Search - Claudio Monteverdi, Girolamo Frescobaldi, Italian Anonymous :: Monteverdi: Scherzi Musicali

Extremely fine singing, well-recorded.

T. Swensen | S.F. Bay Area | 12/01/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In the first track you know you are in for a treat with this disc.

Kiehr's soprano voice is just right for this repertoire: Appropriately

light yet full of color, with exquisite control and just the right

amount of vibrato (i.e. not too much, but enough to feel relaxed).

You will smile when listening to this disc.



Bass-baritone MacLeod is an ample match to Kiehr, and indeed the blend

between the two singers is ideal. The instrumental accompaniment is

sprightly and clean, but so well recorded that one does not sense any

unpleasant edge to the sound. Special mention must be made of the very

fine lute playing here, and it's luscious blend with Kiehr's enchanting

voice.



This is not earth-shaking music. It's just fun, beautiful, and extremely

well-performed and well-recorded. Heartily recommended."

Even his secular music is devine

J. Likeness | Paso Robles, CA United States | 08/07/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Monteverdi called these works "trifles" and indeed the word 'scherzi' translates as 'joke'. If these are jokes then they are written by a master comic and if they are trifles then they are confections of the most exquisite texture imagineable.



Trully there is nothing profound in this music--nor was there meant be. This is relaxed fun music written to be delightful as it is. Macleod and company understand and communicate that sense of fun in their performances. In places I believe one can hear both vocalists and ensemble smile with delight.



Overall a joy to hear."