Verdi
Verdi: Un giorno di regno (Fryderyk Chopin Institute)
Diverting but not definitive [SW]
Verdi: Il trovatore (Pristine Audio)
A performance which captures the absolute essence of Verdi’s masterpiece in remarkably fine sound [PSt]
Verdi: Simon Boccanegra (Opera Rara)
An important example of the rich artistic legacy of the Elder/Hallé partnership [MC]
Verdi: Il trovatore (Pristine Audio)
Pristine elevates the sonic experience of hearing two great artists in their Met debuts [RMo]
Verdi: Il trovatore (Pristine Audio)
A finely produced package of golden age singing, splendidly refurbished for a new generation [MP]
Verdi: Simon Boccanegra (Opera Rara)
This must now become first choice for the original version [RMo]
Eleonora Buratto: Indomita (Pentatone)
A thrilling programme and a valuable calling card for the art of Eleonora Buratto [GF]
Verdi: Complete Ballet Music (BR Klassik)
A superb release which should not be missed [MP]
Eleonora Buratto (soprano) Indomita (Pentatone)
Committed, full-throated bel canto singing – but it must be measured against formidable competition [RMo]
Verdi: Messa da Requiem (CRQ Editions)
La Scala in the Soviet Union perform a memorable Verdi Requiem [PH]
Verdi: Simon Boccanegra (Opera Rara)
A great recording of a classic of the Verdi canon in its original version [PH]
Verdi: Il trovatore (Pristine Audio)
This Pristine remastering is now the best option for hearing a classic, vintage account [RMo]
Teatro La Fenice Opera Collection Vol 1 (Dynamic)
A mixed bag of operatic performances from La Fenice contains some unexpected riches, but the choice of repertoire is unusual [PCG]
Verdi: Complete Ballet Music (BR Klassik)
If you like ballet music, this engaging CD should be in your collection [KT]
Amelita Galli-Curci (soprano): Operatic arias Vol. 1 (Nimbus Records)
A truly great lyric coloratura soprano of the early 20th century, showcased in first-rate transfers [RMo]
Verdi: Don Carlo (Orfeo)
The best live Italian version in the best sound available [RMo]
Verdi: Il trovatore (Pristine Audio)
An obligatory buy for lovers of Il trovatore, never mind how many modern recordings you have [GF]
Maria – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (Warner Classics)
Callas’ voice restored for a film score; if you love her voice, maybe this is one for you [KT]
Verdi: Rigoletto (Warner Classics)
An under-rated, somewhat overlooked recording featuring an array of superb voices, very well conducted [RMo]
Verdi: Noble Renegades – recital (Delos)
Sound, solid singing does not compensate for a lack of tonal variety, elegance and refinement [RMo]
Verdi: Don Carlo (Orfeo)
Not only die-hard Verdians but all serious opera lovers should give it a try [GF]
Pene Pati (tenor): Nessun Dorma (Warner Classics)
That Pene Pati is a talented tenor far beyond the ordinary is obvious, and I hope he isn’t tempted to take on heavier roles too early [GF]