanuel Bondeville , Emmanuel Chabrier , Darius Milhaud , Maurice Ravel , Francis Poulenc , Charles Gounod , Henri Sauguet , Patrick Fournillier , Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo , Natalie Dessay , and Charles Burles
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Amor: Opera Scenes and Lieder by Richard Strauss

ASIN: B000002RWM
Release Date: 1997-02-18

Tracks:

Lakme - Acte II: Air des clochettes : (Ou va la jeune indoue)
Le Rol malgre lul - Acte II: Chanson tzigane : 'Il est un vieux chant de Boheme'
L'eole des maris: Air du Feu : 'Arriere ! Je rechauffe les bons'
Le Pardan de Ploermel: Air : 'Ombre legere'
L'Ecole des maris - Acte II: 'O ciel, pardonne encore... De tout temps la gent masculine'
Hamlet - Acte IV: Scene de la folie : 'A vos jeux mes amis'
Medee: Premier Tableau - Air : 'Chers Corinthiens' - Creuse
Les Contes d'Hoffmann - Acte II: Chanson : 'Les oiseaux dans la charmille' - Olympia
Les Mamelles de Tlreslas - Acte I: Scene : 'Non, Monsieur mon mari' Therese
Mirillle - Acte I: Valse-ariette : 'O, legere hirondelle' - Mireille
Les Caprices de Marlanne - Acte I: Air : 'O, amour, mysterieux armour' - Marianne

Customer Reviews:

Delightful..........2006-06-08

The repertoire on this CD is amazing; it's not easy to find a CD with some of this arias, that are rarely found in recordings (like "O legere hirondelle"). Also, her singing is fantastic: her voice is light and clear, pure high notes and amazing runs. She's a great coloratura! And I believe that this is a great CD to have.

You want a French Coloratura? Buy Lily Pons instead.......2005-12-26

Natalie Dessay, while a true coloratura and nothing else but a coloratura, has incredible high notes (but not as incredible as Mady Mesple or Pons, those will stop your heart cold, they are so amazing) but lacks in middle range and her interpertation is rather non exsistent. I heard that is is a gifted actress but none of it reads in her recordings. Her tone is often grating and usually seems slightly forced. I prefer before my time singers such as Maria Callas, Joan Sutherland, Medy Mesple (if you have not heard her, buy a cd NOW!) and of course, Lily Pons whose high notes are so effortless and breathtaking they don't even seem human. Natalie Dessay, sadly, does not impress me at all and frankly I don't understand why everyone is so enraptured with her. She's fine and yes, talented, but I'm just not feeling her singing. It just doesn't work for me. Wish she'd stop singing all the french, I get it, you're french but putting out like three french albums in a relatively short timeframe is kind of overkill.

Dessay Sparkles in Familiar and Rare French Opera Arias.......2004-05-15

Natalie Dessay is, without a doubt, one of the most impressive coloratura sopranos of this century. And there is no better way to experience her voice and artistry than to hear her singing in her native tongue. This CD presents Dessay in a refreshing presentation of arias from both the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, combining both well known music with some more modern rarities. The recital begins by presenting the soprano in music that fits her like a glove, "Où va la jeune indoue", the Bell Song from Delibes 'Lakmé'. It is a joy to hear Dessay creating a dreamy atmosphere, with full attention to the words and fearless in her attack of stacatti and high notes. She even sings the final high E in a crescendo. This Cd is high note feast, up to a sustained high A flat in "Ombre légère" from Meyerbeer's 'Le Pardon de Ploermel'. However, the stratopheric high notes are only part of the assets of Dessay. She is also willing to concentrate on character, something specially evident in the pieces from more modern operas. In "Arrière! Je réchaufe les bons" from Ravel's 'L'enfant et les sortilèges' her use of portamento makes this Fire commanding and menacing. Another delight is the feminist aria "No Monsieur mon mari" from 'Les Mammelles de Tirésias'by Poulenc she is a dynamo of energy and humor. Her Olympia and Ophélie are in the tradition of the great French coloratura sopranos like Pons, Robin and Mesplé. The CD ends beautifully with a sweet and poetic rendition of "O, amour, mystérieux amour", an unknown jewel from 'Les Caprices de Marianne' by Sauguet. This aria ends the recital in a high note both literally and metaphorically, with Dessay in a spectacular cadenza with pin point stacattos and a stunning high E than begins softly then goes louder until it goes again to pianissimo. The Orchestre Philarmonique de Monte-Carlo conducted by Patrick Fournillier complement Dessay's artistry beautifully. There are no weak point on this recital: these are sixty five minutes of pure joy.

Highly Enjoyable.......2003-06-04

To compare Dessay to Mado Robin or Erna Sack or Mady Mesple is simply ludicrous. She is in a different class. She can charachterise better than all of the above, she reaches all the notes with more ease, and she simply has the agility which none of those artists really have. Mesple was good for other things, but she wouldn't sing this repertoire, so please, spare us the gumph. Dessay is a fabulous artist, a light colloratura that travels with ease in the stratospheric heigths of the arias she performs. While there is not much on this disc of heartbreaking depth, it is very well sung. Occasionally the voice strikes one as a bit piercing, but generally there is more warmth than Sumi Jo, and less unsteadiness than Gruberova. I will not enter into a "spot-the-highest notes" contest, but enough to say the high(est) notes are all there. Light but highly enjoyable fare

I can't say enough!.......2001-08-11

Natalie Dessay is the coloratura of our generation! Her voice is extremely impressive. Every album she releases has the vocal fireworks that any music lover wants from their sopranos. This album features some of the world's most beautiful French music. Her "Doll Song" is so fun and full of laughter and of course the high notes. The other highlights for me are Meyerbeer's "Ombre legere" and the "Bell Song" from Lakme. No other coloratura performing today can measure up to the power and strength that Natalie has with those gorgeous notes. She may not warm your heart when down in her mid-range but when she climbs up you can't help but open your mouth and say, now that's a note! Pay close attention to the super high G at the end of "Ombre legere". Wow!

Average customer rating:

32 tracks in 10
Domingo, Freni, Ghiurov, Success!
A Faust That Soars

Charles Gounod: Faust (Highlights)

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Freni, Mirella | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Gounod: Faust (Complete Opera); Domingo, Freni, Ghiaurov, Allen, Pretre
Gounod: Faust (Highlights)

ASIN: B000002S0Y
Release Date: 1989-06-06

Tracks:

Act II - 'Vin ou bi'
Act II - 'O sainte m?daille...Avant de quitter ces lieux...Le veau d'or est toujours debout' (Mephistopheles)
Act II - 'Nous nous retrouvons mes amis! ...Ainsi que la brise legere...Ne permettrez-vous pas, ma belle demoiselle' (Mephistopheles, Faust, Marguerite)
Act III - 'Quel trouble inconnu me ptre!..Salut! demeure chaste et pure' (Faust)
Act III - 'Je voudrais bien savoir...Il etait un roi de Thule...Ah!...Je ris' (Marguerite)
Act III - 'Il se fait tard!.. Adi ( Marguerite, Faust)
Act IV - 'Seigneur, daignez permettre...Souviens-toi du passe...Quand du Seigneur' (Mephistopheles, Marguerite)
Act IV - 'Glorie immortelle de nos aieux'
Act IV - 'Vous qui faitl'endormie (Mephistopheles )
Act V - 'Alerte, alerte...Anges purs, anges radieux...Christ est ressuscite' (Mephistopheles, Marguerite, Faust) )

Customer Reviews:

32 tracks in 10.......2007-08-01

The problem with this CD is that songs are not separate. They blended 32 tracks into 10. It's very hard to listen to when you want to get to your favorite aria. I wish they could've cut the songs properly. There exists a CD with Ghiaurov as Faust (other are Corelli and Sutherland) with properly cut tracks.
Other than that, 5 stars for the music alone.

Domingo, Freni, Ghiurov, Success!.......2005-08-09

Faust has never sounded more lush and dramatic than in the hands of these seasoned singers. Placido Domingo as Faust is appropriately conflicted, emotional and romantic. He gets into character from his first scene as he curses God for his futile existence and old age and to his last scene when he is dragged to Hell. Mirella Freni is in fine voice as Marguerite, truly her performance is the greatest of all possible Marguerites on record or stage. She's got a full lyric voice that soars with passionate intensity (the Church scene and the last scene in which she tries to save Faust from damnation and she's sent to Heaven). Her husband (or soon to be husband depending on the time of this recording) bass Nicolai Ghiurov, a great Russian bass, is on fire as the Devil, with all the darkness and power in his vocal performance alone. George Petre, a famed French conductor leads a primarily French orchestra with singers who are absolutely brilliant in their mastery of the French text. This cd offers only highlights (not the full-length recording available on Amazon.com as well). Here are the Waltz, the Calf Song, Marguerite's ornate "Jewel Aria" the Church Scene complete with demonic chorus, and the outstanding Final Trio (Ange Pure Ange Radieux)which I feel could somehow be better but is not all that bad. A great highlights CD.

A Faust That Soars.......2005-03-17

This recording of Gounod's Faust made in the late 70's, stars Placido Domingo, Mirella Freni and Nicolai Ghiuarov, a powerful trio which is reason enough in itself to seek this album for purchase. Opera fanatics, such as myself, are never content with one recording of one opera, when they can indulge in a variety of singers and styles of conducting. I own this recording and the one with Hadley, Gasdia and Samuel Ramey. Now, while I think this is a great Faust, it is only second best to the recording with Hadley/Gasdia/Ramey, mainly because the real spirit of the work, active in the orchestration and especially in the bass voice of Samuel Ramey, is more true to Charles Gounod's vision. This one, though, holds its own, mainly through the dramatic prowess and rich vocals of tenor Placido Domingo, soprano Mirella Freni and her husband bass Nicolai Ghiurov. Pretre, who is French, is also enjoying his slow pace of conducting, probably slowing down what ought to be faster so as to focus on the lush lyric beauty of the French style of the lead singers who have mastered the French technique down to a "T". Superb, top-notch performances by all three lead singers is what makes this album so attractive. These are only highlights from the full length album. In this album, we find the opening chorus, the Waltz and the scene in which Faust meets Marguerite in person for the first time, the Devil's "Calf Song", Marguerite's "Jewel Song", the Church Scene in which Marguerite prays while the Devil and demons mock her, and the awesome Trio Finale "Ange Pure, Ange Radieux".

For Gounod, Faust proved a masterpiece and the one opera that would become a standard repertoire for most opera companies at that time and now. The Met opened in the 1880's with Faust. It's the tragic tale of a pathetic elderly scholar/scientist who longs for eternal life and youth and romance. When the Devil tempts him with a vision of the beautiful village girl Marguerite, and offers him youth and good looks, he makes a deal with the Devil, offering up his soul. The plan takes effect when Marguerite, seduced by jewelry and materialistic things, is seduced by Faust. She eventually becomes pregnant with his baby. At the end of the opera, Faust is dragged to Hell while Marguerite is saved and ascends to Heaven. Faust, written by the German writer Goethe, figured in a lot of Romantic Era 19th century music. Berlioz composed La Damnation De Faust and Boito wrote "Mephistophele", while the "diabolically radical" composer Franz Liszt enjoyed composing themes on Faust and symphonic poems about it.

The Prima Voce Treasury of Opera, Vol. 2

Average customer rating:

Fabulous!

The Prima Voce Treasury of Opera, Vol. 2

Manufacturer: Nimbus Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | 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 | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Ladino | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Prima Voce Treasury of Opera, Vol. 1
The Golden Age of Singing, Vol. 4; 1930-1950
The Golden Age of Singing: Vol. 3 1920-1930
The Golden Age of Singing, Volume One 1900 - 1910
Golden Age of Singing Vol.2 (1910-20)

ASIN: B00004Z3J5
Release Date: 2000-11-28

Tracks:

Manon Lescaut: C'est L'Histoire Amoreuse (L'Eclat De Rire) - Amelita Galli-Curci
Manon Lescaut: Donna Non Vidi Mai - Beniamino Gigli
Manon Lescaut: In Quelle Trine Morbide - Rosa Ponselle
Martha: M'Appari Tutto Amor - Tito Schipa
May Night: How Quiet Here...Sleep, My Beauty - Boris Slovtsov
Mefistofele: L'Altra Notte In Fondo Al Mare - Claudia Muzio
Mefistofele: Giunto Sul Passo Estremo - Beniamino Gigli
Die Meistersinger: Morgenlich Leuchtend Im Rosigen Schein - Lauritz Melchior
Mignon: Connais-Tu Le Pays? - Conchita Supervia
Mignon: Addio, Mignon - Tito Schipa
Mignon: Io Son Titania - Luisa Tetrazzini
Mignon: De Son Coeur J'ai Calme (Berceuse) - Ezio Pinza
Mireille: O Legere Hirondelle - Frieda Hempel
Norma: Sediziose Voci...Casta Diva - Rosa Ponselle
Le Nozze Di Figaro: Se Vuol Ballare - Giuseppe De Luca
Le Nozze Di Figaro: No So Piu - Conchita Supervia
Le Nozze Di Figaro: Voi Che Sapete? - Elisabeth Schumann

Tracks:

Der Opernball: Im Chambe Separee - Herbert Ernst Groh
Otello: Ora E Per Sempre Addio - Enrico Caruso
Otello: E Qual Certezza Sognate...Era La Notte - Lawrence Tibbett
Otello: Ave Maria - Eide Norena
Pagliacci: Si Puo? - Lawrence Tibbett
Pagliacci: Recitar...Vesti La Giubba - Beniamino Gigli
Pagliacci: Serenata D'Arlecchino - Tito Schipa
I Pescatori Di Perle: Del Tempio Al Limitar - Beniamino Gigli/Giuseppe De Luca
I Pescatori Di Perle: Mi Par D'Udir Ancora - Beniamino Gigli
La Perichole: Tu N'Es Pas Beau - Maggie Teyte
La Perle Du Bresil: Charmant Oiseau - Amelita Galli-Curci/Clement Barone
Porgy And Bess: Summertime - Helen Jepson
Porgy And Bess: Where Is My Bess? - Lawrence Tibbett
Le Postillon De Lonjumeau: Mes Amis, Ecoutez - Helge Roswaenge/Berlin State Opera Chor
Prince Igor: Galitzky's Song - Feodor Chaliapin
Prince Igor: Jaroslavna's Aria - Nina Koshetz

Tracks:

I Puritani: A Te O Cara - Giacomo Lauri-Volpi
I Puritani: Qui La Voce Sua Soave - Amelita Galli-Curci
Rienzi: Allmacht' Ger Vater, Blick' Herab - Lauritz Melchior
Rigoletto: Questa A Quella - John McCormack
Rigoletto: Caro Nome - Amelita Galli-Curci
Rigoletto: Ella Mi Fu Rapita...Parmi Veder Le Lagrime - Enrico Caruso
Rigoletto: Povero Rigoletto...Cortigiani, Vil Razza Dannata - Giuseppe De Luca/Grace AnthonyMetropolitan Opera House Chor
Rigoletto: La Donna E Mobile - Jussi Bjorling
Rinaldo: Lascia Ch'io Pianga - Ernestine Schumann-Heink
Risurrezione: Dieu De Grace - Mary Garden
Le Roi D'Ys: Vainement Ma Bien Aimee - Beniamino Gigli
Romeo Et Juliette: Je Veux Vivre Dans Ce Reve - Yevgeniya Bronskaya
Romeo Et Juliette: Cavatina...Ah! Leve-Toi Soleil - Dmitri Smirnov
Der Rosenkavalier: Ist Ein Traum, Kann Nicht Wirklich Sein - Erna Berger/Tiana Lemnitz

Tracks:

Sadko: Chanson Hindoue - Beniamino Gigli
Sadko: Berceuse - Nina Koshetz
Samson Et Dalila: Printemps Qui Commence - Conchita Supervia
Samson Et Dalila: Mon Coeur S'Ouvre A Ta Voix - Marian Anderson
Lo Schiavo: Quando Nacesti Tu - Giacomo Lauri-Volpi
Semele: O Sleep, Why Dost Thou Leave Me? - John McCormack
Simon Boccanegra: A Te L'Estremo Addio...Il Lacerato Spirito - Alexander Kipnis
The Snow Maiden: Full Of Wonders - Boris Slovstov
La Sonnambula: Ah, Non Credea Mirarti - Claudia Muzio
La Sonnambula: Ah! Non Giunge - Liusa Tetrazzini
Tannhauser: Dir Tone Lob - Lauritz Melchior
Tannhauser: Dich Teure Halle - Tiana Lemnitz
Tannhauser: Allmacht'ge Jungfrau (Elisabeth's Prayer) - Kirsten Flagstad
Tannhauser: O Du Mein Holder Abendstern - Marcel Journet
Tosca: Recondita Armonia - Giovanni Martinelli
Tosca: Vissi D'Arte - Geraldine Farrar
Tosca: E Lucevan La Stelle - Jussi Bjorling

Tracks:

Die Tote Stadt: Gluck, Das Mir Verblieb - Richard Tauber/Lotte Lehmann
La Traviata: Ah! Fors E Lui...Sempre Libera - Luisa Tetrazzini
La Traviata: De' Miei Bollenti Spiriti - John McCormack
La Traviata: Addio Del Passato - Luisa Tetrazzini
La Traviata: Parigi O Cara - John McCormack/Lucrezia Bori
Tristan Un Isolde: Liebestod - Frida Leider
Il Trovatore: Tacea La Notte Placida - Rosa Ponselle
Il Trovatore: Il Balen Del Suo Sorriso - Heinrich Schlusnus
Il Trovatore: Di Quella Pira - Giovanni Martinelli
The Tsar's Bride: Liuba's Air - Alma Gluck
Turandot: Signore, Ascolta - Lotte Schone
Turandot: Nessun Dorma - Giacomo Lauri-Volpi
La Vestale: O Nume Tutelar - Rosa Ponselle
Die Walkure: Du Bist Der Lenz - Kirsten Flagstad
Die Walkure: Wintersturme Wichen Dem Wonne Mond - Lauritz Melchior
Werther: Va! Laisse Couler Mes Larmes - Ninon Vallin
Werther: Ah! Non Mi Ridestar - Tito Schipa
Die Zauberflote: Der Vogelfanger Bin Ich Ja - Gerhard Husch
Die Zauberflote: Dies Bildnis Ist Bezaubernd Schon - Richard Tauber
Die Zauberflote: Der Holle Rache - Erna Berger
Die Zauberflote: Ach, Ich Fuhl's - Tiana Lemnitz

Customer Reviews:

Fabulous!.......2001-03-11

This is an amazing collection of arias from the early 1900s through the 1930s (there is one 1942 cut). The sound transfers, made from pristine 78 records, are excellent, especially considering the age of the recordings. This CD is a splendid overview of the outstanding artists of their day, and while many of them are no longer (opera) household names, their singing is first rate. Not only would this be a great CD for an opera history buff, it is also excellent for someone just learning about opera and wanting to hear opera legends. The price for 5 CDs, each over an hour's worth of listening, is a steal.

Average customer rating:

great album from Sumi Jo
a chanteuse on the loose
Delightful
Very Nice!
customer review

Sumi Jo - Les Bijoux / Carella
Ambroise Thomas , Giuliano Carella , and Georges Bizet
Manufacturer: Erato
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Sumi Jo - Bel Canto / Arevalo · ECO · Carella
Sumi Jo - Virtuoso Arias ~ Verdi, Rossini, Donizetti, Meyerbeer
French Coloratura Arias
Sumi Jo sings Mozart
Sumi Jo - La Promessa / Vincenzo Scalera

ASIN: B00000JLLS
Release Date: 1999-08-03

Tracks:

Romeo et Juliette: Ariette: Je veux vivire dans ce reve...
Faust: L'air Des Bijoux: Ah! Je ris de mi voir si belle en ce miroir!
Mignon: Recht, Polonaise et Finale: Oui, pour ce soir, je suis reine des fees
L'Etoile du Nord: C'est bien l'air que chaque matin
Hamlet: Scen et air d'Ophelie: A vos jeux, mes amis
Louise: Depuis le jour ou je suis donnee
Mireille: La Valse: O legere hirondelle, messagere fidele
Les Hugenots: Acte II, Introduction et Air: O Beux Pays de la Touraine
Manon: Gavotte: Obeissons, quant leur voix appelle
Les pecheurs de perles: Cavatine de Leila: Mi voila a seule dans la nuit
Robinson Crusoe: Conduisez-moi verss celui que j'adore

Amazon.com

Sumi Jo is an exquisite singer, in some ways a throwback to the coloraturas of old, who could dash off high, pure sounds with ease, all the while exuding charm and grace. But unlike too many of those gone warblers, Jo also pays attention to the text--even if the texts for most of these arias tend to be pretty silly. In this new recital, she concentrates on the French repertoire, tossing these jewels at us and making us grab for more. Rarities include arias from Meyerbeer's L'Etoile du Nord, with its two- and then three-flute accompaniment (Sutherland recorded it as well) and an aria from Offenbach's Robinson Crusoe (also recorded by Dame Joan, and Yvonne Kenny--but still rare); favorites are Ophelie's Mad Scene, superbly sung and characterized, Juliette's Waltz Song, all fresh and sweet, and a nicely surprising piece of Meyerbeer's Les Huguenots. It's only in Charpentier's "Depuis le jour" that Jo seems out of her weight class, though the singing is still gorgeous. This is a sure bet for fans of this repertoire and a fine way to meet Sumi Jo if you haven't already. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

great album from Sumi Jo.......2006-10-20

I'm only a recent convert of the charming opera singer Sumi Jo. This is one of my favourite albums, showcasing arias of composers including Gounod, Offenbach, Bizet, and (most surprisingly) Meyerbeer.

The Meyerbeer arias are truly something. Sumi Jo should consider doing a whole album dedicated to his works, but until then, we can savour the "Les Huguenots" and "L'Etoile du Nord" arias.

Sumi Jo's voice has a fantastic, silvery quality, best-suited to the demanding arias on show here. Hers is a precision instrument that hits each and every note perfectly; never does she slide between notes or compromise the quality of the material. Perfection is a tough thing to live up to, but Sumi Jo is perfection.

I heartily recommend this album. [Erato/Warner Music 3984-23140-2]

a chanteuse on the loose.......2002-09-06

Sumi Jo is cleary at ease with the French repetoire and she has some magical moments on this cd, the Meyerbeer stuff especially. The quality of the voice is evident, and she has a certain timbre that seems particularly suited to this literature; light, but totally controlled singing reigns throughout.

Delightful.......2002-02-05

I purchased this CD as a student of coloratura literature (specifically because of "Je suis Titania") and it is my first Sumi Jo recording. While I personally find her voice a little too bright for my taste and, occasionally, she sounds slightly unstable on the top, I still wholeheartedly recommend it. Sumi Jo is an extremely clean coloratura and has a beautiful voice, even if it is something of an acquired tasts if you are used to a more lyric sound. It is no wonder she is considered one of the best coloraturas singing today. Besides praising Sumi Jo, I have to say that this is simply a wonderful collection of music; all of it is lovely! It is truly delightful to listen to.

Very Nice!.......2002-01-17

An excellent demonstration of a beautiful voice. Sumi Jo is at her best. This is a nice purchase for any lover of fine music.

customer review.......2001-08-07

I received this CD by accident as I am not very familiar with ordering from the Internet. I pondered whether or not to open it as when it is open it cannot be returned. I am really glad that I opened it. It is wonderful. I heard about this singer on NPRand it was said that a voice like hers only happens once a century or something like that. She is truly gifted and a wonderful Coloratura soprano. I suggest this CD for anyone like myself that is a high-note junkie.

Ruth Ann Swenson - Positively Golden ~ Colaratura Arias

Average customer rating:

Swenson Coloratura?
A nice introduction to Ruth Ann Swenson
A True Successor
It's only showbiz, but she is real good at it!
Positively golden...!

Ruth Ann Swenson - Positively Golden ~ Colaratura Arias
Gaetano Donizetti , Giacomo Meyerbeer , Vincenzo Bellini , Charles Gounod , Nicola Rescigno , London Philharmonic Orchestra , and Ruth Ann Swenson
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | 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
Similar Items:

Ruth Ann Swenson - Con Amore ~ Italian Opera Arias / Rudel, London SO
Ruth Ann Swenson - i carry your heart / Warren Jones
Ruth Ann Swenson: Endless Pleasure: Handel & Mozart Arias
Sumi Jo - Bel Canto / Arevalo · ECO · Carella
Sumi Jo - Virtuoso Arias ~ Verdi, Rossini, Donizetti, Meyerbeer

ASIN: B000002RTG
Release Date: 1994-08-16

Tracks:

Linda di Chamounix. Act I Recitative and Cavatina: Ah! tardi troppo...O luce di quest' anima
Lucia di Lammermoor.Act I Cavatina: Regnava nel silenzio...Quando, rapito in estasi
I Puritani.Act II Aria: O rendetemi la speme...Que la voce... Vien. diletto
La Sonnambula. Act I Scene and Cavatina: A te diletta... Come per me sereno... Sovra il sen
Romeo et Juliette. Act I Ariette: Je veux vivre
L'Africaine. Act I Romance: Adieu, Mon doux revage... Pour celle qui M'est chere
Les Huguenots. Act II Aria: O Beau pays de la touraine!...A ce Mot seuls'anime
Dinorah. Act II Aria: Ombre legere, qui suis mes pas ( Shadow Song)

Customer Reviews:

Swenson Coloratura? .......2007-03-22

WHEN ARE WE EVER GOING TO HEAR THE BEAUTY OF THE HUMAN VOICE? PLEASE, Listen to the Coloraturas of the Golden Age. This young lady's singing is muddled, hooty, there is no center to the tone and the articulation is muffled. Absolutely no brilliance to the voice. These singers, and even moreso their teachers, should listen to Nezhdanova, Muzio and more. Alas, it is too late - the Golden Age of Singing will not return as long as the correct frequency of the human voice is not developed. 1 Star for the conductor

A nice introduction to Ruth Ann Swenson.......2007-02-09

Ruth Ann Swenson takes on some standard coloratura roles from Bellini and Donizetti and then some examplars from the French repertoire (Gounod and Meyerbeer). In this CD, we see a number of examples of the standard technique of Bellini and Donizetti, with a cabaletta following a slower work. As the Wikipedia puts it: The cabaletta is a "form of aria within 19th century Italian opera. It usually refers specifically to the second half of a double aria: a faster or more rhythmic movement following a cantabile section. . . . Classic examples include "Vien diletto, è in ciel la luna" from I Puritani by Bellini (1835). . . ."

Some samples of her style from this CD. In Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor," we are treated to Swenson's version of "Regnava nel silenzio. . .Quanto rapito in estasi." Hers is a somewhat darker, heavier voice than that of Dessay or Sills (more similar to Netrebko and Callas in that regard). Still the voice is agile; her trill technique is adequate but not noteworthy. In the cabaletta, she shows agility and her florid technique is fine. She is able to hit the higher notes well. In the repeat of "Quanto rapito in estasi," she is fine, but not at the level of top coloraturas such as Dessay or Sills or Sutherland.

Bellini's "I Puritani" features the standard cantabile-cabaletta structure as per the Wikipedia's description above, "Qui la voce. . .Vien, diletto." Classic coloratura territory. In the first part, she shows a nice smoothly sung line. In the cabaletta, she hits the high notes cleanly, Her florid technique is fine but not exciting. Her trills are adequate but not wonderful. In the repeat, her ornamentation moves up a jot. All in all, a competently done--but not exciting--version.

From Bellini's "La Sonnambula," we have "A ti deletta. . .Sovra il sen." Again, Swenson does a technically sound version. There is a very nice trill early on. She floats some higher notes very well. The cabaletta is fine, her florid technique is good, she shows off in this cut a nice trill, and she closes out with a well executed high note.

All in all, Ruth Ann Swenson comes off as a good coloratura soprano with fine technique. She lacks some of the firepower and technique of the top performers, but this is a nice CD in the final analysis.

A True Successor.......2004-03-15

Ruth Ann Swenson is one of the finest coloratura sopranos singing today. Her voice is a seamless, pearly-timbred instrument; her technique is rock-solid. In her first solo CD (recorded in 1993) Swenson concentrates on the bel canto repertory and gives us some of the most assured singing in this since Joan Sutherland. My favorite track is the Act I aria from LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR, in which Swenson conveys Lucia's horror in a stream of eerily pure tone, which then sparkles in the cabaletta, "Quando, rapito in estasi." In both beauty of sound and coloratura virtuosity, Swenson is a very worthy successor to Sutherland and Montserrat Caballe. "Positively Golden" is, so far, my favorite coloratura recital next to Sutherland's "The Art of the Prima Donna."

It's only showbiz, but she is real good at it!.......2001-12-01

Ruth Ann Swenson is like Michael Jordan - a supremely gifted & disciplined athlete, & also a freak of nature. The great basketball player shatters the backboard, the colortura soprano shatters the wine glass. Composers use the colortura aria to show off a certain kind of composing that requires an unreal voice. It's strictly showbiz. Conveying a character - that demonstration of peculiar, exaggerated emotions many opera fans call "acting" - is completely optional. So just crank up the volume, sit back, & let Ms. Swenson raise goosebumps on your neck. That's the job Gounod, Bellini, Donizetti & Meyerbeer gave her to do. & boy, does she do it swell!

Positively golden...!.......2000-06-08

I first heard Ruth Ann Swenson when she was in the Merola Opera Program at SFO, saw and heard her on several occasions that year and have followed her career with interest since then. This album showcases the beauty and perfection of Miss Swenson's voice, and immediately became one of my most favorite coloratura soprano arias recordings.

Average customer rating:

Highly recommended

Coloratura Assoluta

Manufacturer: Sbme Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | 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

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French Coloratura Arias

ASIN: B00000DFNQ
Release Date: 1998-10-20

Tracks:

'Chacun Le Sait'
'Il Faut Partir'
'Et Mon Coeur La Changer
La Fille Du Regiment: 'Salut A La France'
Sadks: 'Song Of India'
Lakme: 'Pourquoi Dans Les Grands Hois?'
Dinorah: 'Ombre Legere' (Shadow Song)
'Regnava Nel Silenzio...Quando Rapita In Estasi'
Lucia Di Lammermoor: 'Il Dolce Suono Mi Colpi...Ardon Gl'Incensi'
Rigoletto: 'Caro Nome'
Lakme: 'Ou Va La Jeunne Hindoue' (Bell Song)
Mireille: 'O Legere Hirondelle'
Romeo Et Juliette: 'Je Veux Vivre'
La Traviata: 'Ah, Fors'e Lui...Sempre Libera'

Tracks:

Le Coq D'Er: 'Hymne Au Soleil'
Les Contes D'Hoffmann: 'Les Oiseaux Dans La Charmille'
Zemire Et Azor: 'La Fauvette'
Mignon: 'Jesuis Titania'
I Puritani: 'Son Vergin Vezzosa'
Linda Di Chamounix: 'O Luce Di Quest' Anima'
La Sonnambula: 'Ah, Non Credea..Ah, Non Giunge'
Porgy And Bess: 'Summertime'
'The Russian Nightingale'
'Fledermaus Fantasy'
'Les Roses D'Ispahan'
'L'invitation Au Voyage'
Chansons De Rensard: 'A Une Fountaine'
Chansons De Rensard: 'A Cupidon'
Chansons De Rensard: 'Tais-Toi, Babillarde'
Chansons De Rensard: 'Dieu Vous Gard'
'Clair De Lune' - Frank La Forge
'Fantoches' - Frank La Forge
'Plaisir D' Amour'
'Home, Sweet Home'

Amazon.com

In many respects, Lily Pons was the Galli-Curci of her generation: a winning combination of good looks, charm, an appealing and non-confrontational timbre, and easy facility in the stratosphere. Those who learned the "Mad Scene" from Lucia di Lammermoor or the "Bell Song" from Lakmé via the original 78s back in the 40s will be bowled over by the vivid detail and lack of background noise in these stunning Sony restorations. First-time listeners will marvel at her effortless passagework and high notes (she often transposed her arias up on records); but may be put off by a slight thinness in the middle register (not evident in her Odeon recordings from the late 20s), sketchy intonation at times, and expedient aspirating in downward scales. Although these selections encompass a gamut of stylistic and emotional contrasts, you'd scarcely know it from the singer's pleasant but characterless interpretations, which tickle the ear without quite racking the brain. --Jed Distler

Customer Reviews:

Highly recommended.......2007-07-09

This could have been recorded yesterday, the sound quality is excellent and without blemish. By far the best recordings of Pons I have, and I would like to have others. She reminds me of Jo, separation of notes, clear, real trills, a range to rival Sumac, flexibility to perfection, and always that today neglected once standard fare of the coloratura, the requisite leap to the top note at the end of an aria. And a pretty sound. I love this album.

Thomas Hampson Sings Rossini & Meyerbeer

Average customer rating:

Great!!!

Thomas Hampson Sings Rossini & Meyerbeer

Manufacturer: EMI Records [All429]
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00000DNQF
Release Date: 1992-04-14

Tracks:

Komm!
Der Garten Des Herzens
Lied Des Venezianischen Gondoliers
Hor' Ich Das Liedchen Klingen
Die Rose, Die Lilie, Die Taube
Sie Und Ich
Menschenfeindlich
Chant Des Moissonneurs Vendeens
La Barque Legere
La Chanson De Maitre Floh
Sicilienne
Le Poete Mourant
Au Chevet D'un Mourant
Le Lazzarone
La Chanson Du Bebe
La Gita In Gondola ('Voli L'agile Barchetta')
II Rimprovero ('Mi Lagnero Tacendo')
Ave Maria
L'ultimo Ricordo

Customer Reviews:

Great!!!.......2003-12-11

I love this album! The Meyerbeer selections are enchanting, and they should be sung more often. The CD shows Hampson's careful artistry and it is a delightful collaboration with pianist Geoffrey Parsons.

World Music:

World Music

world music

World Music

Fly on the Wings of Love (Enhanced) [CD-single] [Import]

Piazzolla/Tschaikowsky: Jahreszeiten

Platinum Rare [Import]

Rage in Eden

No Accomodation for Lagos/No Discrimination

Piano Quartets of Brahms

Opus De Jazz 2 [Limited Edition] [Original recording remastered] [Import]

Open Window

On the Rap Tip

Live in Europe

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