Search - Rossini, Norrington, Orchestra of St. Luke's :: Bicentennial Birthday Gala

Very excellent, but missing half the concert

10/07/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the best recording (and I believe the only one on CD) of this event. It is a live performance, and even though that is the case, the sound is wonderful and true. The entire Gala was shown on PBS and it was wonderful. The interviews with Philip Gosset and Marilyn Horne during intermission were fabulous, as was the discussions with Narrington. However, this recording leaves out half the Gala. Some of the most beautiful numbers (a duet for soprano and Contralto from Selmira with only a harp and an oboe accompaning the voices) don't appear at all. The most exciting trio from Bianco et Faliero, which ended the first half of the Gala is not even represented. Not all the numbers contained in this recording are even complete. The Tenor solo from Selmira has an wonderfully exciting extended chorus for men that proceeds it, but all we have in this CD is the closing chords of that chorus. This CD is well worth the money, but I just forewarn anyone who actually saw the concert, you won't be getting half of it. Some day I wish the entire thing would be released, for it is filled with some super exciting music. Until that day should happen, this is the best we can expect, and it will not disappoint."