Search - George Frederick Handel, Giacomo Meyerbeer, Gioachino Rossini :: Marilyn Horne: Arias & Scenes

Another testament to the beauties of fine singing

10/07/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Here again we have some of Marilyn Horne's best singing represented in works in which she simply is incomparable. The disk begins with Handel, and in my eyes and to my ears, she has little or no competition in this music (Ewa Podles comes close in excitement, and being a true contralto gives more thrust to the lower notes than Horne, but that is a very little thing when viewing the whole). After enjoying the excitement of sound, and of technique, she brings to this music one is left cold hearing other singers perform it (especially countertenors and those who specialize in "authentic" recordings). From there we move on to her more familiar arias from the bel canto time period. Again, we are astounded by the mastery she brings to everything she sings. Horne was famous, and justly so, and while she was alive and actively singing (she is still alive, but not singing actively) no one could match her. Sadly, for a portion of her career she was seen as "Sutherland's Mezzo" which truly diminished her contribution. Fortunately, that stigma was removed and we were able to assess her for what she truly had to offer, which was unbelievable. There are many collections of Marilyn Horne singing this music, but this one is more complete in the sense it gives you those arias you really wish to hear, missing out some that are not so exciting. True, there are others were wish were included in this set. If you enjoy excellent singing, and tons of personality, in your singers, then buy this recording. You will not be disappointed. The sound is very brilliant, and the voice sounds a bit forward, but I think that is the result of the technical work in reprinting this material."