Carino

Track Listings

1. Cariño

2. Guillermina

3. Sacúdete

4. No Mas Que Salga la Luna

5. Martin Vargas

6. Con Amor y Tristeza

7. Acordeón de Sirenio

8. Beso

9. Ya No Llores Corazón

10. Mil Juramentos

Carino,Tropical Del Su,T.H. Rodven,Latin,Tropical

Carino

Customer Reviews:

Wild Variations of Quality.......2006-12-15

While many selections on this disc are enjoyable, some are absolutely execrable. Leontyne Price's performance of "He shall feed his flock/Come unto him" from "Messiah" is almost unbearably embarrassing to listen to, as is Mirella Freni's horrible "O Mio Babbino Caro." Equally baffling is the choice of Renata Tebaldi's "Un bel di", when there are far better performances of it available. A late recording of Birgit Nilsson's "Komm, o Hoffnung" does not do justice either to her or to Beethoven. One wonders why there are multiple tracks of Joan Sutherland, Cheryl Studer, and Montserrat Caballe, yet equally fine singers such as Margaret Price, Luciana Serra, and Hildegard Behrens are unrepresented. Get a pair of earplugs before listening to June Anderson's off-pitch, shrill quacking, hooting, and shrieking rendition of "Glitter and Be Gay," surely a lowlight of the album.

Wonderful.......2006-07-31

I picked up this cd at the library and it just blew me away! What a great collection! I highly recommend it.

A real winner with plenty of talent........2004-10-06

This 2-CD selection from Deutsche Grammophon, "Masters of the Voce, Soprano" follows a review we did earlier on the "Masters" series for tenors in which we rated the tenor package a success. This offering succeeds on multiple levels as well and proves to be an equally enjoyable listen. DG has put together 30 popular and diverse arias that not only give us a good sampling of some of the finest opera music being performed, but provides a sampling of some of the greatest operatic talent to sing those arias. We state at the outset that when reviewing a CD selection such as this, we don't set out to review the talent; the performers are first in their class and need only be acknowledged. Their work is neither new nor novel here. Rather, it is in the way the package is put together that earns either praise or criticisms - and no other. And that's what we offer here. First, with regard to the technical aspects of the recording: it is as you would expect from a digital transfer - smooth, clear and even throughout. This is a major plus when you consider that the performances were all recorded under differing circumstances, with different orchestras and choruses. Next, there is the selection of music. This can be tricky if not done well, but it was done well here and as a result gives us a pleasurable listening experience that offers continuity - meaning you don't have to sit with a clicker in hand waiting for that one cut that just seems out of place. There's none of that here; it's an enjoyable listen throughout. Lastly, but certainly not least, and what elevates this selection is the diversity of truly superstar singers. Joan Sutherland's lyric beauty truly shines when singing Rossini's "Bel raggio lusinghier" from "Semiramide" and "Ah, je veux vivre" from Gounod's "Romeo & Juliet", and the "Bell Song" from Delibes "Lakme". And it isn't just Sutherland's delivery that gets our attention. Brigit Nilsson's dramatic power in "Battle Cry" from Wagner's "Die Walkure" raises the hair on the back of ones neck. They're all here: Cheryl Studer, Kathleen Battle, Leontyne Price, Renee Fleming, Mirella Freni, Renata Tabaldi, Angela Gheorghu and more. Throughout, "Masters of the Voice: Soprano" offers a nice cross section from the lyric coloratura to the dramatic soprano, and a solid display of technical expertise in the way that the music is blended such that this 2 CD set can be added to anyone's collection with assurance that it will be enjoyed and listed to for years to come - and why not, it's some of the best.

Mozart for Mommies and Daddies - Jumpstart your Newborn's IQ

Average customer rating:

Nice to listen
why?
Nice compilation; good brand
5 stars for the music, 1 star for the lies they tell you
Superior Performances. Mozart is Food for the Brain.

Mozart for Mommies and Daddies - Jumpstart your Newborn's IQ

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Mozart for Mothers-To-Be: Tender Lullabies for Mother and Child
UltraSound - Music for the Unborn Child
Beethoven for Babies
Bach for Babies
Build Your Baby's Brain

ASIN: B00001X57C
Release Date: 1999-10-12

Tracks:

Waking Up: Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star Theme
Waking Up: Papageno's Song (From The Magic Flute)
Waking Up: Minuet In F, K. 1D
Waking Up: Minuet In F, K..2
Waking Up: Minuet In G, K. 1-1 E- Minuet In C, K. 1-F
Waking Up: Papageno's Love Song (A Pretty Maiden For Me)
Morning Playtime: Four Dances From Five Country Dances: Country Dance No. 1 In C
Morning Playtime: Four Dances From Five Country Dances: Country Dance No. 2 In E Flat
Morning Playtime: Four Dances From Five Country Dances: Country Dance No. 3 In D Major
Morning Playtime: Four Dances From Dive Country Dances: Country Dance No. 4 In C
Morning Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': Notte E Giorno Faticar
Morning Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': Madamina (Part 1)
Morning Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': Minuet (Final Party Scene, Act 1)
Morning Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': Monostato's Aria (From The Magic Flute)
Morning Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': From Six Minuets -- Minuet No. 5 In F Major
Morning Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': From Six German Dances -- German Dance No. 5 In G Major
Mid-Day Naptime: Concerto for Flute, Harp & Orchestra -- Andantino
Afternoon Playtime: Sonata in C (for Beginners) -- Allegro
Afternoon Playtime: Sonata in A -- Theme And Variations I-III
Afternoon Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': Love Duet: La Ci Darem La Mano
Afternoon Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': Champagne Aria
Afternoon Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': Don Juan's Serenade
Afternoon Playtime: Wind Serenade On Themes From 'Don Giovanni': 12 Variations In C On Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
And So To Bed: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik -- Romance (Andante)
And So To Bed: Wind Serenade On Themes From Don Giovanni- Vedrai, Carino
And So To Bed: Clarinet Quintet In A - Larghetto

Customer Reviews:

Nice to listen.......2007-05-10

Not quite sure what would be the relation of classic music with baby's IQ. I have seen some prenatal DVD talking about studies showing that toddlers with musical practice get better test scores than the group without stimulation from music; same as color and geometry shapes.

why?.......2005-10-28

Why do they keep making these "Mozart (and other composers) for..." CDs? I know I know. For idiots to buy them of course so the record company can make tons of money. But I feel it's an insult to classical music. No offense but Mozart didn't write this music for your unborn child. He couldn't care less to tell you the truth. I think he'd be pretty mad seeing how his music is being exploited these days. Why can't people just buy and listen to classical music as it was intended. Buy a set of Mozart's violin concertos or maybe Don Giovanni if you're so inclined. But not this "potpourri excerpts from his work" trash. Another option is to listen to the local classical radio station. Gosh, these kinds of CDs have gone too far. What's next - "Tchaikovsky for Taking a Dump"? Sheeesh....Don't suport this if you care about preserving an art...

Nice compilation; good brand.......2005-07-19

I really like this series of compilations that Phillips has released. I own a number of these discs, and they are all quality recordings. Because I know that the music is excellent, and I trust the brand, discs such as Mozart for Mommies and Daddies make wonderful gfits. I have given this particular one to a number of my friends who have had children recently. It is a great way to introduce your child, or your family (you included) to classical music. Recommended.

5 stars for the music, 1 star for the lies they tell you.......2005-03-12

When it comes to the music, you certainly can do worse than this, but PLEASE, people, enough with this "Mozart makes baby smarter" BS, it SIMPLY ISN'T TRUE. This is all based on extremely tenuous data that has never stood up to empirical testing, and these days serves more as an excuse for hucksters to buy the rights to assorted recordings, slap together a Mozart CD on the cheap, and make a few quick bucks.

Are you just using this for your kid to fall asleep by? I guess that is all well and good, but it doesn't have to be Mozart. Branch out a little, for crying out loud! My 19-month-old daughter went to sleep a couple of nights ago to Stravinsky's "Symphony of Psalms," and last week it was Copland's "Billy the Kid" ballet. If she turns out to be a brainiac, I doubt very much it is from the music, although I hope she grows up to have a more sophisticated musical palate than her peers. But it has been my experience that if she is tired enough, she will fall asleep to damn near anything. If that is the case, why enrich some scam artist?

Superior Performances. Mozart is Food for the Brain........2002-11-17

What differentiates this collection from other "Mozart for young children" CD's is that it is played by classical music virtuosos. Some of the biggest names are included, and the performances are outstanding.

Playing quality music like this on a daily basis in the background or in the car will help your child's development in many areas. Mozart is food for the brain.

Tracks:

The Marriage of Figaro - The Letter Duet-Canzonetta sull'aria "Che soave zeffiretto"
The Marriage of Figaro - Susanna's Air: Deh vieni, non tardar
Don Giovanni - Zerlina's Air: Vedrai carino
Cosi fan tutte - Terzettino: Soave sia il vento
La Clemenza di Tito - Duet: Ah perdona al primo affetto
Cosi fan tutte - Di scrivermi ogni giorno
The Marriage of Figaro - Cherubino's Air: Voi che sapete
Don Giovanni - Don Giovanni's Serenade: Deh vieni alla finestre
Zaide - Rube sanft, mein holdes Leben
Il Re Pastroe - L'amero, saro costante
Nehmt meinen Dank, ihr holden Gonner
Idomeneo - Zeffiretti lusinghiere
Idomeneo - Se il padre perdei
The Abduction from the Seraglio - Pedrillo's Serenade (A Moorish Romance): In Mohrenland gefangen war
The Marriage of Figaro - Flower Chorus: Ricevete, o padroncina
The Magic Flute - Boys' Trio: Zum Ziele fuhrt dich dies Bahn
The Magic Flute - Boys' Trio (Welcome A Second Time): Seid uns zum zweiten Mal wilkommen
The Magic Flute - Papageno's Air: Der Vogelfanger bin ich ja
The Magic Flute - Papageno's Love Song: Ein Madchen oder Weibchen
The Magic Flute - Pa Pa Pa Pa Pa Pa
Cosi fan tutte - Despina's Aria: Una donna a quindici anni
Das Kinderspiel

Customer Reviews:

An Alternative view for moms.......2004-07-15

The review by the previous listener who was, dissapointed that this recording, received as a gift, is opera was apparently looking for "soothing" music (possibly elevator music)to put her and possibly her child-to-be to sleep. I agree - if jello is what you seek, do not purchase this disc. If, on the other hand, you seek passion, beauty, and possibly a widening of your musical horizons, do, by all means, purchase this disc. Soaring arias, heavenly voices and the most lovely music imaginable await you. Still, Richard Clayderman and Britney Spears are available to you and your unfortunate child.

Good if you like Opera.......2004-02-11

I received this CD as a gift and was very disappointed to discover it was opera. I have other CD's of Mozart's music that are instrumental and very soothing. If you like opera then it may be a good choice for you, but if you are like me and don't care for opera you are probably better off sticking to an instrumental collection.

Average customer rating:

A Superstar To Remember
I'm am so glad I found this CD!
My growing affection
A great voice and a great lady!
A Bible of Soprano Singing

Very Best of
Mirella Freni
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

The Very Best of Victoria de los Angeles
Very Best of
A Celebration
The Very Best of Lucia Popp
The Very Best of Giuseppe di Stefano

ASIN: B000083GOK
Release Date: 2003-04-22

Tracks:

Quel Guardo Il Cavalier...So Ancho'io
Si. Mi Chiamano Mimi - Nicolai Gedda
Addio...D' Onde Lieta Usci - Nicolai Gedda
Vissi D'arte
Un Bel Di Vedremo
Son Pochi Fiori
Ecco! Respiro Appena...Lo Son L'umile Ancella
Poveri Fiori
C'est Des Contrebandiers...Je Dis Que Rien Ne M'epouvent
Me Voila Seul...Comme Autrefois
Allons!...Adieu, Notre Petite Table
Je Voudrais Bien Savoir...Il Etait Un Roi De Thule...Ah ! Je Ris (Jewel Song)
Voyons, Nourrice...Je Veux Vivre
O Nuit Divine ! - Franco Corelli

Tracks:

Vedrai, Carino
O Rendetemi La Speme...Qui La Voce Sua Soave...Vien Diletto
E' Stano...Ah! Fors' E Lui...Sempre Libera
Chi Il Bel Sogno Di Doretta
O Mio Babbino Caro
Senza Mamma
Signore, Ascolta
Tu, Che Di Gel Sei Cinta
Son Giunta!...Madre, Pietosa Vergine
Pace, Pace Mio Dio!
Ritorna Vincitor!
Qui Radames Verra...O Patria Mia
Mia Madre Avea Una Povera Ancella...Piangea Cantando... - Stefania Malagu
Ave Maria

Customer Reviews:

A Superstar To Remember.......2007-01-10

I fell in love with opera because of Mirella Freni. I heard her sing Mimi to Pavarotti's Rodolfo in La Boheme about 30 years ago. Hearing this CD was like seeing a long-lost love, and appreciating them even more this time around.

Freni was a Puccini specialist, and you get an embarrasment of Puccini riches on this CD. Of course, you get the arias "Si, mi chiamano Mimi" and "Addio...D'Onde lieta usci" from La Boheme. Those also feature the incredible Niccolai Gedda. I sure would have liked it if they threw in "O soave fanciulla" as well. You also get arias from Tosca, Madama Butterfly, La Rondine, Gianni Schicci, Suor Angelica, and Turandot.

But wait, there's more! I had not heard Freni sing Micaela until this CD. Wait until you hear the "Je dis que rien ne m'epouvant". It will set you free. Then she throws in "Comme autrefois" from Pearl Fishers. Donizetti, Cilea, Mascagni, Massenet, Bellini, Gounod, Mozart, even Verdi(!)...all here.

There was one thing I found unusual about this compilation, and that was the noticeable absence of "Dove sono" and/or "Porgi amor". I mean, those roles are clearly in the reach of any lyric soprano. I did a little research, and found that she really didn't sing the Countess role in Figaro, she sang Susanna! OK, so let's just say her voice was on the light end of the lyric fach. If that's the case, it makes selections from Tosca, Butterfly, Traviata, Turandot, and Forza kind of curious, doesn't it?

In the end, it doesn't matter. This is an awesome compilation from one of the greatest sopranos of all time. No one is like Freni, and no opera lover should be without this performance record.

Highly recommended.

I'm am so glad I found this CD!.......2004-07-17

I'm a casual opera fan and I admit that until a few days ago I didn't even know who Mirella Freni was. Then a friend, whose taste I respect mentioned that an Italian lady named Freni was the second greatest Violetta he'd ever heard. He went into raptures and I decided that I had to hear this woman. This morning I bought the CD, put it in my player and was astounded and delighted to hear one of the sweetest voices I have ever heard in my life. Mirella Freni's singing is simply beautiful.

My growing affection.......2004-05-25

Freni is a soprano I didn't much care for in the past. For some reason I took her for granted and didn't listen to her records a lot. However, in search for an lyric soprano with ample coloratura to tackle bel canto roles as well, Freni was one of the few I could think of who had the qualities I was looking for; unmistakeable Italian phrasing and musicality, a firm middle register with an easy top and a sweet timbre.

This new release is a great introduction to her big recording legacy. She didn't possess the largest instrument but her technique and wise choices allowed her to expand her repertoire in many areas. The lyrical roles such as Zerlina, Mimi, Liu suit her the best but notice how a more florid part like Norina in Don Pasquale or even the more demanding Puritani Elvira benefits from her firm lyric sound. She avoids the highest notes and if needed sings them carefully but everything is so charmingly sung that a single note cannot ruin the whole. Sincere classical singing does not lie in a single note. Even without the large voice these roles need, she handles the heavy Verdi parts impressively. "O patria mia" and especially Desdemona's scene are magnificient.

This collection has increased my admiration for this wonderful artist. If all the sopranos were flowers in a garden, Freni would be a lovely daisy.

A great voice and a great lady!.......2004-02-07

Mirella Freni's singing even today when she's over sixty still teaches all the young sopranos a lesson how a voice can be preserved. Her singing is lovely, creamy and colourful. She's by far my favourite Liu and part of the Mimi-Triumvirate: Victoria de los Angeles, Maria Callas and Mirella Freni. Her first Mimi with Nicolai Gedda was a revelation, the complete set is a must for ever Puccini-Lover. And despite its not being idiomatic and her poor French her Juliette is riveting and lovely. But my favourite Freni-role will always be Elisabetta in Verdi's "Don Carlo" which she sang to perfection on a live-recording from La Scala (Abbado) featuring Carreras, Ghiaurov, Obraszowa etc. etc. An amazing set for those who want to know why Mirella is still adored today!

A Bible of Soprano Singing.......2003-04-30

Many of these items were available on different cd, now out of print. That disc introduced me to the art of Mirella Freni, and one listening had me hooked. Mirella Freni is my favorite artist in any genre. She has taken such good care of her voice that she is still singing and getting fantastic reviews at the age of 68. She started off by singing lyric/coloratura roles such as Adina, Susanna, Zerlina, Micaela, the Puritani Elvira, then came Mimi, Juliette, Violetta, Marguerite, Manon, which which had heavier orchestrations. The seventies saw Freni's voice expanding and growing naturally very unlike Renata Scotto, who pushed her voice to sing roles too heavily orchestrated. Scotto is a great artist, but nobody can deny the fact that her voice turned terribly shrill. New roles for Freni were Desdemona, Elisabetta, Aida, Tosca and Butterfly (on record) and Boito's Marguerita. Never forcing or pushing, she sang these roles with great success and beautiful tone. She also was expanding emotionally and her characterizations grew deeper and more intense. In the 80's, she continued to expand her repertoire, though not giving up old roles, to include Manon Lescaut, Adriana Lecouvreur, Tschaikovsky's Tatyana and Liza with incredible results. She still added new roles in the 90's and into the 21st century, Fedora, Madame Sans Genes and Tschaikovsky's Maid of Orleans (a mezzo role). Unlike Tebaldi and other Italian sopranos, Freni often sang roles in their original language, French, Russain and songs in German. We only get to hear French and Italian here, and I strongly urge any opera lover to seek out her recordings on other labels than EMI. DG, for her wonderful Manon Lescaut, 2nd Butterfly, 2nd Tosca, Tatyana, Boccanegra's Amelia. On London/Decca, her Mimi (legendary), Butterfly, Nedda, Nannetta, Margharita, Mathilde, Tosca, the Trittico heroines (a Suor Angelica that is supreme).
Now, about the singing on this disc:
The Pasquale aria is nicely done (though I prefer Sill's rendition). The Boheme numbers are legendary, enough said. The Tosca aria is my favorite of all soprano's and ever Freni's (she recorded it at least twice more), beautiful and slow. Her Butterfly is regarded as "model" and her singing of both arias are intense and heart wrenching. Her Amico Fritz arias are perfectly judged and performed. The Adriana arias are fine, though they would grow in character when she took on the full role in the 80's and I prefer her later recording of them for Decca on her Verismo Arias disc. Her Micaela is also regarded as legendary and this recording shows why. The Pearl Fishers, Faust and Manon arias are gorgeously sung with golden tone and the Romeo arias show her technical skills in coloratura, well done. Her Mozart, too, is wonderful, receiving praise from, of all people, Renata Scotto in her autobiography. Her Violetta is secure and rich with brilliant coloratura in the Sempre Libera section. Her Doretta is ok, with some odd breath points that should have been eliminated. The other Puccini sections are very special, showing what a superb Puccinian she is. She is a commanding Verdian in the Forza arias, but the acoustic is horrible. Her singing is worth it, though. The Aida items are intense and with long breaths. I just love her as Aida but the engineers did not capture her voice as richly as it was at that time. Still this is masterful singing of difficult music. Willow Song and Ave Maria are, in my mind, the best ever committed to disc. If you are not under her spell in these tracks, then you must be stone-hearted. My only regret is that her gorgeous Tu che le vanita from Don Carlos is not included here......a serious omission!!!!!
This is a great showcase for a supreme artist. Buy it.....you won't regret it!

Vesselina Kasarova - Mozart Arias / Sir Colin Davis

Average customer rating:

Vividly Mozart
One of the most exciting voices of our times
One of the most exciting voices of our times

Vesselina Kasarova - Mozart Arias / Sir Colin Davis
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Dresden Staatskapelle , Sir Colin Davis , and Vesselina Kasarova
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Kasarova, Vesselina | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

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

Vesselina Kasarova - A Portrait
Love Entranced: French Opera Arias
Vesselina Kasarova - Rossini Arias and Duets / Flórez, Fagan
Vesselina Kasarova - Schubert, Brahms, Schumann Lieder
Cecilia Bartoli - Mozart Arias

ASIN: B000003G6Q
Release Date: 1997-08-12

Tracks:

Cosi Fan Tutte, K. 588: Ah, scostasi; Smanie implacabili, che m'agitate (Dorabella)
Le nozze di Figaro, KV. 492: Non so piu cosa son, cosa faccio (Cherubino)
Idomeneo, K. 366: Non ho colpa (Idamante)
Idomeneo, K. 366: March Of The Priests
Idomeneo, K. 366: Ah, qual gelido orror; Il padre adorato (Idamante)
Mitridate, re di Ponto, K. 87: Venga pur, minacci e frema (Farnace)
Don Giovanni, K. 527: Vendrai, carino (Zerlina)
Mitridate, Re Di Ponto: Gia dagli occhi il velo e tolto (Farnace)
Don Giovanni: In quali eccessi, o Numi; Mi tradi, quell'alma ingrata (Donna Elvira)
Lucio Silla, K. 135: Il tenero momento (Cecilio)
La Clemenza di Tito, K. 621: Ecco il punto; Non piu di fiori vaghe catene (Vitellia)
La Clemenza di Tito, K. 621: March: Maestoso
La Clemenza di Tito, K. 621: Deh, per questo istante sole (Sesto)
Concert Aria, K.ANH.245: Io ti lascio, oh cara, addio

Amazon.com

Ours is an age happily rich in lyric mezzo-sopranos who can handle the challenges of the coloratura repertoire of Rossini and Mozart. One of the most exciting is Bulgarian mezzo Vesselina Kasarova, who combines beauty of voice, intelligence of interpretation, and dramatic conviction in one very talented package. Here she is in her element, as a passionate Dorabella, an ardent Idamante, and--making a good case for a mezzo in roles usually given to a soubrette--a very sexy Zerlina, among others. The instrumental-only interludes weren't really necessary, but at least they fit in with the rest of the album. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Vividly Mozart.......2006-05-11

Frau Kasarova is a vivid story teller. She has an expressive voice of many colors and she isn't shy about using them to accentuate these difficult Mozart arias. Hers is a rather quirky voice... I find it mesmerizingly erotic and exotic...tho perhaps not as 'conventionally' beautiful like Kozena's or Graham's. She has a full mature burgandy colored voice that's clarinet-ish. Ringing top that has no trouble hitting high C, and a more masculine bottom. It is the mixed middle that is positively seductively rich. The whole range is seamlessly integrated but not always presented as such (she has a way of making her register breaks a very effective interpretation tool).

Anyway, there is never any doubt what the essence of each aria is... what the character she is portraying is feeling. She seems more concern with communicating the characters' motivations than sounding beautiful. I love that... others who enjoy technically flawless (even at the expense of drama) singing may not like it. This singer is very dramatically involve and doesn't make good "relaxing background music."

She is especially great with the castrato arias from Mitridate, Idomeneo, and La clemenza di Tito (both as Sesto and as Vitellia!). What wicked mania in Farnace's scornful laugh in 'Venga pur'! The coldness of her second pass at "L'ira sua mi rendera" sends chill down my spine. And Farnace's real reversal and penitent is heard in his 'Gia dagli il velo'. To say that her Zerlina is sensual is an understatement! And her Sesto's 'Deh, per questo istante solo' is so emotionally revealing. Beautiful pianissimo contrasted by blasted forte that would move the stoniest heart! She is one of the best Sesto ever on stage (both vocally and theatrically), but her 'Non piu di fiori' is so marvellously done that I dream of hearing her take on Vitellia (She does have the high D...as a direct and lingering hit on it is caught on tape in her Rossini Arias & Duets CD). But perhaps not... an instrument like this should be protected from such treacherous tessitura. Better not kill the goose who lays golden eggs.

I'd never expect such a forcefully pinging top from a deep mezzo (amazing chest register...and just about the most agile coloratura voice around.. she sings ALL the notes!). This gal is a force of nature! Her closing concert aria 'Io ti lascio' is a study in legato singing, too. And regardless of the libretto (Pensa che a te non lice il ricordarsi di me), this is one singer you'd find very hard to not remember.

The orchestra is conducted superbly by Sir Colin Davis. The pace always seem just right and he is just as attentive to the musical nuances as his mezzo is. A great team! I only wish she had included a few duets as well... in place of the 2 orchestral interludes from Idomeneo and La clemenza di Tito

One of the most exciting voices of our times.......1999-11-30

Vesselina Kasarova has one of the most exciting and expressive mezzo-soprano voices of our times. Particularly unparalleled are her excellent performances of Elvira, Idamante, and Vitellia on this disc (as is her version of the concert aria "Io ti lascio, o cara, addio".)! Only concerning the more lyrical arias on this recording (Dorabella, Cherubino, Zerlina) could I think of better alternatives (e.g. Angelika Kirchschlager, Cecilia Bartoli,- or Ruth Ziesak's angelic soprano).

One of the most exciting voices of our times.......1999-11-30

Average customer rating:

Glorious Moffo and Mozart
One of the Finest Available Mozart Recitals
A Glorious Mozart Recital
Primo Moffo
Anna Moffo's "Mozart Arias"

Mozart: Arias

Manufacturer: Testament UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Arias
Opera Arias [Hybrid SACD]
La Bohème
Puccini: Madama Butterfly / Leinsdorf, Moffo, Valletti, Elias
Verdi: La Traviata

ASIN: B00004T00W
Release Date: 2000-07-11

Amazon.com

The American lyric soprano Anna Moffo, who retired in the mid-'70s (and is still very much alive), was a beautiful woman, a good actress, and an intelligent, sensitive singer, and she possessed natural charm. The voice was a pure lyric, with a succulent bloom at the top, good coloratura ability (she was a successful Lucia and Gilda), and a sometimes useful upper extension. Moffo was a fine communicator as well--all of which is evident on this CD, which was recorded in her early prime (in 1958). The Figaro excerpts show her as a boyish, impetuous Cherubino and a telling, in-control-and-sensuous Susanna, while Despina's two arias from Cosi give us something a bit sassier--just as it should be. Moffo's "Ach ich liebte" from Abduction is acrobatically valid as well as poised. Zerlina's arias vary between coy and knowing--again just the right combination. "Ach ich fühls" starts out a bit flat; Moffo and her unworthy (throughout) conductor Alceo Galliera indulge in some simply wrong rubato, but the last third of the aria, with its melting, high pianissimi, is a knockout. The aria from Il re pastore is beautifully sung--trills and all--and so is the concert aria "Misera, dove son?" The two soprano solos from Mozart's Great Mass (K. 427) find Moffo stretching for the low notes, albeit never unattractively, but they, and the "Alleluia" from "Exsultate, jubilate" are suitably virtuosic. This CD is a real pleasure. Highly recommended. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Glorious Moffo and Mozart.......2007-03-28

Ahhhhh....that's what one will say after hearing the fabulous Anna Moffo with her rosy voice and elegant phrasing lend her talent to Mozart's beloved arias. Mozart himself would probably have agreed. So many standout songs here including "misera, dove son", "non so piu", "vedrai carino", "l'amero saro costante", "aich ich fuhls", etc. Moffo singing arias from "Le Nozze di Figaro" as Cherubino are very enjoyable too.
Moffo was one of the few sopranos who could successfully sing diverse compositions from Verdi, Mozart, Schubert, etc. Kathleen Battle is another wonderful singer following in Moffo's footsteps. Also listen to "Kathleen Battle Sings Mozart" conducted by Andre Previn with Royal Philharmonic. For Mozart, these two divas cannot be surpassed.

One of the Finest Available Mozart Recitals.......2003-11-22

Anna Moffo was outstanding in a wide variety of music, but her warm, radiant, and flexible lyric soprano was particularly well-suited to Mozart. This collection, recorded in 1958, is exceptional; with Cecilia Bartoli's "Mozart Portraits" and Renee Fleming's all-Mozart disc, it is one of the finest available recitals of Mozart's soprano/mezzo-soprano arias. Moffo's is my favorite rendition of Pamina's "Ach, ich fuhls" from DIE ZAUBERFLOETE. Her ability to maintain a smooth legato (even at Galliera's slow tempo) and to "color" her tone to suggest the pallor of death is amazing (just listen to the final phrase, "So wird ruhe im Tode sein" -- "I must find my peace in death"). I love Moffo's Mozart so much that I plan to acquire the recording of LE NOZZE DI FIGARO in which she sings the role of Susanna. Judging from the rendition of Susanna's "Deh vieni, non tardar" heard here, it should be quite a lovely performance.

A Glorious Mozart Recital.......2002-02-11

This is definitely one of the best Mozart aria albums to date. Moffo's Ach, ich fühls is superb. Her Ach, ich liebte is one of the best performances of this aria, and her Et in carnatus est from the Great Mass is transcendant.

Primo Moffo.......2000-08-04

This is wonderful singing. Like all of my favorite Mozart singers, she maintains clarity of line, intonation and rhythm, sustaining drop-dead beautiful tone throughout. Her coloratura on Exaltate Jubilate is crystal clear. This is a thoughful compilation as well, including arias that the Angel CD left out. The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is the conducting of Alceo Galliera--in general lacking rhythmic momentum and clarity. Too bad she didn't partner with Giulini on this one since they achieved such stunning results in Le Nozze di Figaro.

Anna Moffo's "Mozart Arias".......2000-07-23

I have waited over 30 years for this CD and I am not disappointed in it. Moffo is magnificent!

Thank you, Testament, for the bonus tracks!

Tracks:

Le nozze di Figaro: Act I - Aria: 'Non so piu'
Le nozze di Figaro: Act II - Aria: 'Voi che sapete'
Le nozze di Figaro: Concert aria, K82: 'Chi sa, chi sa, qual sa'
Cosi fan tutte: Act II - Aria: 'E' amore un ladroncello'
Cosi fan tutte: Concert aria, K578: 'Alma grande e nobil core'
Don Giovanni: Act II - Aria: 'Vendrai, carino'
Le nozze di Figaro: Act IV - Recitativo & Aria: 'Giunse alfin il momento... Deh vieni'
La Clemenza di Tito: Act I - Aria: 'Parto, parto'
La Clemenza di Tito: Act II - Aria: 'Deh, per questo'
La Clemenza di Tito: Act II - Recitativo & Aria: 'Ecco il punto, o Vitellia... Non piu di fiori'
La Clemenza di Tito: Concert aria, K505: 'Ch'io miscordi di te?'

Customer Reviews:

Great Mozart, uniformly good Bartoli.......2006-06-19

'Mozart Arias' by mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli is uniformly as good as virtually all her other albums I have heard and reviewed. The problem is that this leaves me nothing on which to recommend this album over all the other Bartoli albums, except for the fact that it is MOZART, and that is certainly something.

So, from the point of view of the relatively naive listener to classical music, who happens to have listened to a lot of albums of this sort, I say, very nice, very nice, but not really great.

Rich full bodied delivery of superb selections of Mozart's art.......2006-03-08

The rich full voice of Cecilia Bartoli really shines in these selections. I suspect that her native language of Italian is a contributing factor to the totally natural sound of her lyrics and voice. Bartoli has a dramatic flair that emerges in her delivery that seems perfect for the selections. The recordings are consistently beautiful. Bartoli is a mezzo-soprano with incredible range. Her warm voice is so welcome.

Beautiful Bartoli.......2001-10-29

This is some absolutely beautiful music by Mozart, sung wonderfully by Cecilia Bartoli. I especially love the two arias that have the obbligato for basset clarinet or basset-horn from the opera "La clemenza di Tito" K621. Mozart had already written the great Clarinet Quintet K581 for Anton Stadler, who had invented the bassett clarinet, with an extended lower range and warmer tone than the conventional clarinet. These are played very nicely by Peter Schmidl on this CD. But the highlight of this disc is the taxing Concert aria K505, with the added delight of an obbligato piano part, played with feeling by Andras Schiff. It is the best of both worlds: combining Mozart's exquisite piano writing, with orchestra, and his penning of heavenly vocal lines. Cecilia Bartoli delivers on all counts. This is an absolute MUST for all serious Mozart collectors.

Pipes.......2001-06-13

A collection of technically superb if somewhat passionless performances of Mozart's finest arias by one of the great voices of our time. The mastering is a bit low, so I find myself turning the volume wayyyyyy up to hear Bartoli's more delicate moments.

Stylish, definitive Mozart.......2000-09-12

At a time when most mezzo-sopranos are doing local repertory and hoping for auditions, Cecilia Bartoli, not yet 25, recorded this album. This is a work which would proudly be referred to as the crowning achievement of many an illustrious career but, in this case, was simply a portent of things to come from the vocalist who may be the best Mozart soprano of our lifetimes. To hear Cecilia sing PUPILE AMATE alone justifies any expense. Her duets with Edita Gruberova are especially entrancing and make me wish I had been able to attend their performance live. Make no mistake, this is as fine a performance as anyone of us is likely to hear...even with Bartoli's other great works out there. Erato's MOZART ARIAS is a MUST!

Frederica von Stade Sings Mozart & Rossini Arias [Hybrid SACD]

Average customer rating:

Wonderful, But ...

Frederica von Stade Sings Mozart & Rossini Arias [Hybrid SACD]

Manufacturer: Pentatone
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

A Protrait of Frederica von Stade
Frederica von Stade sings Dorumsgaard, Mahler, Ives, Poulenc and others
Frederica von Stade - French Opera Arias
Puccini: Tosca [Hybrid SACD]
Rossini - La Cenerentola / Frederica von Stade, Francisco Araiza, Paolo Montarsolo, Claudio Desderi, Laura Zannini, Claudio Abbado

ASIN: B0009KBMMQ
Release Date: 2005-08-16

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful, But ..........2005-08-20

This hybrid SA-CD derives from a recording made by Philips in 1975. At that time quadraphonic recordings were supposed to be the coming thing, and Philips made many recordings in four-channel sound, but the actual sound issuing from phonograph records at that time simply couldn't accommodate what was actually contained on the master tapes. Back then these performances were released in two-channel sound, but recently a group of former Philips audio types have now formed a new company, PentaTone Classics, which is in the process of releasing in SA-CD multichannel (actually four, rather than the possible five, channels) stereo, allowing us to hear the original sound as it was intended.

Frederica von Stade was thirty when she recorded these Mozart and Rossini arias and the sound of her voice is simply lovely. I've always adored her sound even when I was aware that her technique, particularly in coloratura, was a little deficient. Her 'Una voce poco fa,' for instance, is beautiful sounding but doesn't have the kind of vocal fireworks we've come to expect from coloratura mezzos who have come on the scene since the 1970s. Still, her silvery, 'smile in the voice' sound is endearing here and elsewhere in these arias. She does better in the slower, more lyrical passages. Her pearlescent pianissimo must be heard to be appreciated. 'Nacqui all'affanno' from Rossini's 'Cenerentola' is delicious even with its sometimes approximate fioriture. The recorded sound itself is exemplary. One can hear clearly the orchestra (the Rotterdam Philharmonic under Edo de Waart) behind and below her. At times, though, her voice almost disappears into the orchestral sound mass. This happens, for instance, in the soft beginning of Desdemona's 'Willow Song' ('Assisa a' piè d'un salice' from Rossini's 'Otello').

Almost no one in her era commanded pants roles quite the way von Stade did. Her slim figure and believable acting made her an adorable Cherubino, and I am completely satisfied with her 'Non sò piu' and 'Voi, che sapete.' I don't recall whether she ever sang Sexto in 'La clemenza di Tito' (or Vitellia, for that matter) but the two arias of those two characters are also quite satisfying for their acting with the voice. As for Zerlina's 'Vedrai, carino,' I've rarely heard it so well done.

So there are pluses and minuses in this issue, but the pluses outweigh the minuses and this CD makes for a mostly satisfying experience.

Scott Morrison

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Le nozze di Figaro / Don Giovanni / Così fan tutte / Die Zauberflöte - The Drottningholm Court Theatre Orchestra & Chorus / Arnold Östman

Average customer rating:

Refreshing and Surprising!
Some of the most thought-provoking recordings ever, combined with some of the most perfect performances I have ever heard.
Best ever!!

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Le nozze di Figaro / Don Giovanni / Così fan tutte / Die Zauberflöte - The Drottningholm Court Theatre Orchestra & Chorus / Arnold Östman
Barbara Bonney , Arleen Auger , and The Drottningholm Court Theatre Orchestra & Chorus
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1-9 (Fra)
Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen
Weber: Der Freischütz
Mozart Opera Glyndebourne Collection: Cosi fan Tutte, Don Giovanni, Le Nozze di Figaro, Die Entfuhhrung aus dem Serail, Idomeneo, Die Zauberflote (6 DVDs)
Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Tito Gobbi, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tullio Serafin

ASIN: B00006IU7V
Release Date: 2003-03-11

Album Details

These Pioneering Performances of Four of Mozart's Greatest and Most Popular Operas under the Direction of Arnold Östman were Recorded at Nacka Aula, Stockholm. They all Attracted Great Critical Acclaim at the Time of their Original Release and have Been a Part of Decca's Vast Opera Catalogue Ever Since. The Da Ponte Trilogy (One of the Greatest Librettist/Composer Collaborations in the Entire History of Music), Comprising Le Nozze Di Figaro, Don Giovanni and Così Fan Tutte, is Paired with One of Mozart's Last Operas, Dating from the Last Year of his Life, Die Zauberflöte. The Superb Casts Assembled for These Recordings Include Such Experienced Mozart Interpreters as Arleen Auger (Countess, Donna Anna), Barbara Bonney (Susanna, Zerlina, Pamina), Håkan Hagegård (Count, Don Giovanni, Speaker), Sumi Jo (Queen of the Night), Della Jones (Marcellina, Donna Elvira), Petteri Salomaa (Figaro), Kurt Streit (Tamino), Lillian Watson (Papagena), Gösta Winbergh (Ferrando), Rachel Yakar (Fiordilig

Customer Reviews:

Refreshing and Surprising!.......2006-11-24

I would strongly recommend this collection to anyone who is seeking a new approach and sound world for these Mozart operas. Ostman opts for brisk tempi and transparent textures, but hardly ever at the expense of characterization or expressivity. The singers respond to the challenge with performances that bristle with excitement and fun. The cast blends with the orchestra like a chamber music ensemble, inspiring the listener to experience the opera as a conversation between the text and the intimations expressed in Mozart's musically and psychologically penetrating orchestration. Occasionally one may miss the lyric line and warmth associated with such great Mozart conductors as Bruno Walter or Karl Bohm; but the brio, virtousity, and brilliant insights of Ostman compensate with different kinds of rewards. Also, there is an intimate atmosphere in these recordings that is most faithful to the ethos and meaning of the libretti themselves. After listening to this period approach, my understanding of Mozart has changed radically, and I continue to relish the challenge that these performances have given to my interpretative sensibilities.

Some of the most thought-provoking recordings ever, combined with some of the most perfect performances I have ever heard........2005-09-14

First of all, I must state first that I was ANXIOUS to write this rave review. Ever since I got these cd's and realized the treause that is to be found in these recordings I just couldn't wait until I'd had the chance to tell everybody else about it... I honestly believe these recordings should be heard by anybody who is interested in this repertoire and music in general, since this are also some of the most perfect pieces of music in the repertoire.

As for the music itself, I am not going to write about. I think it is enough to read my last sentence to realize exactly what I think about it - and it is really just a must. That's composition taken to the highest possible level.

What I do want to write is about the performances.
Arnold Ostman, not the most known figure in the musical world, (not even amongst musicians- I come from Juilliard, and that name is definitely not one everybody knows) has created in the 80's in Mozart the equivalent of what Harnoncourt and Gardiner have done in Bach performance practice, i.e. has totally changed the conecption which was assimilated into everybody's mind regarding notions about how music of that era should sound like.

Trying to create a performance experience which emulates Mozart's period performance practice he changed everything starting from tempos, through ornamentation and of course- the voices themselves.

For us, most people indoctrinated by the post-romantisicm eastablished especially by Herbert von Karajan and the ilks of him, the first initial response will be a shock. The almost imperceptible swift tempos, the small voices etc. are sure to knock over anybody who haven't heard these recordings before. It might create an intial negative response but hang-on there, as the result is so much more gratifying then of hearing a recording of Karajan, Giulini, Furtwangler or any GREAT other conductor from that era- They were obviously incredible musical figures, but in terms of style and total perception of the piece it just doesn't work on the same level, in Mozart of course. (You'd still want to keep your Furtwangler's ninth copy...)

What is so great about Ostman is the freshness of mind with which he walks into every piece. Just like a real iconoclast
it seems as if he has landed from an entire different planet, and is just coming to conduct these pieces and give their debut. I can't give a more sincere and true compliment than that, musically speaking.

The results are the most fresh interpretations up to date of Mozart most important operas which also derive from some of the best vocal performances I have ever heard.
Under Ostman's direction it seems as though all the singers bloom and give their most musical and inspired performances,
holding on under the swiftest tempos in an admirable way. There is no point in pointing out names because it is as in a rule that the performances are just stellar one by one, even though not carrying around sometimes the most famous names.

This is not to say that all of the recordings in this set are equally perfect, and that I agree to all of the interprations and the insights given by Ostman, but you can't disregard the feeling that he knew EXACTLY what he wanted and executed it almost flawlessly. (the one exception might be small part of Cosi, mainly the overture, which was recorded very early in the stages of period instruments playing- therefore not always as perfect as you would have liked to hear it, but the performance as a whole is still the most beautiful Cosi I know.)

As for the packaging itself: The price is a complete steal, (incredible especially if you order it through other sellers, got mine for about 40$). What you DON'T get are the librettos, so you'd HAVE to get them from a different source. Either a different recording you might have, (you just might want one of the standard reference recordings one usually hears about like Giulini's) or you could just buy the librettos through Amazon, would still cost you very little.

Should not be missed by any terms by anybody who cares for music.

Ran

Best ever!!.......2004-01-12

Ostman created a stir when he made these recordings in the 1980s. And now it available in a collectors' edition box. I'm so excited. Sumi Jo's Queen of the Night here is even better than her recording for Solti. Ostman's Don Giovanni is the fastest I've ever heard, not to mention the most exciting. This Cosi Fan Tutte is Gramophone's reference Cosi. And this Figaro has many "alternative" arias that other recordings never bother with. Don't worry, the alternative is at the back so you can program it out. In fact, this is the only set of Mozart operas with ALL the alternative arias available. Even Gardiner does not have some of these. So this is a supreme set of importance.

Tracks:

Le Nozze Di Figaro: No. 11 Cavatina (Atto II): 'Porgi, amor, qualche ristoro' (Countess)
Die Entfuhrung aus dem Serail: No. 12 Arie (Akt II): 'Welche Wonne, welche Lust'
Die Entfuhrung aus dem Serail: No. 10 Rezitativ und Arie (Ask II): 'Welcher Kummer herrscht in meiner Seele'...'Traurigkeit ward mir zum Lose'
Zaide: No. 3 Arie (Akt I): 'Ruhe sanft, mein holdes Leben'
Cosi fan tutte: No. 19 Aria (Atto II): 'Una donna a quindici anni'
La clemenza di Tito: No. 21 Aria (Atto II): 'S'altro che lacrime'
Le Nozze Di Figaro: No. 28 Reicitativo ed Aria (Atto IV): 'Giunse alfin il momento'...'Deh vieni, non tardar, o giogia bella'
Don Giovanni: No. 12 Aria (Atto I): 'Batti, batti, o bel Masetto
Don Giovanni: No. 18 Aria (Atto II): 'Vedrai, carino'
Die Entfuhrung Aus Dem Serail: No. 6 Arie (Akt I): 'Ach ich liebte'
Le Nozze Di Figaro: No. 6 Aria (Atto I): 'Non so piu cosa son, cosa faccio'
Die Zauberflote: No. 17 Arie (Akt II): 'Ach, ich fuhl's, es ist verschwunden'
Die Zauberflote: No. 21 Finale (Akt II): 'Bald prangt, den Morgen zu verkunden'...'Du also bist mein Brautigam?'

Customer Reviews:

Kathleen Battle Sings Mozart.......2007-04-05

This is my favorite CD of Ms. Battle. She is extremely expressive and the arias are beautifully sung.

Blown Away.......2006-02-11

I just love playing this CD. Especially the Zaide track. Kathleen Battle truly has a magnificent voice. It shines on this CD. I would just love to hear this in concert. WOW. Blown away.

Not ideal, but still a fine recording.......2006-02-07

My title says it all regarding this CD. Battle has always been one of my favourite singers and I have enjoyed this CD. She shines in most of the selections and takes a risk with a few, with fine overall results.

strange.......2002-02-19

Ms Battle has a wondeful voice and a exquesite tecnique, but when she opens her mouth it sounds like she is losing somehitng: the feeling of music.

Much more than a fine effort.......2002-02-16

I disagree with "A Fine Effort, but..." Listening to Kathleen Battle has taught me to enjoy opera. This was the first opera CD I purchased, and I have used it to introduce several other friends to fine opera music. My friends and I all used to think that female opera singers were these large, Valkyrie-style women whose voices would rattle the floorboards as well as your eardrums. But Ms. Battle can hit those high notes with the grace of a songbird, and just as I pause to listen to the birds outside in the trees, I pause to listen and admire her voice everytime I listen to this CD. It's terrific, and I own several other of her CDs (Handel: Arias is a good one).

Latin Music:

Latin Music

latin music

Recommended Music:

Hit Mix 2002 [Import]

Mozart: String Quartets KV 458 & KV 465

Out of Sight [CD-single] [Enhanced] [Import]

O Analista De Perto De Bage [Import]

Moravian Folk Poetry in Songs

Rancid

Mariachi

Remixes 1 [CD-single] [Import]

Detroit Blues

Spike's Choice, Vol. 1: Desco Funk 45 Collectio