Search - Gioachino Rossini, Gianfranco Masini, London Symphony :: Rossini: Elisabetta

GRAND ROSSINI

Armindo | Greece | 05/20/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This opera has always been a favourite among prima donnas and madame Caballe certainly is one of them. What a pity this recording was made after her tumour operation when Caballe's golden voice acquired a rather unpleasant beat, particularly in the louder passages. I'm still very glad she recorded this of course and apart from the aforementioned shortcoming, she sounds ideal in this regal role. The quiet moments are as eloquent as ever and her portrait of Elisabetta is vibrant.



It's such a treat to have her with the young Carreras since their voices always sound so nice together. He's also challenged in some high passages by Rossini's writing which is normally associated with lighter voices. Carreras' thrust, phrasing and the simply stunning velvety voice of his certainly compensate for any strains. Benelli copes better with Rossini's demands but of course lacks the unique Carreras sound. Masterson also does a fine job and blends in well with Caballe in the Mira o Norma-like duet. There is also more familiar, Rossini-recycled music in this opera but you'll find that out yourself. Masini offers solid support and the sound quality is good.

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Caballe's perfection

Anthony C. Sirignano | Houston, TX USA | 09/26/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I owned this set on LP's and just bought it on cd's. The Gramaphone review by John Steane stated that Caballe's singing is of an order of bel canto that one is privileged to hear once in a lifetime. I couldn't agree more. Her final scene will astonish you for the melting perfection of her voice. It is wonderful to have the young and ardent Carreras complement her so well. The entire performance if first-rate."