Search - Grace Bumbry, Mirella Freni, Jon Vickers :: Carmen

Eventhough Opinions May Vary, This Is The Best Carmen

Carlos Avila | Hollywood | 08/31/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"It could be a delusion of mine, it may be a fact. Bizet's opera Carmen is the most popular opera in the world, and because of its tradition, numerous interpretations claim to be the best. But this recording, made stylishly in the form of a audio book, beats all the rest. The recording for the Black Dog Opera Library employs the talents of Grace Bumbry, Jon Vickers, Mirella Freni. Kostas Paskalis and Rafael Burgos conducting a Spanish orchestra. Everything about this Carmen is superb- the Habanera, Seguidilla and Gypsy Songs (each sung perfectly by Bumbry), the Toreador Song, The Flower Song, the choruses and the dramatic finale. With illustrated pictures of 19th century "Carmens", information on Bizet and the full libretto, this makes opera easy to enjoy and love. I highly recommend this as a gift for any opera lover or novice. I'm frankly suprised no one has reviewed it. I hope this review reaches the ears of those who seek the perfect recording of Carmen. Well, look no further."

Another superb product

Rod Peet, Jr. | Pennsylvania, USA | 01/07/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is the third Black Dog Opera I have purchased. I am fairly new to opera and find this format has allowed me to educate myself and achieve a deep appreciation for opera. This paticular recording is well done and except in a couple of minor instances the libretto is easy to follow (at least to MY untrained ear)."