Amore: Romantic Italian Love Songs

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
From Calaf's "Nessun dorma" from Turandot, in which the singer exclaims his love for the ice princess and the victory he will have over her, through Lionel's realization that he will have a new life and be happy with Lady Harriet in Martha ("M'appari"), and on to Rodolfo's falling in love with Mimi in La Bohème when he touches her hand ("Che gelida manina"): here we have some of opera's most beautiful love songs, sung by Pavarotti when he was in his golden-voiced prime. His "Una furtiva lagrima" is touching and gentle, while his rendition of the Neapolitan song "Core 'ngrato"--a diatribe against his lover's rejection of him--is heartbreaking. Radames's hymn to Aida ("Celeste Aida") in which he sees Aida as "the splendor of [his] life," is glorious, and all of the other selections are equally fine. For lovers and others, this is a handsome collection. --Robert Levine

Tracks:

'Turandot': Nessum Dorma!
O Sole Mio
La Danza
'Rigoletto': La donna e mobile
'Martha': M'appari tutt'amore
'La Boheme': Che gelida manina
Maira, Mari!
'L'elissir d'amore': Una furtiva lagrima
'Tosca': Recondita armonia
'Fedora': Amor ti vieta
Core 'ngrato
Funiculi-funicula
'Tosca': E lucevan le stelle
'Aida': Celeste Aida
'Pagliacci': Vesti la giubba
'La fanciulla del West': Ch' ella mi creda
Torna A Surriento

Amazon.com

From Calaf's "Nessun dorma" from Turandot, in which the singer exclaims his love for the ice princess and the victory he will have over her, through Lionel's realization that he will have a new life and be happy with Lady Harriet in Martha ("M'appari"), and on to Rodolfo's falling in love with Mimi in La Bohème when he touches her hand ("Che gelida manina"): here we have some of opera's most beautiful love songs, sung by Pavarotti when he was in his golden-voiced prime. His "Una furtiva lagrima" is touching and gentle, while his rendition of the Neapolitan song "Core 'ngrato"--a diatribe against his lover's rejection of him--is heartbreaking. Radames's hymn to Aida ("Celeste Aida") in which he sees Aida as "the splendor of [his] life," is glorious, and all of the other selections are equally fine. For lovers and others, this is a handsome collection. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Mostly as good as usual, some of the selections are excellent.......2006-02-22

Everybody knows Pavarotti has a good voice, whatever he sings it sounds great. In this CD I think he sounds better than the more recent recordings from him, e.g. the three tenor concerts. In my opinion I like "Una Furtiva Lagrima" the most, when his voice comes out he devoted such a sincerity throughout the song, I can just imagine that I am inside an opera house watching an excellent performance. "Nessun Dorma", which is one of his most "famous in singing well" aria, also excellent, his high notes are so beautiful and always beautiful (well...he is a king of high C man~ for real I rarely heard ppl can sing high notes better than him), but personally I like Franco Corelli singing "Nessun Dorma" more, and "Vesti la guibba" too (but of coz pavarotti also sound really good in this aria). As I read from some books, they said Pavarotti is the biggest lyric tenor nowadays, I think it is pretty true though. But one thing I found Pavarotti not "perfect" is, when he sings, mostly I just feel that "wow he sings this note beautifully", or "he sings everything perfectly", but not always have a feeling of "wow he melts my heart", or "wow he makes such a great atmosphere throughout the song", maybe because of his song selections. In general case I like Domingo and Mario Lanza better, when I heard Domingo sings I almost always feel his passion, musical sense, and communication to the audience; but in Pavarotti I dont always feel that, in this CD some of the song has this tiny problem too (like in "E lucevan le stelle", I really think he just "sounds well", I like Jose Carreras singing this song much better), but well this is just my personal opinion. However, his voice is a "legendary beautiful voice", that's 120% true. Again personally I highly recommend his "una furtiva lagrima", listen it and you won't regret it.

One of Pavarotti's best CDs.......2003-11-21

This is one of the best Pavarotti CDs I have listened to. It contains a great selection of 17 arias and Italian lyric songs. However, if you can afford it, "Pavarotti Greatest Hits: The Ultimate Collection" will offer more in a 2-CD set (a total of 41 arias and Italian lyric songs).

Luciano's greatest compilation CD.......2000-04-28

For over three decades Maestro Luciano Pavarotti has brought joy to human ears all around the world. Sure, the critics may scoff at the big arena concerts and at the later years' natural darkening of his voice. But we the fans just know that listening to him lifts our spirits and opens our hearts to the glory of human voice.

And that's exactly what this collection is all about. To compile it, the Decca producers used material from three albums: "Arias" (his earliest), "Favorite Neapolitan Songs" and "Passione," as well as some complete opera recordings such as "La Boheme" and "Rigoletto." The song "La Danza," Rossini's engaging tarantella is from a rare album "Pavarotti in Concert in Bologna" with Richard Bonynge. Most of these selections, therefore, are from 60s and 70s, in other words, Pavarotti's prime years. As he was establishing himself as one of the all-time greatest tenors on stage, he gave an all-out effort on recordings. And it shows. Listen to the vocal line in "Che gelida manina"; the breath control on "la speranza" is truly unbelievable. There is his signature aria "Nessun Dorma" and, of course, a song often mistaken for Italian National Anthem - Di Capua's "O Sole Mio!"

In addition to magnificent vocal pyrotechnics, Pavarotti's considerable acting-with-voice skills are represented on such demanding arias as "Celeste Aida" and "Vesti la Giubba". And it's a real treat to hear his Duca singing sparkling "La donna e mobile."

Tracks:

Celeste Aida
O mio babbino caro
Donna non vidi mai
Quando le sere al placido
Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voix
Una furtiva lagrima
Signore, ascolta!
Recondita armonia
Vissi d'arte
E lucevan le stelle
Habanera: L'amour est un oiseau rebelle
Amor ti vieta
Gualtier Malde...Caro nome
Cielo e mar
Quando m'en vo
La fleur que tu m'avais jetee
O mio Fernando
Pourquoi me reveiller
Voi che sapete
Un bel di (One fine day)
Nessun dorma

Customer Reviews:

listening to this cd.......2007-02-19

this is a wonderful cd. i have it in my car and listen to it all the time. you wont go wrong buying this cd if you love the operah and great voices.

If you are unsure about opera, this is where to begin.......2004-06-22

Many people are turned off of opera because of the nature of the beast - unknown tongue, the continual singing and particularly the sopranos whose voices are as piercing as they are diffdicult to understand. These selections are ravishing in their beauty. It has been estimated that 2/3 of all classical effort was put into opera. Thus it is not surprising that some of the best music ever penned can be found here, particularly those that deal with that most human of emotion - love.

The orchestration is wonderful, the voices emotional and quite sincere, the authenticity is present. It is difficult to surpass Verdi or Puccini in plumbing the emotional depths. All in all a good experience.

The Perfect Opera CD.......2002-08-08

I'm so in love with this CD, I'm giving it to as many ppl as I can. It's a great introduction to opera for ppl who don't listen to it very often. It has all the great hits with all the great singers, who can make shivers go down your spine. My friends who don't know opera as much as I do love it too.

Romantic.......2000-05-12

If you have just got to be interested in Opera, this is a good start. You can listen to the best pieces of the most famous (an romantic) Operas performed by the best singers. If you are a long-time Opera lover, this CD will remind you of all the performances that you went with your loved one and romantic moments after the concerts.

Average customer rating:

The most noble voice
PURCHASE THIS JEWEL WHILE YOU CAN
luminous artistry from a genius
A special Dignity and an Unfailing Beauty of Voice.

Songs Of Spain / De Los Angeles, et al

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Isabel Bayrakdarian ~ Azulão
The Fabulous Victoria De Los Angeles
The Maiden and the Nightingale: Songs of Spain
The Very Best of Victoria de los Angeles
On the Wings Of Song and Zarzuela Arias - Victoria de los Angeles

ASIN: B00000I4KQ
Release Date: 1999-02-23

Tracks:

El rossinyol
El testament d'Amelia
Adios meu homino
Mina nay por me casare
Tengo que subir
Ahi tienes mi corazon
La vi llorando
Ya se van los pastores
Campanas de Belen
Jaeneras que yo canto
A dormir ahora mesmo
Granadinas
Hincarse de rodillas
Cancion de trilla
Parado de Valldemosa
Nik baditut
Andregaya
Din, dan, boleran
Mariam matrem
Ay, triste vida corporal!
Que es mi vida, preguntais?
Porque es, dama, tanto quereros?
No me llames segalaherba
Ay, luna que reluces
En esta larga ausencia
Molinillo que mueles amores
Confiado jilguerillo
Seguidillas religiosas
Cancion de cuna
El jilguerillo con pico de oro
El canape

Tracks:

Ah, el novio no quiere dinero
Coma la rosa en la guerta
Estavase la mora
Aquel rey de Francia
Damos gracias a ti, Dios
Sobre Baca estaba el rey
Ay que non hay!
Rosa das rosas
Maravillosos e piadosos
Tres moricas m'enamoran
Paseabase el rey moro
Dime a do tienes las mientes
Si no's huviera mirado
Dexo la venda
Puse mis amores
Aqui me declaro su pensamiento
Pues que me tienes
Gentil dama, non se gana
Mi querer tanto vos quiere
Una hija tiene el rey
Una matica de ruda
Si la noche se hace oscura
Pastorcico, non te aduermas
Ay triste que vengo
No soy you quien la descrube
Pase el agua, Julieta
Aquel caballero, madre
Duelete de mi, Senora
De Antequera salio el Moro
De los alamos vengo, madre
Enfermo estaba Antioco
Dame acogida en tu hato
Morenica, dame un beso
Senora, si te olvidare
De donde venis, amore?

Tracks:

La rosa enflorece
Ven querida
Adio, querida
Durme, durme, hermozo hijico
Paxaro d'hermosura
Avrix, mi galanica
Irme quiero, la mi madre
Ya viene el cativo
Yo m'enamori d'un aire
Una matica de ruda
Anda, jaleo
Los cuatro muleros
Las tres hojas
Los mozos de Monleon
Las morillas de Jaen
Sevillanas del siglo 18
El cafe de Chinitas
Nana de Sevilla
Los pelegrinitos
Zorongo
Romance de Don Boiso
Los reyes de la baraja
La tarara
El combat del somni: Damunt de tu, nomes les flors
A l'ombra del Lledoner: Canco de grumet
Canciones negras: Cancion de cuna para dormir a un negrito
Cuatro madrigales amatorios: De los alamos vengo, madre
Coleccion de tonadillas: Callejeo
Coleccion de tonadillas: El tra la la y el punteado
Seis canciones castellanas: No quiero tus avellanas
Seis canciones castellanas: Jota
Panxolina
Tu pupila es azul
Cantos populares espanolas: Malaguena
Cantos populares espanolas: Granadina
Cantos populares espanolas: El Vito
Cantos populares espanolas: Pano murciano
Clavelitos
Adios, Granada
Madrigal

Tracks:

Coleccion de tonadillas: Amor y odio
Coleccion de tonadillas: Callejeo
Coleccion de tonadillas: El majo discreto
Coleccion de tonadillas: El majo olvidado
Coleccion de tonadillas: El majo timido
Coleccion de tonadillas: El mirar de la maja
Coleccion de tonadillas: El tra la la y el punteado
Coleccion de tonadillas: La maja de Goya
Coleccion de tonadillas: Las currutacas modestas
Tres majas dolorosas: Oh muerte cruel!
Tres majas dolorosas: Ay majo de mi vida
Tres majas dolorosas: De aquel majo amante
Goyescas: La maja y el ruisenor (Rosario)
'La vida breve': Vivan los que rien! (Salud - Act 1)
'La vida breve': Alli esta! Riyendo! (Salud - Act 2)
'Acis y Galatea': Confiado jilguerillo
El tripili
Llorad, corazon
Iban al pinar
No lloreis, ojuelos
Mananica era
Mira que soy nina
Gracia mia
El pano moruno
Seguidilla murciana
Asturiana
Jota
Nana
Cancion
Polo
'La Tempranica': Zapateado (La tarantula e un bicho mu malo)

Customer Reviews:

The most noble voice.......2004-05-28

Victoria de los Angeles' voice not only has a silken quality and fascinating glow to it but it is one of the most regal, noble sounds you'll ever hear. She illuminated those moments of quietness, gentleness and noble, feminine pride and elegance like no other soprano before and after her. This release of her "Spanish Songs" has never been surpassed. The songs of her homeland seem to have been written for her beautiful instrument alone, she fills every piece with special beauty and charm, religious flair and beautiful, noble simplicity. Buy this recording and see why Victoria is one of the best sopranos ever having come from Spain.

PURCHASE THIS JEWEL WHILE YOU CAN.......2002-01-08

FOR A LONG TIME "SONGS OF SPAIN" HAS BEEN MY FAVORITE ALBUM OF CLASSICAL, POPULAR, SECULAR AND RELIGIOUS (CHRISTIAN AND SEPHARDIC) SPANISH SONGS. DE LOS ANGELES DEFIES A RIVAL IN THIS GENRE. DE LARROCHA, SORIANO AND ZANETTI PROVIDE UNEQUALED ACCOMPANIEMENTS. THE RECORDINGS ARE SECOND ONLY TO LIFE PERFORMANCES. I UNDERSTAND THAT EMI INTENDS TO TAKE THIS SET OUT OF PUBLICATION. PURCHASE THIS JEWEL WHILE YOU CAN! I JUST PURCHASED MY THIRD SET FROM AMAZON AND I TREASURE IT AS MUCH AS MY FIRST!

luminous artistry from a genius.......2000-12-26

the vocal artist of vocal artistsdisplays her absolutely gorgeous voice and musical understanding of spanish feeling with a warmth that is unmatched anywhere.the only thing better was to hear her in person!

A special Dignity and an Unfailing Beauty of Voice........2000-09-17

This set offers four generously-filled CDs comprising almost 140 Spanish songs from Victoria de los Angeles' repertoire. To all of them she brings a special dignity and an unfailing beauty of voice. The earliest recordings date from 1950 and the last is the items she sang at the opening of the Barcelona Olympics in 1992. Yes, you will find the ubiquitous "Clavelitos!" here, and a later version of "La maya el ruisenor" from "Goyescas". The enclosed booklet provides illuminating notes by Lionel Salter, who also translated many of the texts which are also included. Accompanists include Gerald Moore and Alicia de Larrocha, and Victoria de Los Angeles provides a guitar accompaniment herself in one song. The last track of all, a zapateado from a zarzuela, recorded live in New York, must almost have brought the house down.

Average customer rating:

Exceptional Collection

Bedroom Adagios

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Midnight Adagios
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ASIN: B0000BWVBV
Release Date: 2003-09-09

Tracks:

Concerto For Harpischord, Strings, And Continuo No. 5 In F Minor, BWV 1056 - Raymond Leppard
Concerto Grosso In B Minor, Op. 6, No. 12 - The Academy Of St Martin-In-The-Fields
Pavane For A Dead Princess - Steve Erquiaga
Romance For String Orchestra - The Academy Of St Martin-In-The-Fields
Carnival Of The Animals - Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5 - Alexandre Lagoya
En Bateau - l'ochestre de la suisse romande
Humming Chorus - BBC Concert Orchestra
Sicilienne - Steve Erquaiaga
Italiana - The Academy Of St Martin-In-The-Fields
Una Furtiva Lagrima - BBC Concert Orchestra
Chanson De Matin, Op. 15, No. 2 - BBC Concert Orchestra
Suite In E Major For Lute, BWV 1006A/1000 - Eduardo Fernandez
Touch Her Soft Lips, And Part - Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Suite for Cello Solo No. 3 In C Major, BWV 1009 - Pepe Romero
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - Julian Lloyd Webber
Pavane - Nicholas Kraemer
Serenade For Strings In E Major, Op. 22 - The Academy Of St Martin-In-The-Fields

Tracks:

O Mio Babbino Caro - BBC Concert Orchestra
Cavatina - Goran Sollscher
La Fileuse - L'Orchestre De La Suisse Romande
Flower Duet (Sous Le Dome Epais) - BBC Concert Orchestra
Pied-En-L'Air - Nicholas Kraemer
Arioso - Steve Erquiaga
Two Aquarelles - English Chamber Orchestra
In Paradisum - Stephen Cleobury
After A Dream - Steve Erquiaga
Suite For Cello Solo No. 1 In G Major, BWV 1007 - Mischa Maisky
My Bonny Boy - The Academy Of St Martin-In-The-Fields
Concerto For Guitar In D Major, RV 93 - Eduardo Fernandez
Un Bel Di - BBC Concert Orchestra
Holbert Suite, Op. 40 - Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
Concerto For Oboe In D Minor, BWV 1059 - Heinz Holliger
Vissi D'Arte - BBC Concert Orchestra
Sheep May Safely Graze - William Bennett
Fantasia On Greensleeves - William Bennett

Customer Reviews:

Exceptional Collection.......2003-12-31

I have heard many, many classical "mood" collections, and this is one of the best, with many surprise selections.
It is consistently restful and calming.
I recommend it highly.

Pavarotti's Opera Made Easy: My Favorite Love Songs

Average customer rating:

Best Opera Collection

Pavarotti's Opera Made Easy: My Favorite Love Songs

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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

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ASIN: B00000424I
Release Date: 1994-08-23

Tracks:

Turandot: Nessun dorma!
Gianni Schicchi: O mio babbino caro
La Boheme: Che gelida manina
La Boheme: Musetta's Waltz Song
TOSCA: Recondita armonia
TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle
L'arlesiana: Federico's Lament
Madame Butterfly: Un bel di
The Girl Of The Golden West: Ch'ella mi creda libero
Aida: Celeste Aida
Manon Lescaut: Donna non vidi mai
The Elixir Of Love: Una furtiva lagrima
Martha: M'appari
Carmen: The Flower Song
Cavalleria Rusticana: O Lola
The Barber Of Seville: Ecco, ridente in cielo
Rigoletto: Caro nome
Samson And Delilah: Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voix
Faust: Quel trouble inconnu... Salut! demeure

Customer Reviews:

Best Opera Collection.......2006-06-08

I really never cared much for opera until I purchased this CD.Now I recognize a lot of music from movies and stage that are actually operas.Must Have CD!!!!!!!!!!!!

Average customer rating:

Rare gem of a contemporary singer.
Superb!
Good compilation--but don't buy it new
A Lieder Singer Who Also Does Opera
Simply Stunning

The Radiant Voice of Barbara Bonney
Barbara Bonney
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Im Chambre séparée: The Operetta Album

ASIN: B00005M05B
Release Date: 2001-07-24

Tracks:

Come Again: Sweet Love Doth Now Invite
Thy Hand, Belinda... When I Am Laid in Earth
Heute Noch, Lieber Vater, Tut Es Doch
Stabat Mater - Barbara Bonney/Andreas Scholl
Alleluia
Laudate Dominum
Deh, Vieni, Non Tardar
Ach, Ich Fuhl's
Chiedi All'aura Lusinghiera
Mondnacht
Solveigs Sang
Var Det En Drom?
Flickan Kom Ifran Sin Alsklings Mote
Morgen
Mir Ist Die Ehre Widerfahren
Die Nachtigall
In Trutina
Pie Jesu
Vocalise

Amazon.com

Of all the laudatory epithets applicable to Barbara Bonney, the term "radiant" might not be the one that springs to mind--at least, not insofar as it suggests the warm luxuriance of sunshine. Bonney's light, bright lyric soprano is something else: a voice of delicate refinement and transparent, pure-toned beauty. But it's capable of silkily seductive textures, too. And there are wonderful examples on this compilation disc that, if featuring a less-established artist, might qualify as a demo tape. Most of the tracks are previously issued, but together, they define her capabilities and home-base repertory, from Bach, Purcell, and Mozart through to Scandinavian song and Richard Strauss. With "Morgen," "Solveigs Sang," "The Presentation of the Rose" from Der Rosenkavalier, and "Ach, ich Fuhls" from The Magic Flute, this is a catalog of silver, if not golden, moments. Jewel-like singing and pure joy to hear. --Michael White

Customer Reviews:

Rare gem of a contemporary singer........2007-02-15

This is my first CD of Ms. Bonney.
I would say that Ms. Bonney is the greatest lyrical soprano of the late 20th century (she has retired last year from opera, I saw on the internet).
I've yet to hear another contemporary singer to beat her in her Susanna aria 'Deh vieni non tardar', or her Pamina aria.
Her Solveig's Song I took as a real vocal guide towards this song. Just listen to her 'ah' section and you will understand what I mean - such well nuanced musically line, such refined phrasing. Hard to beat.
Her opening song of Dowland is again a great wonder. Such drama built into so simple a song! Together with her Bach cantata, it reflect her vast span of repertoire that falls nowhere short of greatness.
Yes, I do not find her 'alleluia' from Exultate Jubilate 'very' exceptional, but this, as pointed out, may not be her best account of this work.
If she has really retired from opera then it is a great great loss indeed.

Superb!.......2005-12-03

Barbara Bonney has a very clear voice.
This is my favourite cd of her.

Good compilation--but don't buy it new.......2005-01-03

I am a decided Bonney fan. So it is with hesitation I give this disc only three stars (three and a half really, but I don't have that option). But, it does reflect my feelings about this cd. There are certain selections that are especially disappointing because seeing them listed on the cover was my motivation for purchasing the cd to begin with-- the rose presentation from "Rosenkavalier," for example. As far as I'm concerned, Miss Bonney is the best Sophie around today. But this recording doesn't do her justice. Her signature floating pianissimi on the high a's and b's seemed under par here. Too much gear-changing and some vibrato issues (slight, but perceptible). And I wasn't particularly thrilled with the mezzo on this recording. Perhaps I'm spoiled by seeing the Lott-Bonney-von Otter DVD (by the way, THAT'S a definite keeper, if you have the 40 dollars it costs. . . worth it!). The "Exsultate, Jubilate" was less than stellar. It seemed to me that the tempo was just a hair faster than she could comfortably sing the florid lines. The high "c" at the end sounded far too difficult for a soprano like Bonney who does have such easy beautiful high notes. Additionally, I would have liked to hear her sing the entire piece as opposed to just the "Alleluia". I wish the Weber "Pie Jesu" weren't included. I always skip it. There's too much glorious music that suits Bonney so well for her to waste an entire track on this silliness.

Having said all this, the album is not at all a complete loss. There are some truly fine moments on here too. The Mozart arias are wonderful. Her voice really has the appropriate sex appeal for Susanna's aria. That's a favorite of mine anyway. Love the Strauss! Like the Dowland to open the cd. And check out track 16, "Die Nachtigall." The first time I listened to the cd, I had to do a "double take" halfway through this song. I grabbed the cd case and liner notes to see if someone else were singing this piece (since there are several guests on this collection) because it simply didn't sound like the same person. There's a depth and steely quality to her voice that I had never heard from her before. I was amazed. I suspect that she couldn't sustain that sound comfortably for an extended amount of time, but I was still very impressed to hear that she has that capability.

I tend to be overly wordy, so I'll wrap up by saying that this is indeed a cd that is worth buying if you can find it for reasonably less than the retail price. It's worth having for some of the better moments on the recording, but might be somewhat disappointing if you have invested the full retail value (as I did).

A Lieder Singer Who Also Does Opera.......2003-03-04

Barbara Bonney is a phenomenon. With a rich and sensuous voice, she imparts more subtle emotional colors and musical nuances to the works she performs than any soprano in recent memory. To hear her sing is to come away with both a new understanding of the work and a heart full of joy. At the risk of seeming to hedge, however, I am less ecstatic about some of her performances of larger works. On this CD, for example, the "Laudate Dominum" seems strangely forced. (It is only because other of her albums are even more exquisite that I gave this one four stars. She deserves all the stars in the firmament.) But there is no comparison with her renderings of lieder, like the exquisite "Mondnacht." She is haunting, delicate, seductive - and all things in between. I have written elsewhere of the ongoing rediscovery of Robert Schumann. Ms. Bonney's recordings are, in my view, among those leading this revolution, which has led others besides this reviewer to consider Schumann's lieder even more remarkable than Schubert's. Her recent disc with songs of Liszt balanced by the "Dichterliebe" is so lovely as to be almost unearthly. Similarly, in a recording with Vladimir Ashkenazy, she sings the "Frauenliebe und Leben," excerpts from Eichendorff's "Liederkreis," and champions to excellent effect a number of sumptuous lieder by Clara Schumann. This is by way of saying that what Ms. Bonney herself asserts is accurate: that she is a lieder singer first and foremost. Her Richard Strauss and Sibelius are subtle, powerful and passionate. The Mozart arias are sprightly and, where called for, sexy as well. She also works wonders with Andrew Lloyd Weber and Andre Previn, though I think she really deserves to sing better material. This is a marvelous overview of Ms. Bonney's range, and while I am always suspicious of hagiography in program notes, here I can only say "Amen"!

Simply Stunning.......2002-03-28

Radiant aptly describes the voice of Barbara Bonney. Her silvery tones, the effortless highs, and the quality of her pianissimo are simply stunning. Her voice shimmers with life, and love, and color. The music selections are varied and a grand example of the beauty of Barbara's instrument and artistry. This disk is a heavenly collection of some of the best lyric soprano literature and is pure joy to listen to.

The Complete Recordings, 1902-1920 (Box Set)

Average customer rating:

Get It While You Can
Essential edition for opera lovers

The Complete Recordings, 1902-1920 (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

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

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Ladino | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
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Bach: Cantatas, Vol. 22
Caruso 2000
The Complete Caruso
Wagner: Götterdämmerung
Classic Puccini Recordings

ASIN: B00030B92K
Release Date: 2004-11-23

Album Description

The Complete Caruso: Volumes 1 - 12

The Italian tenor Enrico Caruso holds a unique place in musical history, as the first operatic singer whose recordings sold in millions, and who created an international reputation on the strength of these. Caruso's robust tone and musical sincerity made him both an ideal stage and recording artist, whose voice the primitive acoustic recording technology of the early twentieth century was able to reproduce with startling fidelity. The Naxos Historical Caruso edition constitutes the complete cycle of all Caruso's recordings issued in chronological order. In addition, the transfers have been immaculately undertaken by top sound engineer Ward Marston, unrivalled for his knowledge of the specialized world of acoustic opera recordings, and his rare ability to retrieve all of the music lying in the grooves of the original recordings. Naxos Historical's incredible price (12 CD'S FOR THE PRICE OF 10) puts this unique legacy of great singing within the reach of all music-lovers. This! complete cycle of recordings represents a major document in the history of sound recording, and one which no collector and enthusiast of great singing will wish to be without. "There is no series of vocal records that have a greater documentary value, that meant more to the development of the phonograph record, or that are as consistently capable of providing pleasure to lovers of great singing. ...One of the most significant recording industry events of the decade." Fanfare

Customer Reviews:

Get It While You Can.......2006-10-13

This may not be easy to get in the USA for very long.....don't miss it.

Essential edition for opera lovers.......2005-02-01

This set gives you the opportunity to follow the entire recording career of one of the greatest singers in Operatic History. Enrico Caruso was the first superstar of the 20th century -- and this without the benefit of mass media. His person and his records were his greatest publicity.

The set begins with Caruso's Italian made recordings. They show a great raw talent. The artistry is lacking with many sobs, over acting and mistaken cues. The 1902 and 1903 clearly show a tenor with a lot to learn. But learn it he did. His 1904 sessions show a mature artist on par with any heard since. His voice matures before your very ears and by 1910, you wonder if you will ever listen to any other tenor the same way again.

The engineering used for this set is wonderful. There is no attempt at all to use the soundstream process of computer sound enhancement as heard on the RCA issued sets. These are near perfect mint conditioned discs copied by engineer extraordinary Ward Marston. They sound like natural 78s, they way Caruso himself must have heard the playbacks at the (RCA) Victor studios.

Also included are outtakes and extra takes. There is a "Celeste Aida" from 1908, complete with a broken high note, previously released by RCA in a 1973 set commemorating the tenor's centenary birthday. But there are new treasures here as well, including extra takes of two of Caruso's greatest recordings, the Italian song "L'Alba separa dalla l'uce ombra" and an aria from Rubinestine's Nerone. Listening to them, one wonders what Caruso could have possible thought inadquate in those long lost altenative takes.

Finally, there is the simple joy of hearing so many things so well sung. Caruso was the pinnacle of the tenor art. He can be compared to no other single tenor since ... he has the brilliant ring of Bjorling, the passion of Gigli, the beauty of Gedda, the youthful enthusiasm of Lanza, the warm tonal quality of Tucker, the pure strength of Corelli, the charasma of Pavarotti and the artestry of Domingo.

Whether you are an opera fan, a voice fan or just a music lover. This set is worth every penny.

Todd Kosovich

Amore Italiano - Romantic Italian Love Songs

Average customer rating:

Romantic Italian songs adds ambiance to any occasion.

Amore Italiano - Romantic Italian Love Songs
Marco Missinato
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | International | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00000IBJT
Release Date: 1998-12-30

Tracks:

Roberta
T'Amo T'Amero'
L'Italiano
Come Vorrei
Tristezza
Il Mondo
Marina
Torna A Surrento
Vedrai Verdrai
Piccolissima Serenato
Guarda Che Luna
Volare (Dance)

Album Description

Classic Italian love songs provide romantic ambiance to your special moments.

Customer Reviews:

Romantic Italian songs adds ambiance to any occasion........1999-06-10

I had the pleasure of hearing Marco at restaurant and was so mesmerized by his voice and the songs that I forgot about the meal! This CD gives you the experience of Italy even if you have never been there. He sings with passion, with love, from his heart. I highly recommend this CD as Marco's romantic smooth, soothing singing style complements any occasion.

Dame Eva Turner - The Collected Recordings

Average customer rating:

Interesting representation of the singer
Voice of a Legend

Dame Eva Turner - The Collected Recordings

Manufacturer: Pearl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00004C8TK
Release Date: 2000-04-25

Customer Reviews:

Interesting representation of the singer.......2003-11-07

Eva Turner was condemned to be remembered as a one role singer; the role of Turrandot. Her artistry went far beyond that. She was a slow starter in many ways, and it took a considerable amount of time for major houses outside Italy to notice her. Yes, she was enjoyed and used in the Italian opera houses, but ignored in her own land. Eventually, she made her debut there and was a hit. Her voice is not to everyone's liking, and some critics found her interpretations very "ordinary." Some felt she couldn't color her voice enough to render complete interpretations of the roles she sang.

The real problem was her voice was not subtle at all. Through her development it grew and grew in size (many other singers didn't want to sing with her, not because of her personality -- she was a trouper, but because they had to strain so to be heard when singing with her). As with all very large voices, the virtues are astonishing and the vices just as pronounced. Perhaps she was not capable of much subtle coloring as many smaller voices were capable of, but she was able to "raise the roof" in the theatres she sang in, and present a very powerful living drama. Her intonation was nearly perfect at all times. And, unlike is often thought, she had great stage presence.

Finally, when a role came her way, one in which she had no competition, people were willing to actually open their ears and hear what she had to offer.

This set of recordings is very interesting to listen to. Yes, as with all "complete works of anyone" we hear repeats of various arias. The key then is to listen and see what changes had developed as the performer expanded their understanding of the role. Few singers really show much development in that regard. In this case, there are improvements that we hear from time to time.

Some of the pieces recorded do nothing for me, and I wouldn't have wasted the time recording them, however, they reflect what producers were having singers record at that time.

One role that Turner sang and excelled in was the Leonora from Trovatore. Yes, she had the necessary agility. She even produced a beautiful trill. Sadly, nothing here gives evidence to this fact.

I recommend this recording for those interested in having recordings of this great and under appreciated singer who had so much to give. I recommend it also for those interested in hearing a truly huge voice (some say that even Nilsson could come close to the power of Turner) recorded with minimal destortion. We are not able to know exactly how magnificent her voice really was, not even through these recordings, but we can hear the even quality of her noble instrument.

It is a pricey set, but for those who are interested in historic recordings of very famous singers, I would recommend it.

Voice of a Legend.......2001-01-13

Dame Eva Turner was arguably the greatest singer that England produced in the last century. Sadly, she was also one of the most under-recorded singers in history. This compilation finally releases in one package all of the material that we know of at this time. Unfortunately, that means that there are numerous recordings of the same arias, done at different times. Rumors continue as to the existence of more material in the vaults of companies in England, but none of that is available.

What you will hear is the voice of the definitive Turandot, a role which Dame Eva premiered in many houses, though the first performance of the opera was sung by Rosa Raisa. However, Franco Alfano, who completed the opera after Puccini's death proclaimed Dame Eva as the perfect Turandot. She effortlessly produces enormous waves of sound that are, at turns, steely or supple. Her instrument was one that has only been equaled by the great Birgit Nilsson.

Tracks:

Donna E Mobile [From Rigoleto]
Serenade: Vien Al Mio Grido d'Amor
Core 'Ngrato (Catari, (Catari)
Recondita Armonia
E Lucevan le Stelle
Parigi, O Cara
Love Duet: Vogliatemi Bene
O Soave Fanciulla
Parlami d'Amore Mariu
Una Furtiva Lagrima
Mamma Mia, Che Vo' Sap
Improvviso: Un Di All'azzuro Spazio
Vesti la Giubba
'A Vucchella
O Paradiso
Marechiare
Lolita
Mattinata
Spagnola
Torna a Surriento
O Sole Mio

Tracks:

Donkey Serenade
More Than You Know
Loveliest Night of the Year
I Love Thee (Ich Liebe Dich)
Kiss
Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise
Song of Songs
Granada
Without a