Search - Vincenzo Bellini, Paolo Olmi, Katia Ricciarelli :: Bellini - Zaira / Ricciarelli · Alaimo · Vargas · Papadjakou · Silbano · de Candia · Loni · Teatro Massimo · Olmi

Nice performance, all things considered

Ravyn Mohlmann | Alexandria VA | 07/04/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"To judge this CD properly you must remember it's a live performance. I grade live differently from studio. From a studio recording I expect perfection. From live, what would I have thought had I been there. The sound is quite decent over all, and the audience well behaved as these things go, so don't let the live aspect scare you off.



Ricciarelli definitely took a good chunk of the first act to warm up and get her voice moving as it should. Indeed there were some intonation problems, but they weren't hideous. Once she was warmed up the effect was marvelous. Her runs were clean and very precise, her phrasing smoothed out and the singing over all was excellent. Vargas was a joy through out. He'd obviously spent some time back stage vocalizing before going on since he hit the stage running. His voice is limber and the tone even through out his registers. The chorus was decent if not particularly outstanding.



This opera is a definite must have for any Bellini aficionado. This recording present a chance to experience it that's not only worthwhile, but rewarding."