Search - Giuseppe Verdi, Lamberto Gardelli, New Philharmonia Orchestra :: Verdi: I Masnadieri

Exceptional Singing!

Armindo | Greece | 08/06/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Masnadieri has some of the most beautiful Verdi duets, arias and cabalettas. I can't understand why it's so rarely performed. On this set you might not experience extreme dramatic performances (especially by Caballe-Bergonzi) but the singing really doesn't get any better than this. Firstly the true diva, the beloved Montserrat gives one of her vocally most ravishing performances. The coloratura is perfect, effortless high powerful notes and her trademark, unbelievable pianissimo. You really can't find such a soprano today! Her dramatic outbreaks are few but sincere and heartfelt. She is here accompanied by the sublime Carlo Bergonzi, a verdian expert. His beautiful, stylish singing is ideal for the role. I'm thinking: did perhaps Verdi himself coach this tenor? How does he do it?!!! This is one of the few recordings we have him with Caballe and it's a must (I find them similar artists: beautiful lyrical sound, perfect legato etc). You also get to hear two other wonderful artists: Cappuccilli and Raimondi who capture both drama and music. I especially admire Cappuccilli. Maestro Gardelli conducts this dream cast and completes this supreme recording of a less popular but thrilling Verdi opera."