OR 2010 CAT 01-40 N - Opera Rara · master’, Mercadante. ... Ermione – présenté en concert au...

2010-2011

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Opera Rara’s40TH ANNIVERSARY

(1970 --2010)

TO CELEBRATE ITS 40THANNIVERSARY, OPERA RARAHAS COMPILED THISSTUNNING COLLECTION OFHIGHLIGHTS FROM ITSINCOMPARABLE CATALOGUE.IT INCLUDES EXCERPTS FROM THE VERY FIRSTRECORDING, DONIZETTI’S ‘UGO, CONTE DI PARIGI’,THROUGH TO THE RECENT,ROSSINI’S ‘ERMIONE’

ORR248 (1CD) AVAILABLE MAY 2010

THE FIRST FULL OPERARECORDING OF AMERICAN

SUPERSTAR SOPRANO,RENÉE FLEMING, WAS

DONIZETTI’S ‘ROSMONDAD’INGHILTERRA’ FOR OPERA

RARA. FLEMING’S SUPERBDONIZETTIAN SKILLS SHINE

THROUGH IN THIS DISC OFHIGHLIGHTS, RE-RELEASED

TO COINCIDE WITH OPERARARA’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY

ORR214 (1CD) RE-RELEASED MAY 2010

www.opera-rara.com

Recommended by The PenguinGuide to Compact Discs and DVDsas an outstanding performanceand recording in every way

Worldpremiererecording

This SACD iscompatible withall CD players

The Penguin Guide toCompact Discs and DVDsKey Recording used as the basis of a personalcollection

❂★★★ Live concertrecording

4 INTRODUCTION – 6 INTRODUCTION – 8 EINLEITUNG – 10 INTRODUZIONE 12 OPERA INDEX49 VERDI ORIGINALS52 ESSENTIAL OPERA RARA SERIES56 ARTIST COLLECTIONS59 IL SALOTTO SERIES65 ANTHOLOGIES67 COMPILATIONS74 ARTIST/COMPOSER INDEX78 DISTRIBUTORS

Cover: The Woman with the Pearlby Jean Baptiste Camille Corot The Bridgeman Art Library

Recording the world’s rarest operas

3

Founded: 1970 by Patric Schmid and Don WhitePatrons: Dame Joan Sutherland OM, AC, DBE, Sir Mark Elder CBE Renée Fleming, Juan Diego Flórez, Simon Keenlyside

c o n t e n t s

Opera Rara is a registered charityCharity no. 261403

June 2010 is a red-letter day for OperaRara. It marks the 40th anniversary of ourongoing mission, launched by bel canto

enthusiasts Patric Schmid and Don White, to bringwonderful, yet neglected 19th century operasdown from dusty library shelves to be bothperformed and recorded. Four decades on, wecontinue to build on the foundations they laiddown with such imagination and devotion, relying,as they did, on the Peter Moores Foundation andon our many loyal supporters, including membersof the Opera Rara Association. This support isespecially valued in these difficult economic times.

Our current projects include ambitiousrecordings of major works by some of the greatestopera composers which have yet to receive theattention they deserve. Rossini’s Aureliano inPalmira was one of his early successes but untilrecently its vocal writing was considered toodemanding for modern singers; with artists such as Annick Massis, Silvia Tro Santafé and KennethTarver we hope to demonstrate its exceptionalqualities. Ermione was a disastrous failure in thecomposer’s lifetime and has only recently beenrecognised as one of his most adventurousmasterpieces. Our studio recording, led by the

exceptional young singers Carmen Giannattasioand Colin Lee, together with Patricia Bardon andPaul Nilon, all under David Parry’s direction, shouldhelp secure Ermione’s reputation with modernlisteners.

One of Bellini’s lesser-known operas, Il pirata,ignited international enthusiasm in its day and webelieve will do so again when David Parry conductsbel canto specialists Carmen Giannattasio, JoséBros and Ludovic Tézier in this fiery version of theeternal operatic triangle.

Many of the finest works of Donizetti’s maturityare still rarely performed, Linda di Chamounix andMaria di Rohan among them, but we agree withDonizetti experts that they are operas of greatquality and we are anxious to help restore them tofavour. In addition, as part of our Essential OperaRara series, we present highlights from I Normannia Parigi, one of the strongest works of the ‘lostmaster’, Mercadante.

Over the last 40 years we have recorded someoutstanding operas and this is acknowledged inour new compilation CD Celebrating 40 Years. We hope you enjoy them all and continue to helpus dive deep into the operatic depths to discovermore treasures for you to enjoy.

www.opera-rara.com4

Intr

oduc

tion

19

5

OFFENBACH

VERT-VERTBELLINI

IL PIRATA

THANKS TO OPERA RARA,THIS WITTY, SOPHISTICATED

AND SUBTLE OPERA-COMIQUE FLIES AGAIN!

IT IS SURE TO ENCHANT ALLOFFENBACH FANS

ORC41 (2CD) AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 2010

ONE OF BELLINI’S LESSER-KNOWN OPERASIGNITED INTERNATIONALENTHUSIASM IN ITS DAY,

AND WE BELIEVE IT WILL DOSO AGAIN WITH THIS ALL-STAR STUDIO RECORDING

ORC45 (2CD) AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 2011

WORLD

PREMIERE

RECORDING

,

www.opera-rara.com6

19 juin 2010 est une date marquéed’une pierre blanche pour Opera Rara.C’est en effet, le 40e anniversaire dulancement du projet de deux

passionnés du bel canto, Patric Schmid et DonWhite, qui voulaient redonner vie, en les faisant joueret graver, à de merveilleux opéras du XIXe sièclepourtant tombés dans l’oubli. Quarante ans plus tard,nous nous efforçons toujours de poursuivre l’œuvreque Patric et Don entreprirent avec tantd’imagination et de dévouement. Comme eux, nousbénéficions du soutien de la Fondation Peter Mooreset de fidèles auditeurs, dont les membres del’Association Opera Rara – soutien particulièrementprécieux en ces temps de crise économique.

Nous comptons, parmi nos projets actuels, desenregistrements ambitieux d’œuvres majeuressignées de très grands noms de l’opéra, qui n’ont pasencore pu être appréciées à leur juste valeur. AinsiAureliano in Palmira, œuvre de jeunesse de Rossini, a dû attendre jusqu’à récemment l’arrivée dechanteurs modernes capables de satisfairepleinement aux exigences de son écriture vocalecomme Annick Massis, Silvia Tro Santafé et KennethTarver. Véritable désastre du vivant de Rossini,Ermione – présenté en concert au Royal Festival Hallde Londres en mars dernier devant une critique et unpublic enthousiastes – est, depuis peu, reconnucomme l’un des chefs-d’œuvre les plus novateurs ducompositeur. Notre enregistrement en studio réaliséavec la même distribution remarquable qu’en concert– dont Carmen Giannattasio et Colin Lee, deux jeunes

talents d’exception accompagnés de Patricia Bardonet Paul Nilon, sous la direction de David Parry –devrait assurer la réputation d’Ermione auprès desauditeurs d’aujourd’hui.

Il pirata, opéra de Bellini peu connu aujourd’hui, a pourtant fait fureur sur la scène musicaleinternationale de l’époque. Il devrait soulever ànouveau l’enthousiasme sous la baguette de DavidParry dans cette fougueuse version de l’éterneltriangle amoureux interprétée par des spécialistes du bel canto, Carmen Giannattasio, José Bros etLudovic Tézier.

Parmi les plus belles pages de la maturité deDonizetti, nombreuses sont celles encore raremententendues, dont Linda di Chamounix et Maria diRohan. En accord avec les spécialistes donizettiens,nous les considérons comme des œuvres de grandequalité et sommes impatients de rétablir leurpopularité. Nous présentons, en outre, dans le cadrede la collection « Essential Opera Rara », des extraitsde I Normanni a Parigi, une des œuvres les pluspercutantes de Mercadante, « maître disparu », dontla connaissance nous paraît, en effet, essentielle.Nous sommes persuadés que nos auditeurspartageront ce sentiment.

Vous pourrez savourer les fleurons de l’opéra quenous avons gravés au cours de ces quarante dernièresannées grâce à la parution d’une compilationintitulée Celebrating 40 Years. Nous espérons qu’ilscombleront vos attentes et que vous continuerez ànous accompagner dans notre exploration dupatrimoine opératique.In

trod

uction

Le

7ORC42 (2CD) AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 2010 ORC46 (2CD) AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 2011

ROSSINI

ERMIONEROSSINI

AURELIANOIN PALMIRA

SET IN THE AFTERMATH OFTHE TROJAN WAR, THIS

OPERA IS RECOGNISED AS ALOST MASTERPIECE, WITHTENSION AND STAGGERINGORIGINALITY MAINTAINED

RIGHT TO THE VERY END

A SUCCESS IN ITS DAY, THISOPERA PROMISES TO THRILL

ANOTHER GENERATION OFLISTENERS IN THIS NEW

STUDIO RECORDING UNDERMAURIZIO BENINI

www.opera-rara.com8

19. Juni 2010 ist ein Tag, der imKalender von Opera Rara dickangestrichen ist, denn an dem Tag

vor vierzig Jahren nahm unsere Mission ihren Anfang. InsLeben gerufen wurde sie von den Belcanto-LiebhabernPatric Schmid und Don White mit dem Ziel, großartige,aber vielfach in Vergessenheit geratene Opern des 19.Jahrhunderts aus der Schublade zu holen, sie aufzuführenund einzuspielen. Vier Jahrzehnte später bauen wirweiterhin auf den von Patric und Don geschaffenenGrundlagen auf, die sie mit so großer Phantasie undHingabe gelegt haben. Wie sie sind wir auf dieUnterstützung der Peter Moores Foundation angewiesensowie auf unsere zahlreichen treuen Begleiter, zu denenauch die Mitglieder der Opera Rara Association gehören –eine Unterstützung, die wir in diesen ökonomischschweren Zeiten ganz besonders zu würdigen wissen.

Zu unseren neuen Projekten zählen anspruchsvolleAufnahmen bedeutender Werke von einigen der größtenOpernkomponisten – Werke, die aus dem einen oderanderen Grund noch nicht die ihnen gebührendeAufmerksamkeit bekommen. Aureliano in Palmira wareine der frühen Erfolge Rossinis, doch aufgrund deranspruchsvollen Gesangspartien gilt die Oper erst seiteiniger Zeit auch für heutige Sänger als singbar. Wirhoffen, wir können die Qualität dieses Werks mitKünstlern wie Annick Massis, Silvia Tro Santafé undKenneth Tarver überzeugend unter Beweis stellen.Ermione war zu Lebzeiten des Komponisten eingrandioses Fiasko und wurde erst vor kurzem als eines derabenteuerlichsten Meisterwerke dieses Komponisten

wiederentdeckt. Unsere Studioaufnahme mit derselbenStarbesetzung wie bei der Produktion – angeführt vonden herausragenden jungen Sängern CarmenGiannattasio und Colin Lee, dazu Patricia Bardon undPaul Nilon, alle unter der Leitung von David Parry – sollteErmione einen Erfolg beim heutigen Publikumgarantieren.

Eine von Bellinis weniger bekannten Opern, Il pirata,fand bei ihrer Premiere international immensen Anklang,und wir sind überzeugt, dass sie das auch heute wiedertun wird, wenn David Parry die Belcanto-SpezialistenCarmen Giannattasio, José Bros und Ludovic Tézier indieser feurigen Version des ewigen Dreiecks leitet.

Viele der schönsten Werke aus Donizettis Reifezeitsind noch immer selten auf der Bühne zu hören, darunteretwa Linda di Chamounix und Maria di Rohan, doch wirstimmen den Donizetti-Fachleuten zu, dass es sich beidiesen Opern um herausragende Werke handelt, für derenBeliebtheit wir uns mit Freuden engagieren. Im Rahmenunserer Reihe „Essential Opera Rara“ stellen wirHighlights aus I Normanni a Parigi vor, eines derüberzeugendsten Werke des „verlorenen Meisters“Mercadante.

Im Verlauf der vergangenen vierzig Jahre haben wireinige herausragende Opern eingespielt, die jetzt auchauf unserer neuen Kompilation Celebrating 40 Yearsvertreten sind. Wir hoffen, dass Sie sich an diesenHighlights erfreuen und uns weiterhin unterstützen beiunserem Bestreben, tief in den Opernfundus zu tauchenund noch mehr Schätze zutage zu fördern, an denen Siesich in kommenden Jahren erfreuen. Ei

nleitu

ngDer

MERCADANTE

I NORMANNI A PARIGI

IN THIS POPULAR SERIES OF NEW, SPECIALLY RECORDED HIGHLIGHTS, OPERA RARA

SELECTS THE BEST MOMENTS FROM NEGLECTED 19TH-CENTURY OPERAS. EACH

SINGLE-DISC SET IS ACCOMPANIED BY A COMPLETE LIBRETTO, ALLOWING THE

LISTENER TO PLACE THE SELECTIONS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE WHOLE OPERA

A TRIUMPH AT ITSPREMIERE IN 1832, THISIS CONSIDERED TO BEONE OF THE STRONGEST

WORKS OF THE‘LOST MASTER’

MERCADANTE. SET IN PARISFOLLOWING THEDEATH OF THE

MIGHTY KINGCHARLEMAGNE, THE

OPERA IS SHOT THROUGHWITH PERSONAL ANDPOLITICAL DRAMA

ORR249 (1CD)AVAILABLENOVEMBER 2010

WORLD

PREMIERE

RECORDING

ORR241 ORR224 ORR234 ORR237 ORR246 ORR228

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www.opera-rara.com10

19 giugno 2010 rappresenta una tappaimportante per Opera Rara. Ricorre il 40o

anniversario della sua missione, formulatanel lontano 1970 da due appassionati di belcanto,Patric Schmid e Don White, che si proposero dirispolverare i meravigliosi melodrammi dimenticatidel XIX secolo dagli scaffali delle biblioteche perrappresentarli nuovamente e registrarli. Oggi, adistanza di quattro decenni, noi continuiamo aportare avanti il lavoro iniziato da Patric e Don,edificando sulle basi stabilite dalla loro grandeimmaginazione e dedizione. Come loro, ciaffidiamo alla Fondazione Peter Moores e ai tantifedeli sostenitori, che comprendono i membridell’Associazione Opera Rara. Il loro sostegno ènotevolmente apprezzato, soprattutto alla lucedella presente congiuntura economica.

I nostri progetti correnti comprendonoambiziose registrazioni di alcune opere importati,create dal genio di grandissimi compositori, mache, per un motivo o per un altro, non hanno ancoraconquistato l’attenzione che meritano. Aureliano inPalmira fu uno dei primi successi di Rossini, ma solodi recente è stato ritenuto possibile superare ledifficoltà della sua partitura vocale; ci auguriamoche le sue qualità saranno dimostrate da artisticome Annick Massis, Silvia Tro Santafé e KennethTarver. Ermione di Rossini fu un disastrosofallimento durante la vita del compositore, e solo direcente è stata inclusa nel numero dei suoi

capolavori più avventurosi. La nostra registrazione,interpretata da due eccezionali giovani cantanti,Carmen Giannattasio e Colin Lee, insieme conPatricia Bardon e Paul Nilon, per la direzione diDavid Parry, punta a consolidare la reputazione diErmione presso gli ascoltatori moderni.

Ai suoi tempo Il pirata, una delle opere menonote di Bellini, suscitò entusiasmo a livellointernazionale. Noi siamo certi chel’interpretazione di David Parry e degli specialisti dibelcanto Carmen Giannattasio, José Bros e LudovicTézier otterrà lo stesso risultato riproponendoquesta versione operistica dell’eterno triangolo.

Molti tra i migliori melodrammi della maturità diDonizetti vengono ancora raramente rappresentati,per esempio Linda di Chamounix e Maria di Rohan,ma siamo d’accordo con gli esperti di Donizetti: sitratta di opere di grande qualità e noi desideriamosoprattutto restituirle al pubblico. Inoltre,nell’ambito della nostra serie Essential Opera Rara,presentiamo i momenti salienti de I Normanni aParigi, una grande opera del “perduto maestro”Mercadante.

Negli ultimi 40 anni abbiamo registrato operestraordinarie, come testimonia il nostro nuovo CD compilation dal titolo Celebrating 40 Years. Ci auguriamo che siano di vostro gradimento e checontinuerete la vostra approfondita esplorazionedel melodramma, alla ricerca di altri tesori daassaporare. In

trod

uzio

neIl

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DONIZETTI

Linda di ChamounixAND

Maria di Rohan

THIS SEMISERIA OPERA WAS ONE OF THE BIGGEST SUCCESSES OF

DONIZETTI’S CAREER

LIVE RECORDING FROM THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE,

COVENT GARDENRECORDING MADE POSSIBLE WITH THE

GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM THE PETER MOORESFOUNDATION AND PHILANTHROPISTS

TRIFON AND THESPINA NATSIS

ORC43 (3CD) AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 2011

DONIZETTI CLAIMS HIS POSITION AS ONE OF THE 19TH CENTURY’S

GREATEST MUSICAL DRAMATISTSWITH THIS OPERA SET IN THE TIME

OF CARDINAL RICHELIEU

STUDIO RECORDING FROM THE NEW CRITICAL EDITION

OF THE SCORE

ORC44 (2CD) AVAILABLE MAY 2011

12

Visit the Opera Rara website

to purchase any Opera Rara and Opera Rara Direct recordings

S E C U R E O N L I N E O R D E R I N G

www.opera-rara.com

SPECIAL OFFER!First-time online purchasersreceive a free CD:Cross & Crescent

Learn more about Opera Rara, its artists,composers, events and how to support us. Listen to sound clips before purchasing

B E L L I N I 1 8 0 1 - 1 8 3 5

José

Bro

s, Gu

altie

ro in

Bel

lini's

Il p

irata

The third opera by the 27-year-old Sicilian Vincenzo Bellini, Il pirata marked an importantstep forward in his career. His first score written for thebrand leader of Italian operahouses, La Scala, Milan, it also

represented his first collaboration with FeliceRomani, the leading librettist of the day – whowould become his regular artistic partner. It wasalso the first of Bellini’s works to reach aninternational audience. After its premiere in 1827,it soon went on to win acclaim in Vienna, Dresden,Paris, London and New York. Its comparativeneglect in our day is inexplicable, but Opera Rarahopes to rectify the situation with this all-starstudio recording. Based (via a French translation)on an English play by the Anglo-Irish Gothic writerCharles Maturin, Il pirata describes how Gualtiero(José Bros) is shipwrecked during a storm on theSicilian coast, where his former love Imogene(Carmen Giannattasio) has been forced into an

Piracy on the high Cs

LA STRANIERAPatrizia Ciofi, Mark Stone, Darío Schmunck, Enkelejda Shkosa, Graeme Broadbent, Roland Wood,Aled Hall, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, London PhilharmonicOrchestra, David Parry – conductorFirst staged at La Scala in1829, this neglectedmasterpiece is now available in Opera Rara’s studio recording.

‘Musically rich and dramatically imposing’ – Dominic McHugh, MusicalCriticism.com

B E L L I N I

7 92938 00382 5ORC38 (2 disc set)

The Gramophone Aw

ards Short List 2009

Best of the Year – Opera News

/Disc of the M

onth – Opera

www.opera-rara.com 13

ORC45 (2 disc set)AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 2011

IL PIRATACarmen Giannattasio, José Bros, Ludovic Tézier, Victoria Simmonds, Mark Le Brocq, Brindley Sherratt,Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, London Philharmonic Orchestra,David Parry – conductor

unwilling marriage by Ernesto, the local duke(Ludovic Tézier). Tensions build between the threeuntil Gualtiero kills Ernesto in a duel, causingImogene to go mad with guilt. David Parryconducts this exceptional example of earlyRomantic opera at its most dramatically potent.

★★★


ORC43 (3 disc set)AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 2011

D O N I Z E T T I 1 7 9 7 – 1 8 4 8

LINDA DI CHAMOUNIXEglise Gutiérrez, Ludovic Tézier, Stephen Costello,Alessandro Corbelli, Mariana Pizzolato, Bálint Szabó,Elizabeth Sikora, Luciano Botelho, Orchestra and Chorusof the Royal Opera House, Sir Mark Elder – conductor

Eglis

e Gu

tiérr

ez re

hear

sing

at t

he R

oyal

Ope

ra H

ouse

for D

oniz

etti’

s Lin

da d

i Cha

mou

nix One of the biggest successes of

Donizetti’s career, Linda diChamounix was performed allover the operatic world in thedecades following its 1842premiere in Vienna, but then fellinto neglect; the live concert

performances recorded by Opera Rara at CoventGarden in 2009 were its first there since 1887. Thisopera is one of Donizetti’s finest achievements,featuring some of his best arias, ensembles andchoruses – including the brilliant sopranoshowpiece ‘O luce di quest’anima’; in this semiseriaopera this much-admired aria is sung by Linda(Eglise Gutiérrez), who has fallen in love with Carlo(Stephen Costello) believing him to be a painter,though he is in reality a nobleman. Packed off toParis to stop her falling into the clutches of Carlo’suncle, the dubious Marchese de Boisfleury(Alessandro Corbelli), Linda is discovered incompromising circumstances by her father Antonio(Ludovic Tézier), who curses her, causing her to loseher reason. Supported by the loyal Pierotto

AVictorianheroine rescuedat last

(Marianna Pizzolato), Linda returns to Chamounixand sanity – and, eventually, to the arms of theman she loves: the very model of a Victorianheroine rescued at last. Sir Mark Elder conductsthe recent critical edition of the score.

‘The cast were flawless’ – Neil Fisher, The Times,(reviewing the concert performance)


D O N I Z E T T ID O N I Z E T T I

DOM SÉBASTIEN, ROI DE PORTUGALVesselina Kasarova, Giuseppe Filianoti, Alastair Miles,Simon Keenlyside, Carmelo Corrado Caruso, Orchestra and Chorus of the Royal Opera House, Sir Mark Elder – conductorDonizetti’s final opera, a dark five-actmasterpiece, is brought brilliantly to life in thislive recording from the Royal Opera House – with the complete ballet music.

‘One of the most important Donizetti releases of recent years’ – George Hall, Opera Now

7 92938 00292 7ORC29 (1disc set)

ELVIDAAnnick Massis, Bruce Ford, Jennifer Larmore, PietroSpagnoli, London Philharmonic Orchestra, GeoffreyMitchell Choir, Antonello Allemandi – conductorThis one-act melodrama, which Donizettiprovided for the birthday of Maria Isabella ofSpain, wife of Francesco I of Naples, would makea delightful present for anyone. The quartet 'Deh ti placa, Amur' is one of Donizetti's mostravishing ensembles.

‘One of the best casts that could be assembledtoday’ – CultureKiosque.com

7 92938 00332 0ORC33 (3 disc set)

The Gramophone Aw

ards Finalist 2007

Disc of the Month – Opera

/ 50th Gramm

y Awards Nom

ination

★★★

The Best of the Year –Opera News

16

ORC44 (2 disc set)AVAILABLE MAY 2011

D O N I Z E T T I

MARIA DI ROHANKrassimira Stoyanova, José Bros, Christopher Purves, Loïc Félix, Enkelejda Shkosa, Brindley Sherratt, GraemeBroadbent, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Sir Mark Elder – conductor

Kras

sim

ira S

toya

nova

reco

rdin

g Do

nize

tti’s

Mar

ia d

i Roh

an According to the late Donizettiexpert William Ashbrook, Maria di Rohan (1843) is thecomposer‘s ‘tautest, mostmelodramatic opera’ andshows him ‘in complete controlof his musico-dramatic goals’.

The work was first performed in Vienna, butDonizetti revised it for its Paris premiere,changing the tenor role of Armando di Gondì tomezzo-soprano. Working from the new criticaledition of the score, with the period-instrumentOrchestra of the Age of Enlightenment under SirMark Elder, Opera Rara has recorded the originalVienna (June 1843) two tenor version as well assome of the appendices from the Paris (November1843) revision, including those written for themezzo-soprano, sung here by Enkelejda Shkosa.Set during the time of Cardinal Richelieu, theopera focuses on Maria (Krassimira Stoyanova),secretly married to Ricardo, Duke of Chevreuse(José Bros), who has wounded the Cardinal’snephew in a duel. In seeking assistance for herhusband’s plight from Enrico, Count of Chalais

A duel inthe time ofRichelieu

(Christopher Purves), Maria finds her former lovefor the latter revived. The rest of the opera centreson how this intricate and explosive triangle ofrelationships plays out. As a handful of recentproductions have demonstrated, the work showsDonizetti rightly claiming his position as one ofthe 19th century’s greatest musical dramatists.

www.opera-rara.com



EMILIA DI LIVERPOOLYvonne Kenny, Sesto Bruscantini, Chris Merritt, Geoffrey Dolton, Philharmonia Orchestra, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, David Parry – conductorDonizetti actually wrote two versions of thisdelightful opera for Naples. The original wasgiven in 1824 and a completely reworkedrevision was presented in 1828. Opera Rara offers both operas in one boxed set.

‘The work has charm and wild improbability in equal proportion’– John Higgins, The Times

7 92938 00282 8ORC28 (1disc set)

FRANCESCA DI FOIXAnnick Massis, Jennifer Larmore, Bruce Ford, AlfonsoAntoniozzi, London Philharmonic Orchestra, GeoffreyMitchell Choir, Antonello Allemandi – conductorIn1831 a one-act opera had little chance ofsurvival after the first performances, and thisopera was destined to remain on the shelf – thatis, until Opera Rara came to her rescue. Now thebeauties of this charming score can once againbe enjoyed by one and all.One of the Hundred Outstanding Recordings inthe Penguin Guide to Compact Discs and DVDs

7 92938 00082 4ORC8 (3 disc set)

Music Retailers Association Aw

ard of Excellence

❂

❂★★★

www.opera-rara.com


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GABRIELLA DI VERGYLudmilla Andrew, Maurice Arthur, John Tomlinson,Christian du Plessis, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra,Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Alun Francis – conductorThe world premiere of a Donizetti opera! The manuscript for this hitherto unknown work was discovered in a London library. The recording also offers three pieces from Donizetti’s earlier version of1826.

‘It makes one wonder how this inventive scorecould have been neglected for so long’ – Penguin Guide to Compact Discs and DVDs

7 92938 00312 2ORC31 (2 disc set)

IL DILUVIO UNIVERSALEMirco Palazzi, Majella Cullagh, Manuela Custer, SimonBailey, Colin Lee, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, LondonPhilharmonic Orchestra, Giuliano Carella – conductor This landmark recording, of the first ofDonizetti’s great ensemble operas, tells thebiblical story of Noah, ending spectacularly asthe world is submerged and only the Ark is leftriding out the waves.

‘No Donizettian will want to miss this’ – Hugh Canning, Sunday Times

7 92938 00032 9

Opera Choice – BBC Music M

agazine

★★★ ❂

ORC3 (2 disc set)

www.opera-rara.com


ORC36 (2 disc set)

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IMELDA DE’ LAMBERTAZZINicole Cabell, James Westman, Massimo Giordano, Frank Lopardo, Brindley Sherratt, Geoffrey MitchellChoir, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Sir Mark Elder – conductorComposed in 1830 for the Teatro San Carlo inNaples, this proves to be one of Donizetti’s most brilliant, thrilling, revolutionary anddynamic scores.

‘Triumph of bel canto’– Warren Keith Wright, Opera

7 92938 00192 0

LA ROMANZESCA E L’UOMO NEROElisabetta Scano, Bruno Praticò, Alfonso Antoniozzi,Pietro Spagnoli, Bruce Ford, Paul Austin Kelly, Academyof St Martin in the Fields, David Parry – conductor Donizetti’s rarest one-act farce, written forNaples, concerns the antics of Antonia. To theexasperation of her father and various suitors,she spurns marriage in favour of her obsessionwith the new fad for ’romanticism.‘

‘A real discovery and a wholly enjoyable disc’– Richard Law, Opera

7 92938 00362 7

Critics’ Choice –American Record Guide

BBC Music M

agazineAw

ard Nomination

❂

ORC19 (1 disc set)

L’ASSEDIO DI CALAISNuccia Focile, Della Jones, Christian du Plessis, Rico Serbo, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, PhilharmoniaOrchestra, David Parry – conductorThe first performance in150 years of an operaconsidered to be Donizetti’s most interesting and forward-looking work. As a result of thisrecording, staged revivals have been given inItaly, England and Ireland.

‘One of the most invigorating of all the completeopera recordings made over the years by thisenterprising organisation’– Penguin CD & DVD Guide

7 92938 00162 3ORC16 (2 disc set)

MARIA DE RUDENZNelly Miricioiu, Bruce Ford, Robert McFarland,Regina Nathan, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductorAn opera in which the soprano dies twice! Yet Cammarano’s grisly libretto is given some of Donizetti’s most beautiful music. The role of Maria is a gift for a soprano, particularly the gripping final scene.

‘The blood and thunder ensembles and duetscreate a rip-roaring bel canto feast’ – The San Francisco Tribune

7 92938 00092 3ORC9 (2 disc set)

★★★ ❂





MARIA PADILLALois McDonall, Christian du Plessis, Graham Clark, Della Jones, London Symphony Orchestra, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Alun Francis – conductorA fascinating work, telling the story of MariaPadilla, mistress of Pedro the Cruel of Castile.Maria's duet with her sister became a famousconcert piece, but perhaps the most unusualfeature is the mad scene for Maria's father – a tenor!

‘A fascinating and valuable recording’ – The New York Times

7 92938 00042 8ORC4 (1disc set)

NE M’OUBLIEZ PASMargreta Elkins, Alexander Oliver, Christian du Plessis,Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, James Judd – conductorThis opéra-comique is unfinished – only fivepieces exist. Opera Rara has recorded all of them– plus arias from Gianni di Parigi, Il diluviouniversale, Dom Sébastien and Imelda de’Lambertazzi.

‘Elkins is in superb form, superbly recorded’ – David Gyger, Opera Australasia

7 92938 00062 6ORC6 (3 disc set)

❂

★★★ ❂

www.opera-rara.com


22

PARISINACarmen Giannattasio, José Bros, Dario Solari, NicolaUlivieri, Ann Taylor, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, LondonPhilharmonic Orchestra, David Parry – conductorThis major new studio recording of Donizetti’sneglected opera revives one of his darkesttragedies.

‘A superior Parisina performance makes this recording the new front-runner’ – Mike Ashman, Gramophone

7 92938 00302 3ORC30 (3 disc set)

PIA DE’ TOLOMEIMajella Cullagh, Bruce Ford, Roberto Servile, ManuelaCuster, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, London PhilharmonicOrchestra, David Parry – conductorPia de’ Tolomei appears for the first time oncompact disc in a new critical edition thatincludes all of Donizetti’s extensive revisions for later perform ances, including both tragic and happy endings.

‘Bravo to Opera Rara’ – Christopher Cook, BBC Music Magazine

ORC40 (3 disc set)

Editor’s Choice – Gramophone

www.opera-rara.com


23

ROBERTO DEVEREUXNelly Miricioiu, José Bros, Sonia Ganassi, Roberto Frontali, Orchestra and Chorus of the RoyalOpera House, Maurizio Benini – conductorThis is Donizetti’s third – and strongest – portraitof Elizabeth I, and Nelly Miricioiu seizes the rolewith magisterial ferocity, supported by anexcellent cast. Recorded live at the Royal OperaHouse, Covent Garden.

‘The ever-enterprising Opera Rara sweeps theboard with this new recording’– Penguin CD and DVD Guide

7 92938 00132 6ORC13 (2 disc set)

ROSMONDA D’INGHILTERRA Renée Fleming, Nelly Miricioiu, Bruce Ford, Alastair Miles, Diana Montague, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductorSoprano rivals battle for the love of Henry II of England in this setting of the Legend of FairRosamund. In a blazing final duet, the jealousQueen Eleanor kills Rosmonda.

‘The performance could hardly be improved’ – John Steane, Gramophone

7 92938 00242 2ORC24 (2 disc set)

Prix Caecelia

Recomm

ended – The Gramophone Classical Good CD Guide

★★★

UGO CONTE DI PARIGIJanet Price, Yvonne Kenny, Della Jones, Maurice Arthur,Eiddwen Harrhy, Christian du Plessis, Geoffrey MitchellChoir, Philharmonia Orchestra, Alun Francis – conductor

An opera with three sopranos! Some of Donizetti’s most energetic and inspired vocalwriting is on show, particularly in the manybeautiful and intricate ensembles.

‘An irresistible addition to Opera Rara’scollection’ – Frank Granville-Barker, Records and Recordings

ORC17 (4 disc set)

ZORAIDA DI GRANATA Bruce Ford, Majella Cullagh, Diana Montague, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Academy of St Martin in theFields, David Parry – conductor Although it was Donizetti’s first theatricalsuccess, the original version of this 1822 operawas never given a complete performance. Here isthe entire opera for the first time – together withselections from the 1824 version.

‘A major discovery’– Michael Oliver, Classic FM Magazine

ORC1 (3 disc set)

Recomm

ended by Classica

★★★ ❂

www.opera-rara.com

★★★ ❂

24

7 92938 00012 1 7 92938 00172 2




DELLA JONES SINGS DONIZETTIWith Eiddwen Harrhy, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, PhilharmoniaOrchestra, London Symphony Orchestra, David Parry and Alun Francis – conductorsA bel canto treat, including pieces from MariaPadilla, Alfredo il Grande, Francesca di Foix, Ugoconte di Parigi, Enrico di Borgogna, Gabriella diVergy and L’assedio di Calais.

‘Della Jones brings an attractively warm vocaltimbre and a superb coloratura technique toevery piece’ – Charles Osborne, BBC Music Magazine

7 92938 02072 3ORR207 (1disc set)

DONIZETTISCENES & OVERTURESNelly Miricioiu, Rockwell Blake, Garry Magee, Majella Cullagh, Sara Fulgoni, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir,Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductorIncludes previously unknown material fromAnna Bolena and Caterina Cornaro as well asselections from Marino Faliero, Maria di Rohan,Gianni da Calais, Maria Stuarda, Parisina, Ugoconte di Parigi and L’ajo nell’ imbarazzo.

‘Captivating from the first to last moments’ – Michel Parouty, Diapason

7 92938 02032 7ORR203 (1disc set)

Recomm

ended by Classica

Diapason d’Or / Opera Pick of the Month – BBC M

usic Magazine

www.opera-rara.com


26

DONIZETTI DIVASWith Nelly Miricioiu, Renée Fleming, Yvonne Kenny, Ludmilla Andrew, Eiddwen Harrhy, Majella Cullagh, Diana Montague, Della Jones, Nuccia FocileOpera Rara celebrates the work of somewonderful ladies in its unusual Donizetti revivals.Selections from Maria de Rudenz, Gabriella diVergy, Ugo conte di Parigi, Emilia di Liverpool,Alfredo il Grande, Rosmonda d’Inghilterra andMaria Padilla.

‘An outstanding disc of Donizetti rarities’– John Steane, Gramophone

7 92938 02142 3

ORR214 (1disc set)RE-RELEASED MAY 2010

RENÉE FLEMING: DONIZETTIROSMONDA D’INGHILTERRAWith Bruce Ford, Nelly Miricioiu, Alastair Miles, Diana Montague, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir,Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductorThe sensational world-class American sopranodemonstrates her acclaimed skills as a superbDonizettian. One of the best of the composer’sneglected operas.

’One of the most lovely voices to be heard in our time’– John Steane (reviewing this recording), Gramophone

7 92938 02132 4ORR213 (1disc set)

★★★

www.opera-rara.com

M A Y R 1 7 6 3 - 1 8 4 5D O N I Z E T T I

27

THE YOUNG DONIZETTIBruce Ford, Majella Cullagh, Diana Montague, Jennifer Larmore, Annick Massis, Yvonne Kenny, Della Jones, Paul Austin Kelly, David Parry – conductorThis selection of music taken from Donizetti'searlier works – up to Anna Bolena (1830), whichmarked the beginning of his international career– gives the listener a surprising new view of theyoung composer perfecting his craft.

‘With such outstanding bel canto artists, one could hardly go wrong’ – American Record Guide

7 92938 00232 3ORC23 (3 disc set)

GINEVRA DI SCOZIAElizabeth Vidal, Daniela Barcellona, Antonino Siragusa,Orchestra and Chorus of the Teatro Lirico ‘Giuseppe Verdi’ Trieste, Tiziano Severini – conductorGinevra di Scozia opened the opera house inTrieste in 1801. Two hundred years later a revivalwas staged to commemorate the opening andOpera Rara was there to capture it on disc.Astonishing vocalism serves Mayr’s opera well.

‘Elizabeth Vidal is spectacular, DanielaBarcellona’s tone gloriously rich and firm’– Penguin CD and DVD Guide

7 92938 02292 5ORR229 (1disc set)

Classical CD of the Week – The Guardian

❂

MEDEA IN CORINTOJane Eaglen, Bruce Ford, Yvonne Kenny, Raúl Giménez,Alastair Miles, Paul Nilon, Anne Mason, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductorThe masterpiece of Donizetti’s illustrious teacher,Mayr. The title role is one of the most dramaticvehicles to be written for Isabella Colbran,Rossini’s wife and the first Semiramide.

‘Jane Eaglen meets the florid demands of thistitle role head on’– George Hall, Opera Now

7 92938 02152 2ORR215 (1disc set)

JANE EAGLEN SINGS MEDEA IN CORINTOWith Bruce Ford, Yvonne Kenny, Alastair Miles, Raúl Giménez, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductorThe British soprano Jane Eaglen has been hailedin Europe and America as a great Wagnerianspecialist. Here she does a complete stylisticturnaround, displaying the full force of herimpressive bel canto skills.

‘Jane Eaglen’s voice is revealed here at itsfreshest and firmest’ – Penguin CD and DVD Guide

7 92938 00112 8ORC11 (3 disc set)

Music Retailers Association Aw

ard for Excellence

Diapason d’Or / Record of the Month – Opera Now


M A Y RM A Y R


M E R C A D A N T E 1 7 9 5 – 1 8 7 0M A Y R

MAYR REDISCOVEREDDaniela Barcellona, Bruce Ford, Eiddwen Harrhy, Della Jones, Yvonne Kenny, Diana Montague, Antonino Siragusa, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir,Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductor Mayr composed over 60 operas between1794and1824. His works explore characters'psychology with deeply satisfyingthoughtfulness, as this absorbing selection ofexcerpts demonstrates.

‘Another encyclopaedia entry springs into life at Opera Rara’s loving touch’– Warren Keith Wright, Opera

7 92938 00262 0ORC26 (3 disc set)

EMMA D’ANTIOCHIANelly Miricioiu, Bruce Ford, Roberto Servile, Maria Costanza Nocentini, Colin Lee,Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, London PhilharmonicOrchestra, David Parry – conductorThe story of a passionate love affair that disrupts the lives of four people inspired one of Mercadante’s most beautiful scores. Vocal and orchestral effects abound as the plot works its way to the heroine’s suicide.

‘Thrilling’ – Classic FM Magazine

7 92938 02442 4ORR244 (1disc set)

❂

www.opera-rara.com

M E R C A D A N T EM E R C A D A N T E

30

ORAZI E CURIAZINelly Miricioiu, Marcus Jerome, Anthony Michaels-Moore, Alastair Miles, Paul Nilon, Geoffrey MitchellChoir, Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry –conductorIn ancient Rome, a feud between two noblefamilies erupts in violence. Mercadante’scomplex and demanding vocal and orchestralwriting brings this classical tragedy vividly to life.

‘Impeccably performed, recorded and documented’ – David Gyger, Opera Australasia

ORC39 (2 disc set)

VIRGINIASusan Patterson, Paul Charles Clarke, CharlesCastronovo, Stefano Antonucci, Andrew Foster-Williams, Mark Le Brocq, Katherine Manley, GeoffreyMitchell Choir, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Maurizio Benini – conductorThis opera tells a grand tale of injustice, braveryand desperation in ancient Rome. Premiered atthe Teatro San Carlo in 1866.

‘The energy and passion are infectious’ – Fiona Maddocks, The Observer

7 92938 00122 7ORC12 (3 disc set)

4 Etoiles de Classica / Critic’s Choice – Opera News

CD of the Week – The Observer

❂

www.opera-rara.com

M E R C A D A N T EM E R C A D A N T E

31

MERCADANTE REDISCOVEREDNelly Miricioiu, Bruce Ford, Majella Cullagh, Alastair Miles, William Matteuzzi, Yvonne Kenny, David Harper – piano, David Parry – conductor With selections from Virginia, Orazi e Curiazi,Gabriella di Vergy, Zaira, Emma d’Antiochiaand Les Soirées Italiennes, this is the perfectintroduction to Mercadante’s music.

‘This CD is filled with wonderful singing ofmusic by a fascinating composer’ – Robert Levine, International Record Review

7 92938 02362 5ORR236 (1disc set)

PAVENTA INSANO – Pacini andMercadante, Arias and EnsemblesAnnick Massis, Bruce Ford, Majella Cullagh, Kenneth Tarver, Laura Polverelli, Alan Opie, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, London PhilharmonicOrchestra, David Parry – conductorA glimpse into the operatic worlds of Pacini andMercadante, featuring scenes from Virginia, Il corsaro, I Normanni a Parigi, Stella di Napoli, Il contestabile di Chester and Leonora.

'White-hot emotions leap from these generousfragments of operas’- Andrew Stewart, Classic FM

7 92938 02262 8ORR226 (1disc set)

DINORAHDeborah Cook, Christian du Plessis, Alexander Oliver, Della Jones, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, James Judd – conductorTransparent orchestral textures and dizzyingvocal gymnastics feature strongly in this delightful story of a lost treasure, a mad heroineand her goat! The opera was a favourite of thediva Adelina Patti.

‘A fascinating recording’ – Peter Davis, New York Times

7 92938 00102 9ORC10 (4 disc set)

IL CROCIATO IN EGITTODiana Montague, Bruce Ford, Yvonne Kenny, DellaJones, Ugo Benelli, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, RoyalPhilharmonic Orchestra, David Parry – conductorMeyerbeer’s elaborate use of vocal andorchestral forces is unique in the development of 19th-century opera. Opera Rara’s editionfeatures all the music written for productions the composer supervised.

‘The key to Meyerbeer’– Ronald Crichton, Opera

7 92938 00052 7ORC5 (3 disc set)

Recomm

ended – The Gramophone Classical Good CD Guide

❂


M E Y E R B E E RM E Y E R B E E R 1 7 9 1 – 1 8 6 4

★★★ ❂


M E Y E R B E E RM E Y E R B E E R

MARGHERITA D’ANJOUAnnick Massis, Bruce Ford, Daniela Barcellona, Alastair Miles, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, LondonPhilharmonic Orchestra, David Parry – conductorWas Meyerbeer really a Rossini imitator? Or did he take operatic conventions apart and rebuildthem his way? Here is where to find out. In this, the fourth of Meyerbeer’s Italian operas,astonishing vocalism dominates a score filled with brilliant orchestral effects.

‘Annick Massis has an almost superhumanability to sing coloratura’ – Robert Thicknesse, The Times

7 92938 02222 2ORR222 (1disc set)

MEYERBEER IN ITALYBruce Ford, Yvonne Kenny, Alastair Miles, DianaMontague, Della Jones, Philharmonia Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, David Parry – conductorMeyerbeer is remembered chiefly for his Frenchgrand operas, but it was his Italian operas that gothim to France in the first place. These are the ‘hits’ – the arias and ensembles from his sixItalian operas which charmed the public most.

‘A composer of real dramatic flair and musicalinventiveness’ – David Cairns (reviewing this recording), Sunday Times

7 92938 00252 1ORC25 (3 disc set)

CD of the Week – The Observer

The Gramophone Aw

ards Nomination 2004

❂


MOZARTTHE SUPREME DECORATORDiana Montague, Elizabeth Futral, Majella Cullagh, The Hanover Band, Sir Charles Mackerras – conductorThis recording shows how Mozart ornamentedhis own music to heighten the expressiveness orthe brilliance of an aria – and how he turned hisborrowings from JC Bach into some of his mostdivine inspirations.

‘Majella Cullagh and Elizabeth Futral brilliantlyconfront the challenges of the music’ – Raúl González Arévalo, Mundoclasico.com

7 92938 02322 9ORR232 (1disc set)

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Secure online ordering for allOpera Rara and

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Tel: +44 (0)20 7613 2858 or Fax: +44 (0)20 7613 2261Email: [email protected]

www.opera-rara.com

M O Z A R T 1 7 5 6 – 1 7 9 1


O F F E N B A C H 1 8 1 9 – 1 8 8 0

The word inexhaustible mighthave been coined to describe the prolific creativity of JacquesOffenbach, who effectivelycreated the new genre ofoperetta in Paris in the mid-19thcentury. Opera Rara’s association

with his music goes back a long way, to thecompany’s revival of his1867 opéra-comiqueRobinson Crusoe (ORC7), and the creation of anew piece, Christopher Columbus (ORC2), with a libretto by Don White, drawing on a host of the master’s scores. In 2007 we resumed ourexploration of the huge output of the ‘Mozart ofthe Champs-Élysées’ with Entre Nous (ORR243), a collection of excerpts from more than 20 of hislesser-known scores. Now our new releasepresents a complete recording of the delectableVert-Vert, the follow-up to Robinson Crusoe atthe Opéra Comique and one of no fewer than five stage works the composer produced in1869 alone! Toby Spence, who starred in ENO’sscintillating La Belle Hélène, takes the role of

Toby

Spe

nce

rehe

arsi

ng fo

r Off

enba

ch’s

Vert

-Ver

tthe charming young man who is nicknamed Vert-Vert after the deceased favourite parrot of the pupils at a girls’ boarding-school.Jennifer Larmore is the exotic singer La Corillain this witty, sophisticated and subtle piece. It is sure to enchant all Offenbach fans.

ORC41 (2 disc set)AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 2010

VERT-VERTThora Einarsdottir, Ann Taylor, Lucy Crowe, Toby Spence,Mark Le Brocq, Mark Stone, Anne-Marie Owens, FranckLeguérinel, Loïc Félix, Jennifer Larmore, Sébastien Droy,Franck Lopez, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, PhilharmoniaOrchestra, David Parry – conductor

The dead parrotflies again

❂


O F F E N B A C HO F F E N B A C H

CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUSMaurice Arthur, Anna Dawson, Marilyn Hill Smith, Alan Opie, Christian du Plessis, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir,London Mozart Players, Alun Francis – conductorA joyful and infectious pastiche that marries some of Offenbach’s best music with Opera Raraco-founder Don White’s witty and irreverentEnglish version of the discovery of America.

‘A complete delight’ – Peter Davis, New York Times

7 92938 00072 5ORC7 (3 disc set)

ROBINSON CRUSOEJohn Brecknock, Yvonne Kenny, Marilyn Hill Smith,Alexander Oliver, Sandra Browne, Geoffrey MitchellChoir, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Alun Francis – conductorRobinson Crusoe and friends have to face drunken pirates and waltzing cannibals as they try to get back home. Don White’s excellentEnglish version is superbly sung by a strong cast.

‘Yvonne Kenny and John Brecknock areoutstanding’– Penguin CD & DVD Guide

7 92938 00022 0ORC2 (2 disc set)

❂

❂★★★


P A C I N I 1 7 9 6 - 1 8 6 7O F F E N B A C H

ENTRE NOUS: CELEBRATING OFFENBACHLaura Claycomb, Elizabeth Vidal, Colin Lee, Yvonne Kenny, Jennifer Larmore, Alastair Miles,Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, London PhilharmonicOrchestra, David Parry – conductorA magnificent line-up of singers offers us atreasure-trove of enchanting rarities from lesser-known operas by the ‘Mozart of theChamps-Élysées’, Jacques Offenbach.

‘Outstanding’ – The Gramophone Classical Good CD Guide

7 92938 00352 8ORC35 (3 disc set)

ALESSANDRO NELL’INDIEBruce Ford, Jennifer Larmore, Laura Claycomb, DeanRobinson, Mark Wilde, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, LondonPhilharmonic Orchestra, David Parry – conductorPremiered in Naples in 1824, Pacini’s splendidAlessandro nell’Indie tells the story of Alexanderthe Great’s campaign in India, of his defeat of theIndian king Poro and of his infatuation with anIndian queen, Cleofide.

‘Bel canto fans wanting something new oughtto snap this one up immediately’– Stephen Francis Vasta, Opera News

7 92938 02432 5ORR243 (2 disc set)

Critic’s Choice – Opera News

Best of the Year – Opera News

Outstanding – BBC Music M

agazine

Critics’ Choice – Gramophone

❂★★★

❂

www.opera-rara.com

P A C I N IP A C I N I

38

CARLO DI BORGOGNABruce Ford, Jennifer Larmore, Elizabeth Futral, RobertoFrontali, Garry Magee, Academy of St Martin in theFields, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, David Parry – conductorA completely forgotten opera proves to be a gem,with a wonderful melodramatic plot and nearlythree hours of Pacini's most effective vocalwriting. The many arias, duets and trios provide ahighly entertaining vehicle for this splendid cast.

‘Any lover of Italian opera will find thisrecording an absolutely essential purchase’– American Record Guide

7 92938 00152 4ORC15 (3 disc set)

MARIA REGINA D’INGHILTERRANelly Miricioiu, Bruce Ford, Mary Plazas,José Fardilha, Alastair Miles, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir,Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductorThis fascinating opera dates from Pacini’s richest and most mature period. Victor Hugo’spassionate play about Mary Tudor providesample opportunity for music that is at oncedramatic yet compellingly lyrical.

‘Listeners are likely to find themselves playingstraight through from start to finish’ – John Steane, Gramophone

7 92938 00212 5ORC21 (3 disc set)

Discovery of the Month – Classic FM

Magazine

Recomm

ended by Classica

Recomm

ended –The Gramophone Classical Good CD Guide

Recomm

ended by Classica❂

★★★❂

www.opera-rara.com

P A C I N IP A C I N I

39

PACINI REDISCOVEREDAnnick Massis, Jennifer Larmore, Majella Cullagh,William Matteuzzi, Bruce Ford, Academy of St Martin in the Fields, Philharmonia Orchestra, David Parry – conductorMusic of magical enchantment and lyricalbeauty is revealed on this inspiring collection.

‘A hugely enjoyable disc’– John Allison, BBC Music Magazine

7 92938 02362 5ORR236 (1disc set)

PAVENTA INSANO – Pacini andMercadante, Arias and EnsemblesAnnick Massis, Bruce Ford, Majella Cullagh, Kenneth Tarver, Laura Polverelli, Alan Opie, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, London PhilharmonicOrchestra, David Parry – conductorA glimpse into the operatic worlds of Pacini andMercadante, featuring scenes from Virginia, Il corsaro, I Normanni a Parigi, Stella di Napoli, Il contestabile di Chester and Leonora.

'White-hot emotions leap from these generousfragments of operas’- Andrew Stewart, Classic FM

ORR238 (1disc set)

40

masterpiece. Set in the aftermath of the Trojan War, the opera’s novelties begin with an overture interrupted by a choral lament ofTrojan prisoners. Tension and staggeringoriginality are maintained right to the very end.‘Carmen Giannattasio’s performance was a triumph’ – Geoff Brown, The Times(reviewing the concert performance)

ORC42 (2 disc set)AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 2010

R O S S I N I 1 7 9 2 - 1 8 6 8

ERMIONECarmen Giannattasio, Colin Lee, Patricia Bardon, Paul Nilon,Loïc Félix, Bülent Bezdüz, Graeme Broadbent, RebeccaBottone, Victoria Simmonds, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir,London Philharmonic Orchestra, David Parry – conductor

Carm

en G

iann

atta

sio

rehe

arsi

ng R

ossi

ni’s

Erm

ione During the years from 1815 to

1822 when his career centredon Naples, Rossini composed a sequence of works for theTeatro San Carlo, which atthat time boasted anoutstanding orchestra and

a company of resident singers that was theleading ensemble available anywhere. A stringof masterpieces resulted, including such worksas Elisabetta, regina d’Inghilterra, Otello,Ricciardo e Zoraide and La donna del lago (allfeaturing in Opera Rara’s catalogue). One opera,however, failed spectacularly: Ermione wasreceived with incomprehension at its soleperformance in 1819 and was never revived inRossini’s lifetime. The composer was resigned:‘It is my little Guillaume Tell in Italian,’ he said,‘and will not see the light of day until after mydeath.’ Since its first stage revival in Pesaro in1987, Ermione has been recognised as a lost

www.opera-rara.com

Rage andferocity explodein Naples

OR 2010 CAT 01-40 N - Opera Rara · master’, Mercadante. ... Ermione – présenté en concert au...

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Transcript of OR 2010 CAT 01-40 N - Opera Rara · master’, Mercadante. ... Ermione – présenté en concert au...