Search - Eric Garrett, Giuseppe Verdi, Gaetano Donizetti :: Masters of the Voice: Tenor

Some truly outstanding performances

OperaOnline.us | Boston, MA | 07/11/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This two CD set from Deutsche Grammophon does as it states: it offers some of the greatest tenors of our time in some truly outstanding performances. Thirty-seven arias all told, take a little getting used to as most "all tenor" recordings do. But overall it's a worthy and worthwhile effort. As those who read these reviews know I have a clear preference for CDs that have and maintain a theme throughout, so when I sit down to listen I don't have to keep the clicker nearby. Here, because the CD's represent a collection of favorites, the emphasis also has to be on consistency of musical reproduction, and with the exception of one or two songs, the consistency in the latter regard is good throughout. So, on these two criteria: theme and sound quality, "Masters" gets high grades. As far as selection goes, I might have suggested a change or two, but only one or two. The tenor voice can grate and on occasion it does just that. Still, there are more standouts than drawbacks: Pavarotti's "Le camarade est amoureux" from Donizetti's "La fille du regiment", for its rich, rousing chorus and full orchestration; Jose Carreras "Ombra mai fu" from Handel's "Serse" for its soulful melody - and there are many more. I had to listen to this CD three or four times before writing this review because I didn't want to miss what was occurring here, and I'm glad I did. It grows on you and stands as a truly remarkable assemblage of some powerful, moving music. These are the strengths of this set and why I would recommend it. There are some curiously abrupt endings (4 fade-outs) on side two - maybe the producers were counting minutes and realized that some songs just had to be cut - bad idea. These are noticeable and annoying, as in Juse Bjorling's "Ingemisco" in Verdi's "Requiem" and Carlo Bergonzi's "Come un bel di di maggio" from Giordano's "Andrea Chenier" and at least two more. Where did the endings go? Lastly, a personal recommendation on when best to listen to this set: no kids, no phone calls, no group discussions. I took it in the car for a few rides and then after I got used to it moved indoors -- and now listen to it when I am sitting and relaxing. I recommend it. (PJW)"

Do-Re-Me-WOW!

R. Coffin | California | 05/14/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a fantastic new collection of different classical music styles, languages, and singers. The production quality is excellent. If you are interested in singing or love opera then you would probably enjoy this CD. You may find some excellent singers you haven't been exposed to. I can't wait until they release Bass, Alto & Soprano."