Forza Del Destino (Vienna 1960)

On this CD:

1. La forza del destino, opera
Composed by Giuseppe Verdi
Performed by Vienna State Chorus and Orchestra with Ettore Bastianini, Franz Bierbach, Karl Donch, Hugo Meyer-Welfing, Harald Proglhoff, Giulietta Simionato, Giuseppe di Stefano, Antonietta Stella, Walter Kreppel, Anne-Marie Ludwig, Ludwig Welter
Conducted by Dimitri Mitropoulos

Tracks:

Carmen: L'Amour Est Un Oiseau Rebelle
Gianni Schicchi: O Mio Babbino Caro
La Wally: Ebben? Ne Andro Lontana
Samson Et Dalila: Mon Coeur S'ouvre A Ta Voix
Tosca: Vissi D'arte, Vissi D'amore
Andrea Chenier: La Mamma Morta
Le Nozze Di Figaro: Porgi Amor
Orphee Et Eurydice: J'ai Perdu Mon Eurydice
Aida: Ritorna Vincitor!
Adriana Lecouvreur: Respiro Appena... Lo So L'Umile Ancella
Madama Butterfly: Un Bel Di Vedremo
Norma: Casta Diva
Turandot: Signore, Ascolta!
Louise: Depuis Le Jour
La Boheme: Si. Mi Chiamano Mimi
La Gioconda: Suicidio
La Forza Del Destino: Pace, Pace Mio Dio!

Customer Reviews:

Audio beauty and magnificence, Maria Callas.......2007-03-31

There are moments on this recording that are virtually audio heaven.
Ms. Callas' voice goes beyond the normal concept of beauty.

sublime.......2007-02-14

she is an angel , a voice without parallel , a collection very interesting of arias from different masters.

Good "Best Of".......2007-02-09

Maira Callas was never a favorite of mine, but she is notable as a passionate, (but sometime shrill to my ears) performer. This collection is a good single record tribute to her operatic legacy.

The Very Best of Maria Callas.......2006-08-20

Second on my list for CDs that should be recommended for people who want to start on a long trail of Callas to the Carmen with Gedda and Prétre. This has perhaps the best excerpts of all time from Maria Callas. The 'Ritorna vincitor' and 'Una voce poco fa' are to be treasured. Any long-time Callas fan will find this CD of little to no interest, because anything they haven't heard before, there's a better, low-audio-quality version of somewhere. 4 stars for that reason.

Classic Callas.......2006-07-11

Countless assessments of Maria Callas' life and career, as well as re-issues of some of her definitive recorded performances have been fueled by the 25th anniversaary of her tragic and prophetic death alone in her Paris flat on September 16, 1977. One of those such discs, this 17 track retrospective compilation from the archives of EMI is among the best. Every character she portrays is bought to life by her incomparible ability both vocally and emotionally. Enjoy!

Average customer rating:

Opera for Aficianados as well as Newbies
superb!
beatiful music
Best Opera CD ever
Rapture

Rapture: Opera's Most Heavenly Moments

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Most Famous Opera Duets
The Most Famous Opera Arias
The #1 Opera Album
Amor--Opera's Great Love Songs
The Best Opera Album in the World...Ever!

ASIN: B00006L3K2
Release Date: 2002-10-08

Tracks:

Casta Diva - Renee Fleming
Barcarolle - Edita Gruberova
Ebben? Ne Andro Lontana - Maria Chiara
Intermezzo - Herbert Von Karajan
Letter Duet - Edith Mathis
Che Faro Senza Euridice - Grace Bumbry
Va Pensiero - Giuseppe Sinopoli
Una Furtiva Lagrima - Gosta Winbergh
Porgi Amor - Gundula Janowitz
Humming Chorus - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
Soave Sia Il Vento - Kiri Te Kanawa
Overture (Excerpt) - Philharmonia Orchestra
Un'aura Amorosa - Hans-Peter Blochwitz
Un Bel Di - Mirella Freni
Depuis Le Jour - Montserrat Caballe
La Ci Darem La Mano - Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
Quando Le Sere Al Placido - Placido Domingo
Mir Ist So Wunderbar - Lucia Popp

Tracks:

Flower Duet - Joan Sutherland
The Pearl Fishers Duet - Bryn Terfel
Lascia Ch'io Pianga - Kiri Te Kanawa
Prelude - Bayerisches Staatsorchestra
O Silver Moon - Renee Fleming
When I Am Laid In Earth - Tatiana Troyanos
Miserere - Placido Domingo
Vissi D'arte - Mirella Freni
Intermezzo - Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Softly Awakes My Heart - Grace Bumbry
Ombra Mai Fu (Largo) - Bryn Terfel
Pilgrim's Chorus - Chorus Of The Bayreuth Festival
Ruhe Sanft - Kiri Te Kanawa
Flower Duet - Teresa Berganza
Entr'acte - Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Mira O Norma - Marilyn Horne
Hochsten Heiles Wunder - Chorus Of The German Opera Berlin

Customer Reviews:

Opera for Aficianados as well as Newbies.......2007-06-11

If you are looking for peaceful, beautiful music this is for you. It is a delightful mix of some of opera's most memorable moments. Long time opera fans will be familiar with most of the arias and newcomers to opera will recognize music that has become identified with movies and commercials.

superb! .......2007-05-12

If you love wonderful operatic moments then this cd is a great buy for all of the wonderful and spectacular music on it. You get two cds for the price of one great opera cd, and all of the talented singers that were taken and put on these tracks do definate justice to all of the composers listed. A great cd to add to your collection especially if you are an aspiring singer or a student in music. Absolutely Fantastic!

beatiful music.......2007-02-23

former reviews are no exaggeration, this is the most beautiful music I have come across. I have many opera CDs but this is one I never tire of.
I listen to the CD everyday and it is always soothing, uplifting and inspiring. I wish I could find another as wonderful.

Best Opera CD ever.......2007-02-16

I have orderd plenty of classical CD's and DVD's on this webside.
Most were phantastish but this one is the best.
I listen so often to this CD that it should have grooves.
I never get tired of it.
I recommend this CD highly.
Roswitha

Rapture.......2007-01-24

Wonderous---Melodious----
This compilation of Opera's finest moments is positively wonderful!!!!Unquestionably the best buy I have made in Opera Music..No kidding,I have trays full of CDs covering every facet of Opera,but none as beautiful...A full 2 1/2 hours of the best of the best....Heavenly Moments says it ALL...I vote 6 stars!!!!!

Average customer rating:

masters of classical music
A good basic collection
An excellent introduction to classical music
Very Beautiful!!!!!1
Still Stuck on Beethoven

Masters of Classical Music (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

25 Classical Favorites
Classical Masterpieces of the Millennium [20 CD Set]
The Top 100 Masterpieces of Classical Music, Vol. 6-10
25 Romantic Classics
Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits

ASIN: B000001VU5
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Eine kleine Nachtmusik: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Piano Concerto In A Major, K 488: Adagio - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Flute Concerto In D Major, K 314: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Symphony No. 40 in G minor: Molto allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Clarinet Concerto KV 622: Adagio - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Serenade, K 375: Menuetto - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Turkish March - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Violin Concerto, K 216: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Divertimento, K 334: Menuetto - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Horn Concerto, K 447: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Cassation, K 99: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus

Tracks:

Overture No. 4 In Major: Rejouissance - J.S.Bach
Overture No. 3 In D Major: Air - J.S.Bach
Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 In F Major: I. Allegro - J.S.Bach
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - J.S.Bach
Overture No. 2 In B Minor: Menuet & Badinerie - J.S.Bach
Prelude In C Major - J.S.Bach
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor - J.S.Bach
Prelude In C Minor - J.S.Bach
Overture No. 1 In C Major: Passepied - J.S.Bach
Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 In F Major: II. Adagio - J.S.Bach
Kommst du nun, Jesu vom Himmel herunter, Chorale - J.S.Bach
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G Major: II. Allegro - J.S.Bach
Violin Concerto In E Major: I. Adagio - J.S.Bach
St. Matthew Passion: Finale Chorus: 'Wir setzen uns mit Tranen nieder' - J.S.Bach

Tracks:

Symphony No. 5: Allegro con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Fur Elise - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Violin Romance No. 2 - Ludwig Van Beethoven
'Moonlight' Sonata: Adagio sostenuto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Minuet - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 8 In F Major: Allegretto scherzando - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Coriolan: Overture - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Piano Concerto No. 2: Adagio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 5 In C Minor: Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Egmont: Overture - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Tracks:

Die Fledermaus: Die Fledermaus (Excerpts) - Johann Strauss
Wine, Woman And Song - Johann Strauss
Tritsch Tratsch Polka - Johann Strauss
The Blue Danube - Johann Strauss
The Gypsy Baron: Introduction - Johann Strauss
Annen Polka - Johann Strauss
Vienna Blood - Johann Strauss
The Gypsy Baron: Einzugsmarsch - Johann Strauss

Tracks:

Tannhauser: Overture - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: Dance Of The Prentices - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: Prelude Act 3 - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: Aufzug der Meistersinger - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Der fliegende Hollander: Overture - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Lohengrin: Prelude - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Tristan und Isolde: Prelude And Liebestod - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Tannhauser: Arrival Of The Guests At Wartburg - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1: Allegro non troppo - Peter Tchaikovsky
String Serenade: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Violin Concerto: Andante - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Introduction - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Pas d'action - Adagio - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Capriccio italien Op. 45 - Peter Tchaikovsky
Swan Lake: Ballet Suite: Scene No. 10 - Peter Tchaikovsky
Swan Lake: Ballet Suite: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Eugene Onegin: Polonaise - Peter Tchaikovsky

Tracks:

The 4 Seasons: Concerto No. 1 In E Major: Spring - VIVALDI, Antonio
Siciliano - VIVALDI, Antonio
Concerto In D Minor:: (Allegro Assai) Cologne Concerto - VIVALDI, Antonio
The 4 Seasons: Concerto No. 2 In G Minor: Summer - VIVALDI, Antonio
Oboe Sonata In B Flat Major, RV 34: Adagio - Allegro - Largo - Allegro - VIVALDI, Antonio
The 4 Seasons: Concerto No. 3 In F Major: Autumn - VIVALDI, Antonio
Oboe Concerto: Allegro non tasto - Largo - Allegro non molto - VIVALDI, Antonio
Concerto In D Minor: (Largo e spiccato) Cologne Concerto - VIVALDI, Antonio
The 4 Seasons: Concerto No. 4 In F Minor: Winter - VIVALDI, Antonio

Tracks:

Scherzo No 1 In B Minor, Op. 20 - Frederic Chopin_
Three Nocturnes, Op. 9: No 3 In B Major - Frederic Chopin_
Twelve Etudes, Op. 10: No 5 In G Flat Major - Frederic Chopin_
Twelve Etudes, Op. 25: No 10 In B Minor - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 13 In F Sharp Major - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 14 In E Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 15 In D Flat Major 'Raindrops' - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 16 In B Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 17 In A Flat Major - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 18 In F Minor - Frederic Chopin_
Scherzo No. 2 In B Flat Minor, Op. 31 - Frederic Chopin_
Waltz In E Flat Major, Op. 18 - Frederic Chopin_
Nocturne In C Sharp Minor, Op. Posth. - Frederic Chopin_
Four Mazurkas, Op. 24: No. 3 In A Flat Major - Frederic Chopin_
Four Mazurkas, Op. 24: No. 4 In B Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin_

Tracks:

Ave Maria - Franz Schubert
Impromptu In E Flat Major - Franz Schubert
Standchen - Franz Schubert
Trout Quintet: Tema con variazioni - Franz Schubert
'Rosamunde': Entr'acte No. 1 - Franz Schubert
Moment Musical In A Flat Major - Franz Schubert
'Rosamunde': Entr'acte No. 2 - Franz Schubert
Moment Musical No. 3 In F Minor - Franz Schubert
'Rosamunde': Ballet Music No.2 - Franz Schubert
Symphony No. 8 In B Minor 'Unfinished': Allegro moderato - Franz Schubert

Tracks:

Nabucco: Overture - Verdi, Giuseppe
Nabucco: Va pensiero, sull'ali dorate - Verdi, Giuseppe
Aida: Prelude - Verdi, Giuseppe
II Trovatore: Verdi! le fosche notturne (Gypsies' Chorus) - Verdi, Giuseppe
II Trovatore: Or co' daddi, ma fra poco (Soldiers' Chorus) - Verdi, Giuseppe
Aroldo: Overture - Verdi, Giuseppe
La Traviata: Prelude - Verdi, Giuseppe
La Traviata: Noi siamo zingarelle - Verdi, Giuseppe
La Traviata:: Libiamo ne' lieti calici - Verdi, Giuseppe
La Traviata: Di Madride noi siam mattadori - Verdi, Giuseppe
La forza del destino: Overture - Verdi, Giuseppe

Customer Reviews:

masters of classical music.......2007-03-26

A nice collection for the classical listener. Great variety of composers and the music quality of the cds are very good.

A good basic collection.......2006-11-10

With selections from numerous composers, it is an easy way to familiarize oneself with some of the most popular classical works and excerpts. A pleasant listen for the initiated too.

An excellent introduction to classical music.......2006-10-18

This is an excellent introduction to classical music. Well performed and presented.

Very Beautiful!!!!!1.......2006-10-05

If you are a fan of classical music then you better get this set. Not only is it very cheap, 10 Discs for about 2$ per disk. Now where are you gonna find a deal like this. I actually found mine chaper, $20.00 even and the music is outstanding. If you had a very bad day and very stressed out, just put in one of these cds, lay down, dim down the lights and just relax. It really helped me out.

Still Stuck on Beethoven.......2006-08-22

I just recently started listening to classical music so I'm certainly not one to compare or critique the quality of this set. However, I do have a few comments...

My interest started in this genre of music because I'm researching my ancestry in Prussia and this is the music of those times. Never mind my ancestors were poor peasants who probably never got the chance to hear such wonderful music... when listening to these CDs, I'm taken back in time... to a royal court in Europe... to another place in time. The music is inspiring, relaxing, invigorating.

I have yet to listen to all the CD's in the set. I'm stuck on Beethoven! Wasn't he AWESOME!?!

I think this set is a wonderful introduction to classical music!!!!!

The Legendary Enrico Caruso: 21 Favorite Arias

Average customer rating:

Great to hear the Great Tenor
A childhood memory
Great collection.

The Legendary Enrico Caruso: 21 Favorite Arias

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Match Point
Italian Songs: The Digital Recordings
The Very Best of Beniamino Gigli
Great Caruso
The Very Best Of Maria Callas

ASIN: B000003EOH
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Pagliacci: Vesti la giubba
TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle
Rigoletto: Questa o quella
Rigoletto: La donna e mobile
L'africana: O paradiso
La Juive: Rachel, quand du Seigneur
La Boheme: Che gelida manina
Aida: Se quel guerrier io fossi; Celeste Aida
Andrea Chenier: Come un bel di di maggio
La Favorita: Romanza: Spirto gentil, ne' sogni miei
La forza del destino: O tu che in seno agli angeli
Otello: Ora e per sempre addio
Les pecheurs de perles: Je crois entendre encore
La Gioconda: Cielo e mar!
Carmen: La fleur que tu m'avais jetee (Flower Song)
TOSCA: Recondita armonia
Faust: Salut, demeure chaste et pure
L'Elisir d'Amore: Una furtiva lagrima
Martha: M'appari tutt'amor
Serse: Ombra mai fu (Largo)
Il Trovatore: Di quella pira

Amazon.com

There's a plethora of single-disc Caruso collections, but this one's the preferred choice for opera fans who treasure this golden- voiced epitome of Golden Age singing. It's a Greatest Hits collection to beat all Greatest Hits collections. Selections span Caruso's career, from the lyric effusions of 1906-7 to the darker-voiced later recordings, including one of his last records, the 1920 La Juive aria, "Rachel, quand du Seigneur," which he invests with a heartbreaking poignancy that hasn't been bettered. Caruso shines brightest in the Italian repertory, capturing the pathos of Vesti la Giubba, the insouciance of the Duke's Rigoletto arias, and the hero's dilemma in Celeste Aida, among much else. But everything here is wonderful--great music, great singing. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Great to hear the Great Tenor.......2007-04-11

I am impressed how well these almost 100 year old recordings have been transfered to CD. Of course they aren't perfect but considering their age it is still a miracle. It is nice to hear Caruso in his prime and not on a scratchy vinyl. I would recommend this to any lover of Caruso's singing.

A childhood memory.......2006-05-28

I do not really know Opera. I am writing this review because I remember hearing Caruso's voice coming from a seventy- eight on an old Victor gramophone in my paternal grandparents house. The power and lyric quality of the voice struck me so strongly especially in 'Pagliacci'. The phrase has been with me, and comes back occasionally through all the years.
Caruso was then, and I believe still is considered at the very top of operatic singers. And it is a remarkable experience to hear so many years later , and in a stronger and clearer way sounds which one heard long ago in childhood, and have for years only lived in the mind.

Great collection........2000-11-04

This CD is an older RCA release, but still one of the best! A great introduction to Caruso.

Artists Of The Century - Jussi Bjorling, The Ultimate Collection

Average customer rating:

Excellent older music
A Golden Voice!
Heaven
The Ultimate Tenor Anthology
The biggest hype I've ever seen or heard

Artists Of The Century - Jussi Bjorling, The Ultimate Collection

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Jussi Björling Rediscovered
The "Pearl Fishers" Duet
The Very Best of Beniamino Gigli
The Very Best of Franco Corelli
Jussi Bjorling: Opera Arias

ASIN: B00000J911
Release Date: 1999-05-25

Tracks:

Aida: Se quel guerriero io fossi; Celete Aida
Manon Lescaut - Donna non vida mai
Rigoletto - La Donna ? mobile
Rigoletto - Ella mi fu rapita; Parmi veder le lagrime
Cavalleria Rusticana - Siciliana: O Lola - Frederick Schauwecker
Faust - Salut, demeure chaste et pure - Robert Merrill
Pagliacci - Vesti la guibba
La Boh?me - Che gelida manini - Licia Albanese
Prince Igor - Vladimir's Recitative and Cavatina
Andrea Cher - Come un bel di di maggio
Martha - M'apparutt'amor
L'elisir d'amore - Una furtiva lagrima
Eugene Onegin - F, f (Lensky's aria)
Turandot - Nessun Dorma
Tosca - Recondita armonia
Tosca - E lucevan le stelle
Tosca - O dolci mani
The Trout (Die Forelle)
An Silvia: Was ist Silvia?
Stchen D. 957/4

Tracks:

The Pearl Fishers - Au fond du temple saint
Tosca - Mario, Mario, Mario!
Don Carlo - lo l'ho perduta!; Dio, che nell'alma infondere
Manon Lescaut - Oh, sar pila!; Tu, tu, amore? Tu?
La Boh - In un coup Mimtu pitorni
La Forza Del Destina - Solenne in quest'ora
Aida - La fatal pietra; O terra addio
Turandot - Signore, escaolta!; Non piangere, Li
Otello - Oh! monstruosa colpa!; Si, pel ciel marmorea giuro!
A Dream
Turandot - Nessun Dorma
Zeignung, Op 10, No. 1/Dedica

Amazon.com

Surely Björling was one of the greatest tenors of his or any other time, not only for the clarion ring, the purity, and the melting lyricism of his voice, but for his effortless lightness, impeccable intonation, endless breath control, and natural phrasing and line, enhanced by old-fashioned but wonderfully expressive scoops and slides. On this generous two-disc set, he is heard in a huge selection of arias and some duets with distinguished colleagues; most of them were recorded separately, and a few are excerpted from complete opera recordings--unfortunately not very skillfully, stopping abruptly in mid-phrase if not mid-note. No matter; the miraculous thing is that Björling, whether singing an entire role or a single aria, can instantly create a character and bring him to vibrant life. He sings everything in the original keys--his high B-flats, B's, and C's are thrilling--and almost everything in the original language, including a few songs by Schubert, Strauss, and Grieg. Recorded live in recital, they are delightful--only one is too operatic. Among his partners, soprano Zinka Milanov and baritone Robert Merrill stand out. This recording presents an incomparable artist at his incomparable best. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

Excellent older music.......2007-04-05

He is obviously one of the best of his time and puts to shame some of the newer singers. You get alot for your money on this CD too. I highly recommend it for a Sunday morning to enjoy your coffee, newspaper, and scones :}

A Golden Voice!.......2006-07-31

In opera circles everyone knows about Jussi Bjorling. But, I am writing this for the many people who never heard of him. He died in 1960 at the age of 49 so he hasn't been around for 46 years. Thus, the younger generation have only heard of Pavarotti, Domingo, Correras and some newer fellows. Believe me, the sweet, honeyed, golden voice of Bjorling will impress you. His voice..his "instrument".....is...is....what can I say, it's "beautiful". If you haven't heard him before you have an enormous treat ahead of you! If you love the beautiful sound of a "trained" voice, you'll love this guy! Enjoy!
(Some guy below is comparing Bjorling to DeStefano and Corelli and some others and was critical of Bjorling. The guy who wrote that must be suffering from hearing loss! ALL the tenors he mentioned are/were great artists. DON'T BELIEVE HIM...BELIEVE ME! :o) Email:boland7214@aol.

Heaven.......2004-12-13

I used to buy two separate CDs for people I was introducing to Bjoerling - the Pearl Fishers one, and the one with the Nessun dorma on it... So I was delighted when this 2 CD set came out.

To me, NO other tenor I've ever heard matches Bjoerling. His voice is one of the few that reduce me to tears just trying to EXPLAIN it to people. I've loved classical music since childhood but was never able to get into opera until I heard Jussi ... all the tenors alive today - feh, sorry, but to me they just sound like guys taking deep breaths and singing loud, not like "the voice of God" ...

The Ultimate Tenor Anthology.......2003-10-26

For anyone who has for some reason fallen in love with some other tenor voice, the discovery of Jussi Bjoerlings voice may be heartbreaking. This is not a tenor who can only sing superbly in lyric opera or only in dramatic opera, or only in song and lieder. This singer can sing whatever he wants and more; he does it equally brilliant whatever to the vocal demands may be. That, more than anything makes him absolutely unique in the record history.
In the opening selection of this compilation; "Celeste Aida", this essentially lyric voice demonstrates for every heroic and dramatic tenor how to sing dramatic opera. It is a sheer singing lesson. In the strenuous recitative, he does not shout or use other non-musical effects, but shows that true dramatic expression is characterized by tonal intensiy and not by volume, although he had plenty enough of that. The beautiful and incredibly free flow of lyric tones in the Pearlfishers duet, the Faust cavatina and in the gorgeous "Che gelida manina" is absolutely exemplary. Yet, who could replicate the beauty of those effortless high C`s? I cannot think of anyone.
The only thing that could better this and give the set 5 stars in the book, is a compilation of the same selections, transferred from the original tapes and not excessively remastered as on this occasion. The sound is at times overly bright and the voice sounds thin and even sharp. But the singing is so far unmatched.

The biggest hype I've ever seen or heard.......2003-07-27

This tenor is a tiny patch if compare to Corelli or Del Monaco, not to even mention Pavarotti. His high notes are strain to the max and he sounds like he's singing in half falsetto.
A total disappointment. I recommend Gigli and Del Monaco instead.

Average customer rating:

Horrible Techno Muzak with Beautiful Singing
Not for the Opera purest...
Opera meets contemporary music for sophisticated listeners
buy this cd!
Incredible music from opera's master composers

Aria

Manufacturer: Koch Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Goth | Goth & Industrial | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | New Age | Styles | Music

Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Aria, Vol. 2: New Horizon
Aria 3: Metamorphosis
State of Grace
State of Grace II: Turning to Peace
Earthbound

ASIN: B0002IQGF8
Release Date: 2004-08-10

Tracks:

Willow
Un Bel Di
Secret Tear
Dido
Pace Pace
Pamina Blue
Habanera
Home

Customer Reviews:

Horrible Techno Muzak with Beautiful Singing.......2007-06-21

This is a Dr. Jeckal and Mr. Hyde CD. The singing is so incredibly beautiful but it's totally ruined with synthetic background "music". The drum machine parts are so bad it's like listening to a joke from Saturday Night Live.

Not for the Opera purest..........2007-05-19

A doctor buddy of mine and I were working the ER one weekend and he put this CD on. Now, I love just about any kind of music EXCEPT Opera and Country music depresses me after a few songs. Now, this CD sure smacked of opera but I was not offended. In fact, the longer I listened, the more I liked it. I didn't much care for the treatment of Bizet's "Carmen" but that was the only song I didn't care for just because I loved the original classical and just didn't like this arrangement. I guess I was primed for this sound through Yanni's "Aria" from his Dare to Dream CD. Thus the blending of contemporary instrumental music with an operatic voice or voices was born.

As for the disappointed opera fan/reviewer, this IS NOT opera and it was never intended to replace or even imitate true opera. Paul Schwartz was exposed to the opera, orchestral symphonies, rock music and dance clubs that were all within walking distance from his home as a young man. He simply took the sounds that appealed to him and put them together. Thus this, his first effort, leans heavily on traditional classical music that is familiar to a great number of people. I personally found his second release, "Aria, Vol. 2: New Horizon", to be much more enjoyable. "Aria 3: Metamorphosis" was released five years after "New Horrizon" and shows a more matured sound and is highly enjoyable. Paul embarked on another venture through the "State of Grace" series during those five years which I haven't heard, yet. I love listening to all three Cd's with #2 and #3 being my favorites of the three. So if you are an opera purest, Paul Schwartz's "Aria" compositions are NOT what you are looking for. But, if you're a New Age enthusiast with even a little appreciation for classical music, then you'll probably enjoy this CD along with his other works.

Opera meets contemporary music for sophisticated listeners.......2006-11-12

I listen to this CD over and over again. Traditional opera voices backed by modern instruments makes for distinct music that appeals to sophisticated adult ears. You don't need to be an opera fan to enjoy this beautiful, unique style of music. A true opera fan below was disappointed, but after buying Aria, I became interested in opera and added a couple of authentic aria CDs to my collection.

buy this cd!.......2006-10-08

When i first heard this CD i hated it. i had heard about it from several people and decided to buy it. i actually bought the box set that has all three Aria cd's. As i checked this cd out, the woman ringing me up said this was the most beautiful thing she'd ever heard and told me i'd love it. i told her i was more of a metal fan. Here i was, a fan of Metallica and Danzig and Tool, buying opera!? i did like the programming on this cd. the drum beats are clean and accompany the music just right; not too loud and not too quiet. the vocals, which at first i didn't like, are really endearing and beautiful. Rebecca Luker sings many of the songs here. i enjoyed this cd more and more with each listen. I like the fact that the lyrics were translated in the booklet so i could understand the words. Bottom line: this is an excellent CD! i would recommend this to anyone. give it a few listens and let it take you. Ignore what you think you know about opera and let his music enter you and enchant you and speak to you. your heart and soul will thank you. let the vocals of Rebecca Luker wash over you and show you the true emotional range of the human voice.

Incredible music from opera's master composers.......2006-03-04

If I could give this CD 10 stars, I would certainly do so. Five stars is not sufficient to describe this wonderful work of art. I am an opera fan but I am certainly not offended by these contemporary arrangements which brings these wonderful works to a modern audience.

The selection "Willow" from Verdi's Otello is haunting and mystical. "Un Bel Di" from Puccini's Madama Butterfly soars. Other works from Purcell's Dido and Aeneas; or Mozart's The Magic Flute; or Bizet's Carmen are arranged to be unique and evoke the context of the original opera.

Rebecca Luker's voice is superb. The electonic approach to these classics updates them, but never replaces the originals. They were not meant to replace only to offer a unique approach to classics.

Average customer rating:

Superb singing by my favorite tenor
exceptional recording of Bizet, Verdi and Puccini
The Kiss of Jussi
Notes on a classic
Pearl Fishers Duet

The "Pearl Fishers" Duet

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Milanov, Zinka | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Most Famous Opera Duets
Artists Of The Century - Jussi Bjorling, The Ultimate Collection
Bizet: The Pearl Fishers (Complete opera); Hendricks, Aler, Plasson, Capitole de Toulouse
Jussi Björling Rediscovered
Jussi Bjorling: Opera Arias

ASIN: B000003ERE
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

The Pearl Fishers: Au Fond Du Temple Saint
Tosca: Mario, Mario, Mario! - Zinka Milanov
Don Carlo: Io L' Ho Perduta!, Dio, Che Nell' Alma Infondere
Manon Lescaut: Tu, Tu, Amore? Tu? - Licia Albanese
La Boheme: O Mimi, Tu Piu Non Torni
La Forza Del Destino: Solenne In Quest' Ora
Aida: La Fatal Pietra; Oterra Addio - Zinka Milanov
Turandot: Signore, Ascolta!; Non Piangere, Liu - Renata Tebaldi
Otello: Si, Pel Ciel Marmoreo Giuro!

Amazon.com

This disc is essential for Jussi Bjoerling fans--doesn't that include almost everyone?--and for anyone who wants a distinctive sampling from recorded opera's most eloquent age. Best are Bjoerling's duets with baritone Robert Merrill--especially the classic "Au fond du temple saint" from The Pearl Fishers--and the scene with Renata Tebaldi, "Signore, ascolta; non piangere, Liu," from Turandot. Although the sound is variable--and sometimes disappointingly, annoyingly glitch-ridden in these recordings made between 1950 and 1959--the voice, the style, and the passion of the inimitable Bjoerling more than make up for it. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Superb singing by my favorite tenor.......2006-12-29

I can hardly tell you how much I loved this CD when musicologist David St. George gave
gave me a copy of it. Each time I hear the CD, Bjoerling's singing astounds me, because
depsite his age, he was in excellent voice when he recorded the "Pearl Fishers Duet."
My only complaint about Bjoerling is that a year before my birth, he died. :)

exceptional recording of Bizet, Verdi and Puccini.......2006-10-23

The beautiful main duet from Bizet's "The Pearlfishers" ("Au fond du temple saint") is the centerpiece of this disc, that also features pieces from "Aida", "Tosca", "Turandot" and "Otello", amongst others by Puccini and Verdi.

Legendary opera stars Robert Merrill, Zinka Milanov, Licia Albanese and Renata Tebaldi have the kind of voices that one rarely hears these days in opera. It's such a pleasure to know that these singers have received immortality thanks to CD reissues like this one. As other reviewers have noted, these recordings have great historical value but don't expect miracles with the overall sound quality.

[RCA/BMG Classics GD87799]

The Kiss of Jussi.......2006-08-23

Bjoerling never misses his pitch, never struggles with any note in his repertoire, never runs out of breath, and most importantly, never fails to makes any note perfectly beautiful. Bjoerling's supporting cast are immortalized by their association with this incomparable singer. Every track in this album is historically as well as artistically precious.

Notes on a classic.......2006-06-04

I'm prompted to comment only because a reviewer below offers no criticism of this famous duets recording exceept for the Manon Lescaut excerpt with Licia Albanese. As it happens, the only weakness in the cuts with Bjorling and Merrill is the workaday conducting by Renato Cellini (and the boxy sound that deserves the same miraculous remastering BMG has recently given to Toscanini). The Met was a singers' house and often fell short on conducting, saddling Golden Age voices with less than stellar maestros like Cillini, Fausto Cleva, and Leinsdorf (who actually does a very good job, for him, in Turandot, Bjorling's last opera recording before he died).

But the RCA Manon Lescaut from Rome was a wonderful exception. It is arguably the most satisfying collaboration in Bjorling's career, thanks to Jonel Perlea and the inspired Licia Albanese. Others might argue for the Aida with Milanov or the famous La Boheme with de los Angeles under Beecham. But for me the dramatic intensity of this Manon Lescaut is unparalleled. It's true that Albanese doesn't sound like a lush, full-voiced Puccini soprano, but she inhabits the role of Manon with astonishing realism and passion.

Pearl Fishers Duet.......2006-03-18

The Pearl Fishers Duet by Georges Bizet is well presented and delightfully sung. There are several additional duets on this CD which, whilst sung correctly and well, do not come over with the same lightness and flow. They would not be the best of their genre.

Average customer rating:

A great introduction to the art of Placido Domingo
This is really the best.
If you like Placido at all, you must have this CD.
Rare And Great Domingo Classics
A real Bobby Dazzler

Very Best of
Placido Domingo
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Placido Domingo: A Love Until The End Of Time
Bravo Domingo
The Very Best of Franco Corelli
Perhaps Love
The Domingo Songbook

ASIN: B000083GOJ
Release Date: 2003-04-22

Tracks:

Ill Mio Tesoro
Un'aura Amorosa
Dies Bildnis Ist Bezaubernd Schon
La Ci Darem La Mano
Vani Sono I Lamenti...Svegliatevi Nel Core
Pays Merveilleux...O Paradis
Quel Trouble Inconnu Me Penetre...Salut ! Demeure Chaste Et Pure (Faust, Act III)
Ah! Tout Est Bien Fini... O Souverain, O Juge, O Pere (Le Cid, Act III)
None But The Lonley Heart
Lensky's Aria
Donna, Non Vidi Mai (Manon Lescauy Act, II)
Ah, Manon, Mi Tradisce
Dammi I Colori...Recondita Armonia
E Lucevan Le Stelle (Tosca, Act III)
Ch'ella Mi Creda (La Fanciulla Del West, Act III)
Dai Campi, Dai Prati (Mefistofele, Act I)
Virgini Muse...Quando Al Soave Anelito
O Sink Hernieder, Nacht Der Liebe
Was Am Besten Er Kann...Hoho! Hohei!

Tracks:

Se Quel Guerrier Io Fossi!...Celeste Aida
Su, Profetessa...Di Tu Se Fedele
Forse La Soglia Attinse...Ma Se M'e Forza Perderti
O Tu Che In Seno Agli Angeli
Su, Cacciator...Fontainebleau!...
Niun Mi Tema
Ach, Wie So Herrlich Zu Schau'n
Sckenkt Man Sich Rosen In Tirol
Gern Hab'ich Die Frau'n Gekusst
O Vaterland...Da Geh'ich Zu Maxim
Dein Ist Mein Ganzes Herz
Mi Aldea
Cancion Del Sembrador
No Puede Ser
Serenata
Copillas De Belen
Coplas Del Pastor Enamorado
En Aranjues Con Tu Amor
Jealousy Tango
La Golondina

Amazon.com

Placido Domingo is a phenomenon, and every aspect of his artistry is on display in this 2-CD compilation, which includes arias from his signature roles in Italian, French, German, and Russian operas, and songs from Viennese and Spanish operettas. The original recordings range from the early 1970s to the present and show that though over the years his bright golden voice has taken on a darker, more burnished glow, it has retained the melting lyricism, the heroic ring, the thrilling top notes, and the focused intensity that make it instantly recognizable. (Comparing the Verdi arias included here with their counterparts of later vintage in the all-Verdi set The Tenor Arias bears this out.) The program demonstrates his stylistic and expressive versatility and his ability to instantly establish character and mood, from Lenski's sorrow (in Eugene Onegin), Cavaradossi's heart-rending despair (in Tosca), Otello's shattering agony, to Tristan's passion, Siegfried's exuberance, Faust's ardor (first in French by Gounod, then in Italian by Boito). In three Mozart arias, Domingo spins endless, perfectly shaped phrases with incredible breath control, then adds an oddity: the famous duet between Zerlina and Don Giovanni, a role he has not performed. Five Viennese operetta songs, one of which he also conducts, are delightful; there is a smile of pleasure in his voice, but not a hint of kitsch. By contrast, Tchaikovsky's "None but the Lonely Heart" is spoiled by an orchestration that is pure Hollywood. In the final Spanish group, he is on home ground and incomparable. This is a glorious record, a must for all lovers of great singing. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

A great introduction to the art of Placido Domingo.......2007-07-04

Placido Domingo, of course, is one of the finest tenors of the latter part of the 20th century. This 2 CD set well captures his talent, showing the range of his singing. We hear cuts from Puccini and Verdi to Tchaikovsky and Wagner to Strauss and Handel. And even a traditional Spanish sung and some operetta thrown in for good measure!

This is a wonderful introduction to his artistry, and shows that he can sing well across a variety of styles and eras. Let's sample some cuts:

"Il mio Tesoro" (from Mozart's Don Giovanni) is a difficult aria to sing well. And Domingo is up to the challenge. He displays a smooth and rich voice. His is one of those distinctive tenor voices, like Tucker's or Pavarotti's, that is quickly recognizable. This is, as noted, a challenging piece and Domingo handles it well, showing off considerable vocal agility in the process.

From the same opera, "La ci darem la mano," a sweet duet with, in this instance, soprano Susan Graham. This seductive work is sung well by both parties and is a ravishing version.

From Puccini's "Tosca," "Recondita armonia." At the close, his voice rises above orchestra and chorus. Overall, well and richly sung.

And now for something very different. . . The "Forging Scene" from Siegfried. One may not think of Domingo as a heldentenor, but he does a serviceable job here. His voice sometimes appears a bit light, but, overall, he does estimable work. He catches Siegfried's spirit as he forges the shattered remains of his father's sword, "Nothung." When he sings the name of his sword at the close, with the leitmotif ringing out from the orchestra, it is an affecting moment.

Then, "Celeste Aida" (from Verdi's opera). A stentorian voice well deployed to meet the challenges of this wonderful aria. Some tenors scoop as they move from those lower to the higher notes; Domingo's voice is well controlled here. The final high note is well hit.

Strauss (Junior's) "Ach, wie so herrlich zu schau'n" is a romp! A fun piece and well sung by Domingo. He demonstrates, as before, excellent vocal agility.

Lehar's "O Vaterland" is also fun. It is a sprightly tune sprightly sung.

Finally, he ends the second CD with a traditional Spanish tune--"La Golondrina." He does not overpower this work with operatic technique. He sings it well and affectingly.

So, all in all, if one wants a good introduction to Placido Domingo's vocal oeuvre, this is a very strong starting point.

This is really the best........2007-05-16

I have many of Mr. Domingo's recordings but I really love this one. He seems to get better with age. Some of the songs are on some of my other recordings but they seem new and fresh on this CD. I really think this is the best of Placido Domingo.

If you like Placido at all, you must have this CD........2005-04-06

Placido Domingo has been around for so long, it is easy to take this great artist for granted. I totally agree with the previous reviews of this album; I can also say that I had the opportunity to hear him live in concert on April 2, 2005 in Biloxi, Mississippi, and his voice is still stunning. His opening aria that night was the prayer from El Cid, "O Souverain," which he dedicated to the memory of Pope John Paul II. This piece is the 8th selection on CD 1, and is from a 1997 live recording. His thrilling finish blew me away when I listened to it the first time, and and the crowd on the recording reacts the same way the Mississippi audience did when we heard him. That aria alone is worth the price of this CD set.

Rare And Great Domingo Classics.......2005-03-08

EMI's "The Very Best Of" series is a wonderful way for the opera lover/novice or even connoisseur in training to get acquainted with the great singers of opera in the 20th century. It is possible that in a few years, the great singers of today (from the 90's up to now and further into the future) will grace the album covers of The Very Best Of...The Very Best Of Renee Fleming, The Very Best Of Salvatore Licitra, etc. This is not exactly the best of Domingo. It is more of a collection of rare and wonderfully expressive arias from operas that range all over the map- Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, Meyerbeer, Gounod, Massenet. Now, here's the reason why so many people adore Domingo, myself included - Domingo is a Renaissance Opera Tenor. He has sung almost every tenor role in the opera universe. Even if he is, to some, the "tenor who sang with Pavoratti in the three tenors" he proves he's the strongest of the bunch, the most dedicated, the most prolific and most artistic. Domingo has a beautiful voice, with secure high register and dark, masculine middle chest voice and exciting dramatic electricity! He's sung more than 50 operas, in addition operetta and Spanish Zarzuela (the Spanish equivalent to musicals or operetta which is where he got started and his parents sung in Zarzuela) and he has also recorded Spanish mainstream love songs for Latin audiences. A winner of Grammies, an actor in movies about operas that he starred in (Tosca, La Traviata, Otello) and the most active tenor on tv broadcasts, he is just incredible and powerful.
He is a great force in opera.

Even in his old age, he does'nt seem to be slowing down or call it quits. Recent performances (2000-2005) include Eugene Onegin, the lead in Queen of Spades, Rasputin in Debra Dratell's Nicolas and Alexandra, Idomeneo and his next role Parsifal. He is the singular tenor who mastered every repertoire- Mozart (Don Ottavio, Tamino...unfortunately Domingo as Don Giovanni is a miscast because he is too noble and romantic and GOOD to be a bad guy)..to Puccini heros (Mario Cavaradossi in Tosca, Dick Johnson in Fanciualla Del West, Rodolfo in Boheme, Pinkerton in Madame Butterfly, Calaf in Turandot) Verdi heroes (Radames in Aida, Don Carlos, Stiffelio, etc) to the French repertoire...Gounod (Faust, Romeo) Meyerbeer heroes, Massenet hero (Des Grieux, Le Cid) and Saint Saens (Samson) the list goes on and on. When this man dies, an era will die with him. His legend will live on because he will leave behind dozens of albums, movies and memories......

A real Bobby Dazzler.......2004-02-19

Fans of Mr. Domingo would be lucky to find a selection of music that more profoundly explores and exhibits the diversity of his vocal ability and interpretation than is offered on these two discs. Delicious displays of Mozart, ringing renditions of the most challenging high Italian roles, powerfully rounded accounts of some of the heavy German/Russian repetoir, and some noticably nostalgic songs from the light Spannish tradition provide an impressive catalogue of the great man's rich, focussed, technically impecable and singularly beguiling vocal talent. Those who are yet to form an opinion on any particular genre of the operatic spectrum would do well to start here, so eclectic is this album. Also, you might be reassured to know that, should you become an admirer of P.D.'s talent as a result of listening to this compilation, (it is difficult to resist), you will have no trouble finding other recordings by him. A record-breaker with more than 110 roles to his repetoir (40 is a respected total for an opera singer), he is the most recorded tenor in history, leaving more than 80 complete accounts to date of operas in the Italian, French, German and Russian traditions.

Average customer rating:

The Art of Gigli
Gigli Is A Wonderful Singer!

The Very Best of Beniamino Gigli

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

The Very Best of Franco Corelli
The Very Best of Giuseppe di Stefano
Carlo Bergonzi - The Sublime Voice ~ 40 Tracks from the Legendary Tenor
Beniamino Gigli: Historical Recordings 1927 - 1951
Giuseppe Di Stefano Sings Neapolitan Songs

ASIN: B0000A5BXR
Release Date: 2003-09-02

Tracks:

Se Quel Guerrier Io Fossi...Celeste Aida
La Donna E Mobile
Una Furtiva Lagrima
Qual Turbamento...Salve Dimora
O Dolce Incanto...Chiuder Gli Occhi
Che Gelida Manina
Recondita Armonia
E Lucevan Le Stelle
Dovunque Al Mondo
Recitar!...Vesti La Giubba
Intanto Amici, Qua...Viva Il Vino Spumeggiante
Mamma, Quel Vino E Generoso
Non Colombelle!...Ah! Tu Ch'Odi Lo Mio Grido
Che Avvien?...Ah! Non V'Avvicinate...No! Pazzo Son!
Cujus Animam
Panis Angelicus
Ingemisco
Ave Maria
Core 'Ngrato
Funiculi, Funicula - Chorus

Tracks:

'O Sole Mio
La Serenata
La Danza
Aprile
Mattinata
Torna A Surriento
L'Ultima Canzone
La Vita E Inferno...O Tu Che In Seno
E La Solita Storia Del Pastor
Un Di All'Azzurro Spazio
Andrea Chenier...Corragio!...Si, Fui Soldato
Come Un Bel Di Di Maggio
Di' Tu Se Fedele
Forse La Soglia Attinse...Ma Se M' E Forza Perderti
Rachel, Quand Du Seigneur
Puisqu'on Ne Peut Flechir...Vainement, Ma Bien-Aimee
Io Son Sol...Ah! Dispar, Vision
Ah! Non Mi Ridestar
Quanto E Bella - Chorus
Nessun Dorma - Chorus

Customer Reviews:

The Art of Gigli.......2007-03-09

After Caruso's death, Beniamino Gigli became one of the most renowned tenors in the world. His rich voice well justified his reputation. While some of his mannerisms (the little "cries" and "catches" in his voice) can be a bit overdone, they were not atypical of the time. A few reactions to specific cuts.

"Celeste Aida" from Verdi's opera is smoothly sung; his rich voice serves to good effect. As already noted, the little "cries" are unfortunate, but hardly an issue. His higher notes flow smoothly from lower ones, in a seamless fashion. It would have been nice to hear him try for the piano at the end, but he did not choose to do so. Any way you slice it, a nice version of a glorious aria.

"La donna e mobile" is taken at a rather slow pace. It is smoothly sung but does not really catch the spirit of the wretched Duke. He shows wonderful breath control. This is more a workmanlike than scintillating version. On the other hand, "Che gelida manina" is wonderful. Smooth, elegant singing. A very well done high note. An iconic version.

The twin arias from "Tosca," "Recondita armonia" and "E lucevan le stelle" are very well executed. His rendering of the final "la vita" in the latter aria is, again, noteworthy.

And now for something completely different. . . . "Funiculi funicula" is spritely sung, in good spirits, and it is a lot of fun! Most enjoyable. "O Sole mio," likewise, is well rendered. As previously noted, some "off putting" cries, but the warm, full voice more than makes up for such mannerisms. He does not overpower this song with operatic technique. The end result is most satisfying.

"La danza" befuddled the great Caruso (in his version, his breathing fell apart at one point). But not Gigli. Well sung, good breath control. Bravo Gigli!

Back to opera. . . . "Nessun dorma" is well sung. The vocalization is smooth. Gigli's voice soars over orchestra and other voices. The final "Vincero" rings out.

While this CD is not without some questions, as noted above, it is worth 5 stars for its full portrayal of the work of Gigli. As such, it can be recommended for anyone who wants a comprehensive introduction to this singer.

Gigli Is A Wonderful Singer!.......2006-07-31

It's an honor for me to be "the first" to review this recording for Amazon. As "opera lovers" know, Gigli was "the greatest tenor in the world" for many years after the death of Caruso. If you haven't heard Gigli, a great treat is in store for you! He had "penache" and drama in the way he sang. Plus he had a beautiful tonal quality! I could go on and on but if you "pass this guy up" you'll be missing some beautiful and dramatic singing from a "world class" singing actor.

Besides listening to Gigli on Cd, you'd be doing yourself a favor to buy a movie in which Gigli appears and sings. The movie is called "Non Ti Scordar di Me". I'll try to find it on amazon or from "The Bel Canto Society" and give it a "review" also. It's an "old movie" but it has a VERY touching story, is well acted, and you get to see and hear Gigli which is a great treat since he has been gone for at least 50 years. He "comes alive" in this CD and in the movie. You will "thrill" to the sound of his voice. Enjoy! Email:boland7214@aol.

The Movies Go To The Opera: Great Operatic Melodies featured in

Average customer rating:

Unbelievable , this is Opera
For those who like the stirring operatic bits
EDUCATIONAL
Some of Opera's Best Gems
Some of Opera's Best Gems

The Movies Go To The Opera: Great Operatic Melodies featured in

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Opera Goes to the Movies
Panorama: Music from the Movies
The Most Famous Opera Duets
The Most Famous Opera Arias
The #1 Opera Album

ASIN: B000002SQ3
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Fatal Attraction- Madama Butterfly- Un bel di
Death Of Butterfly
Giacomo Puccini / Turandot-Nessun Dorma (Witches Of Eastwick)
Lakme-Viens, Mallika (Someone To Watch Over Me)
La Boheme: Musetta's Waltz (Moonstruck)
La Boheme-Mimi's Farewell (Moonstruck)
Dark Eyes / Una voce poco fa
Apocalypse Now / Ride of the Valkyries
Jean De Florette, Manon Of The Spring / Overture
La Wally-Ebben? Ne Andr Lontano (Diva)
Les Pecheurs De Perles-Au Fond Du Temple Saint (Gallipoli)
Manon Lescaut-Sola, Perduta E Abbandonata (Hannah And Her Sisters)
Gianni Schicchi-Firenze-Come...(Room With A View)
Gianni Schicchi-O Mio Babbino Caro (Room With A View)
Chi Il Bel Sogno Di Doretta
Cavalleria Rusticana-Intermezzo (Raging Bull)

Customer Reviews:

Unbelievable , this is Opera.......2007-06-26

These are opera melodies that have been adapted to some outstanding feature films. Looking at some of the scenes and hearing the music has enforced sight and sound. Even if you are not an opera buff or a movie buff you will be entralled by what you hear. You may even want to buy the film or the music album/

For those who like the stirring operatic bits.......2004-04-29

I'm not a diehard opera fan. That means I can't sit through the no or low musical sections. After all, opera is a visual art as well as an aural one, and there's alot of low energy periods where one would have to be watching it live to avoid slipping into a coma. If that. I tend to like the arias and the duets. These are the bill of fare on this album, with a healthy portion of brain glue added by each piece's tie-in with a major motion picture. For instance, a favorite picture of mine is the Australian production of "Gallipoli", which depicts the carnage inflicted on Aussie and Kiwi troopers doing the Queen's dirty work with wave after wave of direct frontal infantry assaults against Turkish heavily fortified breastworks and murdurous interlocking fields of fire of many heavy machine gun positions and pre-sited mortar batteries. There is a certain eerie and sad scene depicting a couple of young Aussie junior officers, boys really, in the tent of a superior on the night before the early morning attack. The viewer has the superior vision of recorded history, while these apple cheeks have no inkling of the mailed fist that will hammer them down in a few hours. The older officer puts a platter on the crank up Victrola, and for most of us, we get our first introduction to the haunting strains of "Au Fond du Temple Saint" from the French opera "Pêcheurs de Perles". I'm sure a portion of the haunting and eerie qualities stem from my total lack of french language skills. That piece will forever be associated with the bloodbath at Gallipoli Peninsula, at least as far as my brain goes. And so it goes with many of the other pieces of music in this collection. From "Apocolypse Now" is included the best piece of music to attack an enemy by, "Ride of the Valkyries" from the famous AirMobile copter assault, an attack scene that redefined cinematic battle sequencing forever. Everyone should recognise at least one musical movie slice here.
Tie ins include Raging Bull, Fatal Attraction, and Someone to Watch Over Me.

EDUCATIONAL.......2002-04-20

I BOUGHT THIS CD SOMETIME AGO WHEN I WANTED TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OPERA. THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST CD'S OUT WHEN CONSIDERING TRYING TO TURN YOUNG PEOPLE ON TO THE ARTS, ANYONE WHO LISTENS TO THIS WILL DEFINETLY HAVE AT LEAST ONE FAVORITE.

Some of Opera's Best Gems.......2002-04-01

I've long been an opera fan, so you might expect me to sneer at a compilation. Not so! For opera fans, this is a "stroll down memory lane," offering some lovely jewels from well-loved operas. For those new to opera, this is a wonderful introduction. Even if you don't know the language or the story, you will be utterly transported by several of these arias.

Just to whet your appetite, here are a few tidbits about some of my favorites on this CD:

- The angelic duet from Lakmé is about a sacred river in India whose banks are overflowing with fragrant spring flowers.

- In the duet from Les Pecheurs de Perles (Pearl Fishers), two men who are best friends sing rapturously about falling in love at first sight with a beautiful woman; for each it was an almost mystical experience. When they realize they are in love with the SAME woman, they are alarmed, and vow to not let anything destroy their friendship.

- "Quando m'en vo" from La Bohème is really funny because a woman is bragging loudly about how popular she is, to make an ex-boyfriend jealous. (It works, and she wins him back.)

- The second aria from La Bohème--Mimi's dying words to her lover Rodolfo and her dear friends--is beautiful and touching. However, you should also hear the glorious songs that Mimi and Rudolfo sing when they first fall in love! (Those are not in this collection.)

- The dreamy and mysterious "Nessun Dorma" is sung by a man who eagerly anticipates being married to a beautiful princess the next day, but who may very well be put to death instead. His fate hangs in the balance as all the residents of ancient Peking stay awake all night, trying to discover his secret.

Of course, the only way to really know what opera is about is to go to a live performance, where you not only hear the glorious music but also enjoy the entertaining story, costumes, sets, and action. Good bets at first are operas by Puccini, Bizet, Mozart, Verdi, and Rossini--hold off on Wagner for a while! ....

For what it's meant to do, I would give this CD full marks (5 stars).

Some of Opera's Best Gems.......2002-04-01

Just to whet your appetite, here are a few tidbits about some of my favorites on this CD:

- The angelic duet from Lakmé is about a sacred river in India whose banks are overflowing with fragrant spring flowers.

- "Quando m'en vo" from La Bohème is really funny because a woman is bragging loudly about how popular she is, to make an ex-boyfriend jealous. (It works, and she wins him back.)

For what it's meant to do, I would give this CD full marks (5 stars).

Music Track: