Search - Monteverdi, Coro Antonio Il Verso, Garrido :: L'Orfeo

A Rare, First Choice L'Orfeo

R. Gerard | Pennsylvania USA | 12/29/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is, without question, the best rendition of Monteverdi's L'Orfeo available. Although Gabriel Garrido's release (under the French label K617, distributed by Harmonia Mundi) is so rare here in the States, it enjoys well-deserved accolade in Europe.



Each L'Orfeo recording is different, because the opera was written by Monteverdi only with the basso continuo, voices, and other main parts. The other parts were to be improvised. Each conductor of the work has appied his own vision, and by far, Garbiel Garrido's is the most convincing.



In addition to the spirited, devoted music-making by the historically informed orchestra, Ensemble Elyma, are the singers.



The cast is perfectly chosen, each keeping their vibrato under control for this archaic work. Maria Cristina Kiehr plays her double part of La Musica and Speranza more than well, on par with Emma Kirkby on the more well-known EMI release. In some aspects, Kiehr exceeds Kirkby. Victor Torres's Orfeo is also very well sung. Gerd Turk's Pastore and Antonio Abete's Caronte are flawless. The chorus Antonio Il Verso is good beyond words.



The chorus, "Lasciate i monti" and its ritornellos are lively. Gloria Banditelli plays the part of La Messaggiera and executes her suspenseful part in Act II well, much more stylishly than Anne Sophie von Otter. This release contains the best "Possente Spirito" on record. The countertenor Fabian Schofrin playing Pastore II has an amazing voice. The finale chorus and Moresca are climactic and make the other interpretaions seem too "polite."



It is a wonder why Garrido's release of L'Orfeo has not recieved its well earned acclaim here in the states. Most would agree that his realization of L'Orfeo surpassed those of the more popular Gardiner, Jacobs, etc.



The sound quality is clear as crystal and has the feel of a large opera house without excessive resonance.



There is no libretto enclosed (keep in mind this is primarily and European release.) But there are *please* do not let this deter you from buying this all-around fantastic L'Orfeo.



This is a rare find here in the United States, but your search to find this K617 release will be well worth it. Very highly recommended."

Top class performance and recording

Gary J. Wright | San Francisco, CA United States | 08/25/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a great set. The main competition to this production comes from Gardiner, with Anthony Rolfe Johnson as Orfeo. His is a superbly attractive voice, and he remains the best Orfeo I've heard. But Victor Torres is excellent too and his performance is very distinctive and rich in character. What's more, he is better recorded, as is the whole of Garrido's interpretation. Throughout, the sound is more detailed, fuller and atmospheric than Gardiner's thinner Archiv recording.
But back to the performers. Despite having a slim (though valuable) advantage with his Orfeo, Gardiner's vocalists come second in almost every department. Kiehr outshines Lynne Dawson, Banditelli leaves Von Otter trailing, Zanasi sees off Willard White and Fernandez edges Baird. And yet, Gardiner's cast is very good indeed, which shows just how superbly Garrido's team performs here. Both sets boast very fine choruses.
I also prefer the instrumental work of Garrido's musicians. There is a truly lovely plucked string presence and many details come through that are obscured in the resonant Archiv recording.
Until Monteverdi-master Alessandrini gives us a L'Orfeo (what a prospect that is!), I have no hesitation in now placing the Garrido top of the list. And I can tell you, even Alessandrini's great team could have their work cut out to match it."

How to get booklet for this excellent recording

R. Grames | Florissant, MO USA | 02/16/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This performance has no layers of academic dust settled on it. It is vital and exuberant, and very well sung. I recommend it wholeheartedly, especially at this incredible price.My copy had no book in it. I sent a note to K617 from their web site and had a book in ten days. This was beyond the call of duty, as this is a highly discounted version designed to introduce buyers to their label. So, great service too.Buy while you can!"