Search - Gioachino Rossini, Claudio Abbado, La Scala Theater Orchestra :: Rossini: L'Italiana in Algeri

The Italian Girl in Algiers, premiered in 1813, was the first of Rossini?s comedies to exhibit his fully mature style, and one of the first to establish his unquestioned dominance in the opera world of his day. It literally overflows with delightful melody, rhythmic verve, and sparkling humor. The most famous numbers in the score are Isabella?s spectacular coloratura aria "Cruda sorte," and the thunderingly farcical final ensemble of the first act, which never fails to bring down the house. This live 1975 performance from Italy?s greatest opera house stars American mezzo-soprano Marilyn Horne, whom Opera News called "probably the greatest singer in the world" in 1981. In her 40-year career, Marilyn Horne has been recognized as one of the greatest mezzo-sopranos in opera history, and the greatest Rossini interpreter in modern times. Her numerous recordings are classics of the catalogue and have won countless awards, besides being best-sellers!