Search - Meyerbeer, Vinco, Ciofi :: Crusader in Egypt

A Fine Recording of a Rare Opera at a Reasonable Price!

Rev. Ben Cox | Orlando, Florida | 06/22/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am enjoying this recording as I write. I was attracted to this opera because of Michael Maniaci, the male lead. He is, as I expected, glorious! With this opera we get a glimpse into the culture of the early 19th century in Italy. This was Meyerbeer's last castrato opera. The other voices to my ear are not quite the level of Maniaci, but that could be a bias. The orchestra plays the music very well and Meyerbeer serves up some beautiful music. The recording, live in La Fenice, is very clear and the stereo separation is quite good. The audience is unobtrusive, simply applauding where appropriate. As is typical of Meyerbeer, you get lots of big scenes, with the chorus and principals, sometimes reminiscent of scenes in Les Hugenots. I am thoroughly enjoying this recording and wish it well with listeners and reviewers. As a recap, the cast (especially Maniaci)are quite good and up to the requirements of the music; the recording is also very good, giving the listener a chance to hear the remarkable acoustics of La Fenice. This is a very good recording to own, with one other attraction: the price!"