for Ella

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
Vocal diva Patti Austin delivers a soulful, moving tribute to America's first lady of song, Ella Fitzgerald. Backed by the swinging WDR Big Band and String Orchestra and featuring new arrangements by Grammy Award-winning arranger Patrick Williams. 13 tracks including 'Too Close For Comfort', 'Honeysuckle Rose' & 'Satin Doll'.

Tracks:

Overture
Summertime
I Wants To Stay Here
My Man's Gone Now
I Got Plenty O'Nuttin'
Buzzard Song
Bess, You Is My Woman Now
It Ain't Necessarily So
What You Want Wild Bess?
A Woman Is A Sometime Thing
Oh, Doctor Jesus
Medley: Here Come De Honey Man/Crab Man/Oh, Deh's So Fresh And Fine (Strawberry Woman)
There's A Boat Dat's Leavin' Soon For New York
Bess, Oh Where's My Bess
Oh Lawd, I'm On My Way

Amazon.com

Getting the two most personable voices in jazz to sing an hour's worth of George Gershwin's opera Porgy & Bess (Ella doing all the female parts, Satchmo all the male) was a good idea, but not quite as great as it sounded. Armstrong savors the down-and-dirty Charlestonisms that inspired the cadences of the music and lyrics, and they fit his happy rasp like an old shoe; Fitzgerald, conversely, sounds almost prissy every time she has to sing the word "ain't," though her melodic genius gets Gershwin's bold, supple tunes over. The arrangements are full-throttle Broadway, with a few leaps into Dixieland (including some fine Armstrong trumpet solos), but the disc works best when the vocalists break character and let their jazz side out. --Douglas Wolk

Customer Reviews:

Absolutely peerless.......2006-11-17

"Porgy and Bess" has just opened (with some controversy) in London's West End, though as a musical and not as an opera as it was originally conceived. Reviews have been promising and I aim to go down and see it soon. I decided to listen to this CD to put myself in the mood. I hadn't listened to it for years and I'd completely forgotten how good it actually is. Ella's voice blends with Louis' perfectly and Russell Garcia's orchestration gives them a dreamy landscape to perform against. I have one or two other CDs by Louis and Ella but this one is by far my favourite. The CD opens with "Overture" and its orchestral performance of classics like "Summertime", "I Wants To Stay Here", "I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'" and "It Ain't Neccessarily So" set the tone nicely, leaving one ever so keen for the vocal versions. Louis Armstong has a very rough tone to his voice but the emotion he packs with it is moving, most especially on the mournful "Bess, Oh Where's My Bess?" And we get all this and Louis' wonderful trumpet playing too?

Gershwin and Gershwin must be among the top composers of the last century and this opera showcases their talents more than anything I've heard. Ella and Louis are peerless as a vocal duo and though I doubt the West End performance will capture the magic in the same way they did, I still remain very keen to go see it. Is it opera or is it a jazz performance? I don't really know. I just know that I love it. And strongly recommend it.

once-in-a-lifetime greatness.......2006-10-06

Two thousand five hundred musicians have recorded "Summertime" --- it's a classic. (I bet most Americans can name Janis Joplin and no other singer.) As for "Porgy and Bess," the folk opera from which "Summertime" springs, it's such a classic that it's hard to believe anyone ever had a harsh word to say about it.

But after its premiere in 1935, no less than Duke Ellington said, "It has grand music and a swell play, but the two didn't go together. It does not use the Negro musical idiom --- the times are here to debunk Gershwin's lampblack Negroisms."

A quarter of a century later, the producers of the film version had trouble assembling a cast. Harry Belafonte rejected their offer to play Porgy. Sidney Poitier took the part --- and wished he hadn't. Poitier later wrote that the movie insulted black people; when he chose clips of his best performances for his tribute at the American Film Institute, he picked nothing from "Porgy and Bess."

And in 1985, when Grace Bumbry was a sensation as Bess in a Metropolitan Opera production, she slammed the opera: "I thought it beneath me, I felt I had worked far too hard, that we had come far too far to have to retrogress to 1935."

All that may be. All I know is that I have, in a long life, rarely been confronted with more genius than in the Fitzgerald/Armstrong recording of "Porgy & Bess." Set aside the achievement of George and Ira Gershwin in transforming DuBose Heyward's novel into a folk opera. Let's just focus on Armstrong and Fitzgerald, who were at the peak of their popularity when this record was made in 1957.

"Summertime" --- the first song --- sets the tone. A baleful horn figure, then violins. And then Armstrong's trumpet: slow, steady, dignified. But wait --- here comes a slurred note. And a cool little improvisation. Just enough of each. Very tasty.

Fitzgerald sings a verse. She is cool and formal. A lady. Not to be taken lightly. Now it's Armstrong's turn. Tender, but let's not kid ourselves --- this is not singing as others define it. This is melodic speech: rough, gutteral. And thus he is ideally cast: His Porgy may have his charms, but he'll have to stretch to keep Bess.

And so it goes throughout the CD. Trumpet mastery --- Armstrong has dazzling control. His tone is bright, but never shrill; there's a warmth in his playing no one else could produce. And Fitzgerald is just a study in inevitability; to hear her is to wonder how anyone could sing these songs any other way.

"I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'." "Bess, You Is My Woman Now." "A Woman Is a Sometime Thing." "There's a Boat Dat's Leavin' Soon for New York." "Bess, Oh Where's My Bess?" "Oh Lawd, I'm on My Way."

All brilliantly conceived, orchestrated and recorded.

The greatest trumpet player in this history of jazz.

The father of scat singing.

The queen of the jazz vocal.

There are no-brainers, and then there is this Ella Fitzgerald-Louis Armstrong collaboration --- music that imprints on your soul.

We love this album.......2006-08-22

We hope they will someday bring this beautiful story back to the stage

Simply great.......2006-03-04

The fusion between the great two voices and the orchestra is just brilliant. Very good brass and violins that accompany Fitzeralds and Armstrongs magic voices leaves you with your mouth open.

A must have for everyone!

Porgy and Bess.......2005-10-14

Could not find this anyway locally. It is a great recording

Average customer rating:

Great Album
A Remarkable Tribute To Ms. Ella
It doesn't get any better!
Patti does Ella Proud. . .
Jazzy Patti

for Ella
Patti Austin
Manufacturer: Playboy Jazz
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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We All Love Ella: Celebrating the First Lady of Song

ASIN: B000063ULX
Release Date: 2002-05-21

Tracks:

Too Close For Comfort
Honeysuckle Rose
You'll Have To Swing It (Mr. Paganini)
Our Love Is Here To Stay
A Tisket A Tasket
Miss Otis Regrets
Hard Hearted Hannah, (The Vamp Of Savannah)
But Not For Me
Satin Doll
The Man I Love
Hearing Ella Sing
How High The Moon

Album Description

Vocal diva Patti Austin delivers a soulful, moving tribute to America's first lady of song, Ella Fitzgerald. Backed by the swinging WDR Big Band and String Orchestra and featuring new arrangements by Grammy Award-winning arranger Patrick Williams. 13 tracks including 'Too Close For Comfort', 'Honeysuckle Rose' & 'Satin Doll'.

Customer Reviews:

Great Album.......2007-03-05

I don't have much to add to the other lauditory comments on this album which is one of my favorites. What I did want to add is the Patti and I graduated from the same high school, (Bay Shore NY). In high school Patti was a major talent and at least known to every student. In addition to being a really nice person she was the star of the school play, all state choir, cheerleader (YES!), student government, etc. She also had a single that got extensive play on a local radio station and was doing thnigs like good will tours of South America with her godfather Quincy Jones. None of us have been surprised by her success.

A Remarkable Tribute To Ms. Ella .......2007-01-27

"While I was immersed in Ella's world, I talked to many people who knew and worked with her through the years. One thing remained constant, they all talked about her extreme shyness. This was obviously restricted to her off stage persona because when Ella hit the stage she was the Queen - Long live the Queen . . . This is for Ella with love!" ~ Patti Austin ~

Who could better give a great tribute to the First Lady of Song Ella Fitzgerald than a remarkable jazz singer herself, Patti Austin? And this album is a showcase of a dozen of songs Ms. Ella was very famous for from the very first, "Too Close For Comfort" to the final track "How High The Moon." Ms. Austin will attract your ears and will capture your undivided attention as she performs these songs in her own inimitable style with the backing of The WDR Big Band and String Ensemble headed by a fine orchestrator Patrick Williams.

Her crowning glories include the Gershwins' "Love Is Here To Stay," "But Not For Me," and "The Man I Love." Ditto with her effortless singing in "Satin Doll," "How High The Moon" and "Honeysuckle Rose." These are my own favorites here.

Patrick Williams and Arthur Hamilton composed a tribute song to Ms. Ella called "Hearing Ella Sing," with partial lyrics here.

Sweet and pure
That's for sure
And you'll always know
When you're hearing Ella sing . . .

If you're not groovin'
Then you are not hearing Ella sing
She sung with Bing and Frank and Nat
On everything from jazz to scat.

Let's keep Ms. Ella's music alive by listening to one of the best tribute albums ever recorded such as this one - Patti Austin's "For Ella."

Wholeheartedly recommended.

It doesn't get any better!.......2007-01-22

I've just left a Patti Austin concert in Fort Worth featuring these songs and I can't imagine anyone having delivered anything better. Patti is superb, on many songs including Yellow Basket and Miss Otis Regrets, she 'elevated' Ella's own style with more blues, jazz and drama. I have thought for years that Patti is the best kept secret in the music business. Ella fans should be pleased and Patti fans will be thrilled.

Patti does Ella Proud. . . .......2005-08-02

As one of the very best East coast-based session singers around, Patti Austin is hugely underappreciated. Though I've been a fan stretching back to her "Havana Candy" days of the '70's, I have sometimes been disappointed in the quality of some of her material: a lot of it hasn't always been worthy of her great and unique voice. But "For Ella" is worthy tribute that gives Patti a chance to show off her gorgeous (and technically stunning) pipes! Who else in this day and age of Britney Spears-inspired posing--could attempt (and greatly succeed) at a near-impossible classic "How High the Moon?" Indeed, by the time Patti is through with this classic, one is blown away, left breathless by the sheer (and loving) audacity with which the entire disc was recorded. Patti rocks here like no other!

Jazzy Patti.......2005-02-12

I have to confess that I am actually ordering this CD today. So, why am I writing a review you ask? Well, I was fortunate enough to see Patti Austin live last night with the Augusta Symphony Orchestra (Augusta, GA) as part of their annual Pops Series. Ms. Austin was superb. She sang her Ella Fitgerald songbook with a warm R&B style that gave new life to Ella's classics. This CD was nominated for a grammy, but unfortunately didn't win. If this CD is only half as good as Patti was last night, it is still a 5 star achievement.

Artists Of The Century - Jussi Bjorling, The Ultimate Collection

Average customer rating:

Excellent older music
A Golden Voice!
Heaven
The Ultimate Tenor Anthology
The biggest hype I've ever seen or heard

Artists Of The Century - Jussi Bjorling, The Ultimate Collection

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Jussi Björling Rediscovered
The "Pearl Fishers" Duet
The Very Best of Beniamino Gigli
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Jussi Bjorling: Opera Arias

ASIN: B00000J911
Release Date: 1999-05-25

Tracks:

Aida: Se quel guerriero io fossi; Celete Aida
Manon Lescaut - Donna non vida mai
Rigoletto - La Donna ? mobile
Rigoletto - Ella mi fu rapita; Parmi veder le lagrime
Cavalleria Rusticana - Siciliana: O Lola - Frederick Schauwecker
Faust - Salut, demeure chaste et pure - Robert Merrill
Pagliacci - Vesti la guibba
La Boh?me - Che gelida manini - Licia Albanese
Prince Igor - Vladimir's Recitative and Cavatina
Andrea Cher - Come un bel di di maggio
Martha - M'apparutt'amor
L'elisir d'amore - Una furtiva lagrima
Eugene Onegin - F, f (Lensky's aria)
Turandot - Nessun Dorma
Tosca - Recondita armonia
Tosca - E lucevan le stelle
Tosca - O dolci mani
The Trout (Die Forelle)
An Silvia: Was ist Silvia?
Stchen D. 957/4

Tracks:

The Pearl Fishers - Au fond du temple saint
Tosca - Mario, Mario, Mario!
Don Carlo - lo l'ho perduta!; Dio, che nell'alma infondere
Manon Lescaut - Oh, sar pila!; Tu, tu, amore? Tu?
La Boh - In un coup Mimtu pitorni
La Forza Del Destina - Solenne in quest'ora
Aida - La fatal pietra; O terra addio
Turandot - Signore, escaolta!; Non piangere, Li
Otello - Oh! monstruosa colpa!; Si, pel ciel marmorea giuro!
A Dream
Turandot - Nessun Dorma
Zeignung, Op 10, No. 1/Dedica

Amazon.com

Surely Björling was one of the greatest tenors of his or any other time, not only for the clarion ring, the purity, and the melting lyricism of his voice, but for his effortless lightness, impeccable intonation, endless breath control, and natural phrasing and line, enhanced by old-fashioned but wonderfully expressive scoops and slides. On this generous two-disc set, he is heard in a huge selection of arias and some duets with distinguished colleagues; most of them were recorded separately, and a few are excerpted from complete opera recordings--unfortunately not very skillfully, stopping abruptly in mid-phrase if not mid-note. No matter; the miraculous thing is that Björling, whether singing an entire role or a single aria, can instantly create a character and bring him to vibrant life. He sings everything in the original keys--his high B-flats, B's, and C's are thrilling--and almost everything in the original language, including a few songs by Schubert, Strauss, and Grieg. Recorded live in recital, they are delightful--only one is too operatic. Among his partners, soprano Zinka Milanov and baritone Robert Merrill stand out. This recording presents an incomparable artist at his incomparable best. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

Excellent older music.......2007-04-05

He is obviously one of the best of his time and puts to shame some of the newer singers. You get alot for your money on this CD too. I highly recommend it for a Sunday morning to enjoy your coffee, newspaper, and scones :}

A Golden Voice!.......2006-07-31

In opera circles everyone knows about Jussi Bjorling. But, I am writing this for the many people who never heard of him. He died in 1960 at the age of 49 so he hasn't been around for 46 years. Thus, the younger generation have only heard of Pavarotti, Domingo, Correras and some newer fellows. Believe me, the sweet, honeyed, golden voice of Bjorling will impress you. His voice..his "instrument".....is...is....what can I say, it's "beautiful". If you haven't heard him before you have an enormous treat ahead of you! If you love the beautiful sound of a "trained" voice, you'll love this guy! Enjoy!
(Some guy below is comparing Bjorling to DeStefano and Corelli and some others and was critical of Bjorling. The guy who wrote that must be suffering from hearing loss! ALL the tenors he mentioned are/were great artists. DON'T BELIEVE HIM...BELIEVE ME! :o) Email:boland7214@aol.

Heaven.......2004-12-13

I used to buy two separate CDs for people I was introducing to Bjoerling - the Pearl Fishers one, and the one with the Nessun dorma on it... So I was delighted when this 2 CD set came out.

To me, NO other tenor I've ever heard matches Bjoerling. His voice is one of the few that reduce me to tears just trying to EXPLAIN it to people. I've loved classical music since childhood but was never able to get into opera until I heard Jussi ... all the tenors alive today - feh, sorry, but to me they just sound like guys taking deep breaths and singing loud, not like "the voice of God" ...

The Ultimate Tenor Anthology.......2003-10-26

For anyone who has for some reason fallen in love with some other tenor voice, the discovery of Jussi Bjoerlings voice may be heartbreaking. This is not a tenor who can only sing superbly in lyric opera or only in dramatic opera, or only in song and lieder. This singer can sing whatever he wants and more; he does it equally brilliant whatever to the vocal demands may be. That, more than anything makes him absolutely unique in the record history.
In the opening selection of this compilation; "Celeste Aida", this essentially lyric voice demonstrates for every heroic and dramatic tenor how to sing dramatic opera. It is a sheer singing lesson. In the strenuous recitative, he does not shout or use other non-musical effects, but shows that true dramatic expression is characterized by tonal intensiy and not by volume, although he had plenty enough of that. The beautiful and incredibly free flow of lyric tones in the Pearlfishers duet, the Faust cavatina and in the gorgeous "Che gelida manina" is absolutely exemplary. Yet, who could replicate the beauty of those effortless high C`s? I cannot think of anyone.
The only thing that could better this and give the set 5 stars in the book, is a compilation of the same selections, transferred from the original tapes and not excessively remastered as on this occasion. The sound is at times overly bright and the voice sounds thin and even sharp. But the singing is so far unmatched.

The biggest hype I've ever seen or heard.......2003-07-27

This tenor is a tiny patch if compare to Corelli or Del Monaco, not to even mention Pavarotti. His high notes are strain to the max and he sounds like he's singing in half falsetto.
A total disappointment. I recommend Gigli and Del Monaco instead.

Average customer rating:

Mostly as good as usual, some of the selections are excellent
One of Pavarotti's best CDs
Luciano's greatest compilation CD

Amore: Romantic Italian Love Songs

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000004218
Release Date: 1992-09-15

Tracks:

'Turandot': Nessum Dorma!
O Sole Mio
La Danza
'Rigoletto': La donna e mobile
'Martha': M'appari tutt'amore
'La Boheme': Che gelida manina
Maira, Mari!
'L'elissir d'amore': Una furtiva lagrima
'Tosca': Recondita armonia
'Fedora': Amor ti vieta
Core 'ngrato
Funiculi-funicula
'Tosca': E lucevan le stelle
'Aida': Celeste Aida
'Pagliacci': Vesti la giubba
'La fanciulla del West': Ch' ella mi creda
Torna A Surriento

Amazon.com

From Calaf's "Nessun dorma" from Turandot, in which the singer exclaims his love for the ice princess and the victory he will have over her, through Lionel's realization that he will have a new life and be happy with Lady Harriet in Martha ("M'appari"), and on to Rodolfo's falling in love with Mimi in La Bohème when he touches her hand ("Che gelida manina"): here we have some of opera's most beautiful love songs, sung by Pavarotti when he was in his golden-voiced prime. His "Una furtiva lagrima" is touching and gentle, while his rendition of the Neapolitan song "Core 'ngrato"--a diatribe against his lover's rejection of him--is heartbreaking. Radames's hymn to Aida ("Celeste Aida") in which he sees Aida as "the splendor of [his] life," is glorious, and all of the other selections are equally fine. For lovers and others, this is a handsome collection. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Mostly as good as usual, some of the selections are excellent.......2006-02-22

Everybody knows Pavarotti has a good voice, whatever he sings it sounds great. In this CD I think he sounds better than the more recent recordings from him, e.g. the three tenor concerts. In my opinion I like "Una Furtiva Lagrima" the most, when his voice comes out he devoted such a sincerity throughout the song, I can just imagine that I am inside an opera house watching an excellent performance. "Nessun Dorma", which is one of his most "famous in singing well" aria, also excellent, his high notes are so beautiful and always beautiful (well...he is a king of high C man~ for real I rarely heard ppl can sing high notes better than him), but personally I like Franco Corelli singing "Nessun Dorma" more, and "Vesti la guibba" too (but of coz pavarotti also sound really good in this aria). As I read from some books, they said Pavarotti is the biggest lyric tenor nowadays, I think it is pretty true though. But one thing I found Pavarotti not "perfect" is, when he sings, mostly I just feel that "wow he sings this note beautifully", or "he sings everything perfectly", but not always have a feeling of "wow he melts my heart", or "wow he makes such a great atmosphere throughout the song", maybe because of his song selections. In general case I like Domingo and Mario Lanza better, when I heard Domingo sings I almost always feel his passion, musical sense, and communication to the audience; but in Pavarotti I dont always feel that, in this CD some of the song has this tiny problem too (like in "E lucevan le stelle", I really think he just "sounds well", I like Jose Carreras singing this song much better), but well this is just my personal opinion. However, his voice is a "legendary beautiful voice", that's 120% true. Again personally I highly recommend his "una furtiva lagrima", listen it and you won't regret it.

One of Pavarotti's best CDs.......2003-11-21

This is one of the best Pavarotti CDs I have listened to. It contains a great selection of 17 arias and Italian lyric songs. However, if you can afford it, "Pavarotti Greatest Hits: The Ultimate Collection" will offer more in a 2-CD set (a total of 41 arias and Italian lyric songs).

Luciano's greatest compilation CD.......2000-04-28

For over three decades Maestro Luciano Pavarotti has brought joy to human ears all around the world. Sure, the critics may scoff at the big arena concerts and at the later years' natural darkening of his voice. But we the fans just know that listening to him lifts our spirits and opens our hearts to the glory of human voice.

And that's exactly what this collection is all about. To compile it, the Decca producers used material from three albums: "Arias" (his earliest), "Favorite Neapolitan Songs" and "Passione," as well as some complete opera recordings such as "La Boheme" and "Rigoletto." The song "La Danza," Rossini's engaging tarantella is from a rare album "Pavarotti in Concert in Bologna" with Richard Bonynge. Most of these selections, therefore, are from 60s and 70s, in other words, Pavarotti's prime years. As he was establishing himself as one of the all-time greatest tenors on stage, he gave an all-out effort on recordings. And it shows. Listen to the vocal line in "Che gelida manina"; the breath control on "la speranza" is truly unbelievable. There is his signature aria "Nessun Dorma" and, of course, a song often mistaken for Italian National Anthem - Di Capua's "O Sole Mio!"

In addition to magnificent vocal pyrotechnics, Pavarotti's considerable acting-with-voice skills are represented on such demanding arias as "Celeste Aida" and "Vesti la Giubba". And it's a real treat to hear his Duca singing sparkling "La donna e mobile."

This is an excellent introduction to opera as well as a delightful morsel for seasoned fans. I found that it also makes a great gift idea; after all, no one can resist Pavarotti after the final "Vincero!"

Very Best of
Average customer rating:

A great introduction to the art of Placido Domingo

This is really the best.

If you like Placido at all, you must have this CD.

Rare And Great Domingo Classics

A real Bobby Dazzler

Very Best of
Placido Domingo
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000083GOJ
Release Date: 2003-04-22

Tracks:

Ill Mio Tesoro
Un'aura Amorosa
Dies Bildnis Ist Bezaubernd Schon
La Ci Darem La Mano
Vani Sono I Lamenti...Svegliatevi Nel Core
Pays Merveilleux...O Paradis
Quel Trouble Inconnu Me Penetre...Salut ! Demeure Chaste Et Pure (Faust, Act III)
Ah! Tout Est Bien Fini... O Souverain, O Juge, O Pere (Le Cid, Act III)
None But The Lonley Heart
Lensky's Aria
Donna, Non Vidi Mai (Manon Lescauy Act, II)
Ah, Manon, Mi Tradisce
Dammi I Colori...Recondita Armonia
E Lucevan Le Stelle (Tosca, Act III)
Ch'ella Mi Creda (La Fanciulla Del West, Act III)
Dai Campi, Dai Prati (Mefistofele, Act I)
Virgini Muse...Quando Al Soave Anelito
O Sink Hernieder, Nacht Der Liebe
Was Am Besten Er Kann...Hoho! Hohei!

Tracks:

Se Quel Guerrier Io Fossi!...Celeste Aida
Su, Profetessa...Di Tu Se Fedele
Forse La Soglia Attinse...Ma Se M'e Forza Perderti
O Tu Che In Seno Agli Angeli
Su, Cacciator...Fontainebleau!...
Niun Mi Tema
Ach, Wie So Herrlich Zu Schau'n
Sckenkt Man Sich Rosen In Tirol
Gern Hab'ich Die Frau'n Gekusst
O Vaterland...Da Geh'ich Zu Maxim
Dein Ist Mein Ganzes Herz
Mi Aldea
Cancion Del Sembrador
No Puede Ser
Serenata
Copillas De Belen
Coplas Del Pastor Enamorado
En Aranjues Con Tu Amor
Jealousy Tango
La Golondina

Amazon.com

Placido Domingo is a phenomenon, and every aspect of his artistry is on display in this 2-CD compilation, which includes arias from his signature roles in Italian, French, German, and Russian operas, and songs from Viennese and Spanish operettas. The original recordings range from the early 1970s to the present and show that though over the years his bright golden voice has taken on a darker, more burnished glow, it has retained the melting lyricism, the heroic ring, the thrilling top notes, and the focused intensity that make it instantly recognizable. (Comparing the Verdi arias included here with their counterparts of later vintage in the all-Verdi set The Tenor Arias bears this out.) The program demonstrates his stylistic and expressive versatility and his ability to instantly establish character and mood, from Lenski's sorrow (in Eugene Onegin), Cavaradossi's heart-rending despair (in Tosca), Otello's shattering agony, to Tristan's passion, Siegfried's exuberance, Faust's ardor (first in French by Gounod, then in Italian by Boito). In three Mozart arias, Domingo spins endless, perfectly shaped phrases with incredible breath control, then adds an oddity: the famous duet between Zerlina and Don Giovanni, a role he has not performed. Five Viennese operetta songs, one of which he also conducts, are delightful; there is a smile of pleasure in his voice, but not a hint of kitsch. By contrast, Tchaikovsky's "None but the Lonely Heart" is spoiled by an orchestration that is pure Hollywood. In the final Spanish group, he is on home ground and incomparable. This is a glorious record, a must for all lovers of great singing. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

A great introduction to the art of Placido Domingo.......2007-07-04

Placido Domingo, of course, is one of the finest tenors of the latter part of the 20th century. This 2 CD set well captures his talent, showing the range of his singing. We hear cuts from Puccini and Verdi to Tchaikovsky and Wagner to Strauss and Handel. And even a traditional Spanish sung and some operetta thrown in for good measure!

This is a wonderful introduction to his artistry, and shows that he can sing well across a variety of styles and eras. Let's sample some cuts:

"Il mio Tesoro" (from Mozart's Don Giovanni) is a difficult aria to sing well. And Domingo is up to the challenge. He displays a smooth and rich voice. His is one of those distinctive tenor voices, like Tucker's or Pavarotti's, that is quickly recognizable. This is, as noted, a challenging piece and Domingo handles it well, showing off considerable vocal agility in the process.

From the same opera, "La ci darem la mano," a sweet duet with, in this instance, soprano Susan Graham. This seductive work is sung well by both parties and is a ravishing version.

From Puccini's "Tosca," "Recondita armonia." At the close, his voice rises above orchestra and chorus. Overall, well and richly sung.

And now for something very different. . . The "Forging Scene" from Siegfried. One may not think of Domingo as a heldentenor, but he does a serviceable job here. His voice sometimes appears a bit light, but, overall, he does estimable work. He catches Siegfried's spirit as he forges the shattered remains of his father's sword, "Nothung." When he sings the name of his sword at the close, with the leitmotif ringing out from the orchestra, it is an affecting moment.

Then, "Celeste Aida" (from Verdi's opera). A stentorian voice well deployed to meet the challenges of this wonderful aria. Some tenors scoop as they move from those lower to the higher notes; Domingo's voice is well controlled here. The final high note is well hit.

Strauss (Junior's) "Ach, wie so herrlich zu schau'n" is a romp! A fun piece and well sung by Domingo. He demonstrates, as before, excellent vocal agility.

Lehar's "O Vaterland" is also fun. It is a sprightly tune sprightly sung.

Finally, he ends the second CD with a traditional Spanish tune--"La Golondrina." He does not overpower this work with operatic technique. He sings it well and affectingly.

So, all in all, if one wants a good introduction to Placido Domingo's vocal oeuvre, this is a very strong starting point.

This is really the best........2007-05-16

I have many of Mr. Domingo's recordings but I really love this one. He seems to get better with age. Some of the songs are on some of my other recordings but they seem new and fresh on this CD. I really think this is the best of Placido Domingo.

If you like Placido at all, you must have this CD........2005-04-06

Placido Domingo has been around for so long, it is easy to take this great artist for granted. I totally agree with the previous reviews of this album; I can also say that I had the opportunity to hear him live in concert on April 2, 2005 in Biloxi, Mississippi, and his voice is still stunning. His opening aria that night was the prayer from El Cid, "O Souverain," which he dedicated to the memory of Pope John Paul II. This piece is the 8th selection on CD 1, and is from a 1997 live recording. His thrilling finish blew me away when I listened to it the first time, and and the crowd on the recording reacts the same way the Mississippi audience did when we heard him. That aria alone is worth the price of this CD set.

Rare And Great Domingo Classics.......2005-03-08

EMI's "The Very Best Of" series is a wonderful way for the opera lover/novice or even connoisseur in training to get acquainted with the great singers of opera in the 20th century. It is possible that in a few years, the great singers of today (from the 90's up to now and further into the future) will grace the album covers of The Very Best Of...The Very Best Of Renee Fleming, The Very Best Of Salvatore Licitra, etc. This is not exactly the best of Domingo. It is more of a collection of rare and wonderfully expressive arias from operas that range all over the map- Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, Meyerbeer, Gounod, Massenet. Now, here's the reason why so many people adore Domingo, myself included - Domingo is a Renaissance Opera Tenor. He has sung almost every tenor role in the opera universe. Even if he is, to some, the "tenor who sang with Pavoratti in the three tenors" he proves he's the strongest of the bunch, the most dedicated, the most prolific and most artistic. Domingo has a beautiful voice, with secure high register and dark, masculine middle chest voice and exciting dramatic electricity! He's sung more than 50 operas, in addition operetta and Spanish Zarzuela (the Spanish equivalent to musicals or operetta which is where he got started and his parents sung in Zarzuela) and he has also recorded Spanish mainstream love songs for Latin audiences. A winner of Grammies, an actor in movies about operas that he starred in (Tosca, La Traviata, Otello) and the most active tenor on tv broadcasts, he is just incredible and powerful.
He is a great force in opera.

Even in his old age, he does'nt seem to be slowing down or call it quits. Recent performances (2000-2005) include Eugene Onegin, the lead in Queen of Spades, Rasputin in Debra Dratell's Nicolas and Alexandra, Idomeneo and his next role Parsifal. He is the singular tenor who mastered every repertoire- Mozart (Don Ottavio, Tamino...unfortunately Domingo as Don Giovanni is a miscast because he is too noble and romantic and GOOD to be a bad guy)..to Puccini heros (Mario Cavaradossi in Tosca, Dick Johnson in Fanciualla Del West, Rodolfo in Boheme, Pinkerton in Madame Butterfly, Calaf in Turandot) Verdi heroes (Radames in Aida, Don Carlos, Stiffelio, etc) to the French repertoire...Gounod (Faust, Romeo) Meyerbeer heroes, Massenet hero (Des Grieux, Le Cid) and Saint Saens (Samson) the list goes on and on. When this man dies, an era will die with him. His legend will live on because he will leave behind dozens of albums, movies and memories......

A real Bobby Dazzler.......2004-02-19

Fans of Mr. Domingo would be lucky to find a selection of music that more profoundly explores and exhibits the diversity of his vocal ability and interpretation than is offered on these two discs. Delicious displays of Mozart, ringing renditions of the most challenging high Italian roles, powerfully rounded accounts of some of the heavy German/Russian repetoir, and some noticably nostalgic songs from the light Spannish tradition provide an impressive catalogue of the great man's rich, focussed, technically impecable and singularly beguiling vocal talent. Those who are yet to form an opinion on any particular genre of the operatic spectrum would do well to start here, so eclectic is this album. Also, you might be reassured to know that, should you become an admirer of P.D.'s talent as a result of listening to this compilation, (it is difficult to resist), you will have no trouble finding other recordings by him. A record-breaker with more than 110 roles to his repetoir (40 is a respected total for an opera singer), he is the most recorded tenor in history, leaving more than 80 complete accounts to date of operas in the Italian, French, German and Russian traditions.

Puccini and Pasta: A Romantic Italian Feast for Your Ears

Average customer rating:

A great intro for ... opera fans
A great introduction to Puccini
Delightfully fun album; Opera for YOU!
Arrows straight to your heart.
A great first taste of opera's famous arias

Puccini and Pasta: A Romantic Italian Feast for Your Ears

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Caballe, Montserrat | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Freni, Mirella | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Chopin and Champagne: Set Your Mood for Romance
Tchaikovsky At Tea Time: A Refreshing Blend For Body And Spirit
Liszt for Lovers: Piano Dreams of Love and Passion
Rachmaninoff for Romance: Passionate Music for Love and Desire
Vivaldi for Valentines: Romantic Interludes for the One You Love

ASIN: B0000041FP
Release Date: 1996-08-13

Tracks:

Turandot: No One Shall Sleep
Gianni Schicchi: O My Dear Daddy
La Boheme: Your Tiny Hand Is Frozen
La Boheme: They Call Me Mimi
La Boheme: O Gentle Girl
La Boheme: Musetta's Waltz Song
La Boheme: Whence Happily She Came
La Boheme: Mimi's Farewell
Manon Lescaut: I Have Never Met A Woman Like Her
Madame Butterfly: One Fine Day
The Girl Of The Golden West: Let Her Believe I Am Free
TOSCA: Strange Harmony
TOSCA: Love Duet, Act I, Part I
TOSCA: Love Duet, Act I, Part II
TOSCA: For Love And Art
TOSCA: The Stars Were Shining
La rondine: Doretta's Dream
Madame Butterfly: Love Duet, Act I, Part II

Customer Reviews:

A great intro for ... opera fans.......2002-02-14

I adore Italian opera -- particularly Puccini. That makes this CD a real gem. All my favorite arias and duets are here, sung by well-known and talented artists.

If you're new to opera, you can't go wrong with this album. Puccini was the Spielberg of his time, and his work still has a lot of popular appeal. (It's much easier to like "La Boheme" than Wagner's Ring cycle -- that's for sure!)

If you have a lot of opera already, you probably have most of these songs. Still, if you want them all in one place, this is a worthy buy.

A great introduction to Puccini.......1999-09-23

This disc exposed me to the wonderful world of Puccini's melodious opera. It piqued my interest and turned me into a Puccini lover. Listening to full opera recordings has only solidified that love.

Delightfully fun album; Opera for YOU!.......1999-04-30

Opera unfortunatley has the reputation for being uppity and pretentious, but this album shows that Opera can be fun and entertaining. This album is SUPERB for just listening to as you work, eat, or sleep. Especially if you've recently been turned on to Opera by Mr. Andrea Bocelli, you'll enjoy the rich diversity of this album. You know the tenor; how about soprano, etc? Grab a bowl of spaghetti, pour a glass of wine (or grape juice) and enjoy "Puccini & Pasta"!

Arrows straight to your heart........1999-03-28

These beautiful arias will give you goose-bumps from head to toe, pierce your life's stress-tempered armor, and home straight into your heart. Bravo!!!

A great first taste of opera's famous arias.......1999-03-04

Think you might like to try some opera? The arias on this disc are fabulous! Sylvia McNair has a voice like an angel. A must have for a beginning opera collection.

Average customer rating:

My kids love this!
I was dissapointed
555 stars!
Best music for Young Children!
wonderful fun

Multicultural Songs for Children
Ella Jenkins
Manufacturer: Smithsonian Folkways
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music

Educational | Children's Music | Styles | Music

Folk Music | Children's Music | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

You Sing a Song and I'll Sing a Song
Sharing Cultures With Ella Jenkins
Songs Children Love to Sing
Jambo and Other Call & Response Songs and Chants
Play Your Instruments (And Make a Pretty Sound)

Product Features:

MULTI-CULTURAL CHILDRENS SONGS CD

ASIN: B000001DOE
Release Date: 1995-10-17

Tracks:

The World is Big the World Is Small
Hello
Greetings in Many Languages
Jambo
Tahboo
On Safari
Counting in Swahili
Mexican Handclapping Song
Dulce, Dulce
In Trinidad
Caney Mi Macaro
A Yodeling Song
Dredle, Dredle, Dredle
Rabbi Teaches ABCs/English ABC Song
Dance Tunes from Many Lands
Eh-un-lan-weh-seh-un-lan (Greeting in Arabic)
Balloon Song
Maori Chant
Play Your Instrs
May-ree Mack
We Are Native American Tribes
A Neighborhood is a Friendly Place
Thank you in Many Languages

Product Description

Recognized throughout the world as a "Rhythm Specialist", Ella Jenkins has entertained and taught thousands of children through her music. Includes "The World Is Big The World Is Small", "Hello", "Greetings In Many Languages", "Jambo", "Tahboo", "On Safari", "Counting In Swahili", "Mexican Handclapping Song", "Dulce, Dulce", "In Trinidad", "Caney Mi Macaro", "A Yodeling Song", "Dredle, Dredle, Dredle", "Rabbi Teaches ABC's / English ABC Song", "Dance Tunes From Many Lands", "Eh-un-lan-weh-seh-un-lan (Greeting in Arabic)", "Balloon Song", "Maori Chant", "Play Your Instruments", "May-ree Mack", "We Are Native American Tribes", "A Neighborhood Is A Friendly Place", and "Thank You In Many Languages".

Amazon.com

Long before Raffi ever picked up a guitar, Ella Jenkins was pioneering the field of children's music. Her example of short, well-played folk songs that neither talked over kids' heads nor condescended to them remains the model for children's-music performers everywhere. Long before "multicultural" became a buzzword in educational and arts circles, Jenkins was drawing her material from Europe, Africa, Asia, Latin America, and her own African American neighborhood in South Chicago. She celebrates her 40th anniversary as a professional entertainer with the anthology, Multicultural Children's Songs, which collects 23 songs from a dozen different Folkways albums onto a single CD. She is the Pete Seeger of children's music, and this is a good introduction to her work. --Geoffrey Himes

Customer Reviews:

My kids love this!.......2004-02-26

My mother played this album for my kids (ages 5 & 2) in the car during our recent week-long visit. They loved it! We listened to it all week long! Ms. Jenkins introduces many of the songs, and there are children singing along with her on many of the tracks. It is as if you are listening in on a music workshop she is conducting for children. I couldn't believe how quickly my kids began to sing along, especially since many of the songs are not in English. My kids often prefer music with which they are already familiar, especially when away from home, but they took to this recording immediately. This is certainly an album we will want in our collection!

I was dissapointed.......2004-02-06

After reading the glowing reviews of this CD I had high expectations. I had to come back here to say that this is one of the worst internet purchases I have ever made. The songs were slow & overly simplistic, as well as dated. I listened to this with my husband and our 5 year old daughter. There was one song on here that our daughter liked, the rest about bored us all to tears. It was a test just for us to endure to listen to them all. I don't understand the fondness some have for this CD, so buyer beware.

555 stars!.......2002-01-29

I love Ella Jenkins, and I love this compilation. The way she has of bringing music to so many children makes me respect her so much. I use this CD and its music in my music classes and the students meet it with incredible enthusiasm. My own children ask for this when we travel in the car. Buy this CD. You won't be sorry!

Best music for Young Children!.......2001-10-31

WONDERFUL FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES

wonderful fun.......2000-05-22

My 5 year old daughter LOVES this music. Ella Jenkins gives brief introductions to songs so you get a sense of place and culture even before the beat begins. The songs are made for singing along, you can't help but clap and tap. this tape is superb.

Carlo Bergonzi - The Sublime Voice ~ 40 Tracks from the Legendary Tenor

Average customer rating:

Complete Solti/Bergonzi Ballo Released
Another dazzled listener
Sublime indeed
The sublime vocal artist
Blown away!

Carlo Bergonzi - The Sublime Voice ~ 40 Tracks from the Legendary Tenor
Giuseppe Verdi , Giacomo Puccini , Ruggiero Leoncavallo , Pietro Mascagni , Amilcare Ponchielli , Tullio Serafin , Herbert von Karajan , Georg Solti , Rafael Kubelik , Nello Santi , Gianandrea Gavazzeni , Lamberto Gardelli , Sir John Pritchard , Carlo Bergonzi , Renata Tebaldi , Ettore Bastianini , Fiorenza Cossotto , Enzo Sordello , Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau , Tugomir Franc , Renata Scotto , Libero Arbace , Fernando Corena , Birgit Nilsson , Giulietta Simionato , Sylvia Stahlman , Joan Sutherland , Dora Carral , and Piero de Palma
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Carlo Bergonzi - Italian Songs ~ Bellini · Verdi · Danza · Tosti · Donizetti · Rossini · Mascagni · Puccini
The Very Best of Franco Corelli
The Very Best of Beniamino Gigli
The Very Best of Giuseppe di Stefano
The Very Best of Nicolai Gedda

ASIN: B00004C8TH
Release Date: 2001-06-12

Tracks:

La Boheme: Che Gelida Manina - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Rodolfo Gianna D'Angelo/Ettore Bastianini
La Boheme: O Soave Fanciulla - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Rodolfo Gianna D'Angelo/Ettore Bastianini
La Boheme: Mimi E Tanto Malata - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Rodolfo Gianna D'Angelo/Ettore Bastianini
La Boheme: Dunque E Proprio Finita! - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Rodolfo Gianna D'Angelo/Ettore Bastianini
La Boheme: In Un Coupe?... O Mimi, Tu Piu Non Torni - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Rodolfo Gianna D'Angelo/Ettore Bastianini
Madama Butterfly: Dovunque Al Mondo - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Fiorenza Cossotto/Enzo Sordello
Madama Butterfly: Vogliatemi Bene - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Fiorenza Cossotto/Enzo Sordello
Madama Butterfly: Io So Che Alle Sue Pene - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Fiorenza Cossotto/Enzo Sordello
Madama Butterfly: Addio, Fiorito Asil - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi/Fiorenza Cossotto/Enzo Sordello
Cavalleria Rusticana: Ah! Io Vedi, Che Hai Tu Detto? - Carlo Bergonzi/Fiorenza Cossotto
Pagliacci: Recitar!... Vesti La Giubba - Carlo Bergonzi
Don Carlo: Dio, Che Nell'alma Infondere - Carlo Bergonzi/Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau/Tugomir Franc/Chor Of The ROHCG
Rigoletto: Questa O Quella - Carlo Bergonzi/Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau/Renata Scotto/Fiorenza Cossotto
Rigoletto: Ella Mi Fu Rapita! - Carlo Bergonzi/Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau/Renata Scotto/Fiorenza Cossotto
Rigoletto: Parmi Veder Le Lagrime - Carlo Bergonzi/Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau/Renata Scotto/Fiorenza Cossotto
Rigoletto: Possente Amor Mi Chiama - Carlo Bergonzi/Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau/Renata Scotto/Fiorenza Cossotto
Rigoletto: La Donna E Mobile - Carlo Bergonzi/Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau/Renata Scotto/Fiorenza Cossotto
Rigoletto: Bella Figlia Dell'amore - Carlo Bergonzi/Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau/Renata Scotto/Fiorenza Cossotto
Otello: Dio! Mi Potevi Scagliar - Carlo Bergonzi

Tracks:

Un Ballo In Maschera: La Rivedra Nell'estasi - Carlo Bergonzi/Birgit Nilsson/Giulietta Simionato/Sylvia Stahlman/Fernando Corena/Libero Arbace...
Un Ballo In Maschera: Di' Tu Se Fedele - Carlo Bergonzi/Birgit Nilsson/Giulietta Simionato/Sylvia Stahlman/Fernando Corena/Libero Arbace...
Un Ballo In Maschera: E' Scherzo Od E Follia - Carlo Bergonzi/Birgit Nilsson/Giulietta Simionato/Sylvia Stahlman/Fernando Corena/Libero Arbace...
Un Ballo In Maschera: Teco Io Sto - Carlo Bergonzi/Birgit Nilsson/Giulietta Simionato/Sylvia Stahlman/Fernando Corena/Libero Arbace...
Un Ballo In Maschera: Forse La Soglia Attinse - Carlo Bergonzi/Birgit Nilsson/Giulietta Simionato/Sylvia Stahlman/Fernando Corena/Libero Arbace...
Un Ballo In Maschera: Ma Se M'e Forza Perderti - Carlo Bergonzi/Birgit Nilsson/Giulietta Simionato/Sylvia Stahlman/Fernando Corena/Libero Arbace...
Tosca: E Lucevan Le Stelle - Carlo Bergonzi
Manon Lescaut: Donna Non Vidi Mai - Carlo Bergonzi
Aida: Se Quel Guerrier Io Fossie!... Celeste Aida - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi
Aida: Pur Ti Riveggo, Mia Dolce Aida - Carlo Bergonzi/Renata Tebaldi
La Gioconda: Cielo E Mar! - Carlo Bergonzi
La Traviata: Un Di Felice, Eterea - Carlo Bergonzi/Joan Sutherland/Dora Carral/Piero De Palma/Chor Del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
La Traviata: Lunge Da Lei - Carlo Bergonzi/Joan Sutherland/Dora Carral/Piero De Palma/Chor Del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
La Traviata: De' Miei Bollenti Spiriti - Carlo Bergonzi/Joan Sutherland/Dora Carral/Piero De Palma/Chor Del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
La Traviata: O Mio Rimorso! - Carlo Bergonzi/Joan Sutherland/Dora Carral/Piero De Palma/Chor Del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
La Traviata: Parigi, O Cara - Carlo Bergonzi/Joan Sutherland/Dora Carral/Piero De Palma/Chor Del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
Il Trovatore: Deserto Sulla Terra - Carlo Bergonzi/Ettore Bastianini/Chor Del Teatro All Scalla Di Milano
Il Trovatore: Ah! Si, Ben Mio - Carlo Bergonzi/Ettore Bastianini/Chor Del Teatro All Scalla Di Milano
Il Trovatore: Di Quella Pira - Carlo Bergonzi/Ettore Bastianini/Chor Del Teatro All Scalla Di Milano
Adriana Lecouvreur: La Dolcissima Effigie - Carlo Bergonzi
Adriana Lecouvreur: L'anima Ho Stanca - Carlo Bergonzi

Customer Reviews:

Complete Solti/Bergonzi Ballo Released.......2007-04-24

No need to add to what the other reviewers say about this five-star collection. I am writing to alert readers that on April 10, 2007 Decca released the complete recording of Un Ballo in Maschera with Bergonzi, Nilsson, Stahlman, Simionato, and MacNeil, conducted by Solti. To read my detailed review of that release, bring the product up on Amazon.

Another dazzled listener.......2006-12-12

I had to write the same thing for the Sony Classical recording of a Bergonzi recital of Italian songs--this is simply one of the most passionate and intelligent singers I have ever heard, and he sounds as good or better now than when I first played one of his records 25 years ago. Anyone who has the slightest shred of interest in the operatic voice should own this collection from one of the truest and most passionate tenors in recorded history.

Sublime indeed.......2006-05-31

I first came to appreciate the artistry that is Carlo Bergonzi on his magnificnt recording of Butterly with Renata Scotto. Later I got the privelege of hearing him several times in person. He was among the most intelligent of tenors. He knew his voice well and how to use that voice to convey the drama and music in a wonderful combination.

If you appreciate Bergozni, this recording will remind you why. If you are not familiar with "The Tenor's Tenor", you will find out why he has that title. However, in addition to the magnificent Bergonzi, you also get wonderful performances from partners such as Tebaldi, Birgit Nilsson, Sutherland, Scotto, Fischer-Dieskau and Cossotto.

I can only find fault with a couple of the selections. First and foremost is that Bergonzi should never have even attempted the Dio Mi Potevi from Otello. That is the only performance that is in anyway subpar. It is unlike any other performance on this recording (or any other time I heard Bergonzi) -- forced. I would have far preferred a version of Una Furtiva Lagrima, which Bergonzi could sing the sock off of. Or given the presence of E Lucevan Stelle, couldn't they have included Recondita Armonia instead? The only other very minor complaint is the pairing with Nilsson . The duet is fine until the very end. On the final high C you can't even hear Bergonzi due to the sheer size of Nilsson's voice. The music and performance of both are wonderful, but a perfect Alfredo and perfect Brunnhilde do not necessarily mesh. But that is a minor quibble. Aside from a disappearing Carlo, it is quite a wonderful performance.

On the plus side a few things particularly stand out. To me, this is simply the best recording ever of Cielo e Mar. The sections with Tebaldi (Boheme and Butterfly and Aida in particuar) are fabulous. Other standouts include the quartet from Rigoletto with Scotto, Cossotto and Fischer-Dieskau and the Cavelleria duet with Cossotto.

All in all, this is, with a few minor exceptions, a magnificent collection of the best of Carlo Bergonzi.

The sublime vocal artist.......2003-08-15

I have seen most of the great tenors of the past 50 years at the Met: Corelli, Tucker, Vickers, Gedda, Pavarotti, Domingo, etc.. For me, Bergonzi over all, was the superior Italian Opera tenor. His legato, agility, breath control, tasteful musicianship, diction, was superior to most of the great tenors. He was outstanding as Nemorino and Rhadames; Edgardo and Alvaro etc.. This CD shows him at his very best, which is a joy to hear. This CD is a must vocal lesson for any aspiring young tenor, as Carlo Bergonzi is a master singer.

Blown away!.......2003-01-20

This album brings Carlo Bregonzi to life. This is a view from all angels. He commands such an array of singing styles.
No one brings the great composers to life the way Carlo Bergonzi does.

Tracks:

Sweet And Lovely
Let's Fall In Love
Makin' Whoopee
That Old Feeling
I Remember You
Moonlight Serenade
Gone With The Wind
Can't We Be Friends?
Out Of This World - Ella Fitzgerlad
My Old Flame
East Of The Sun (And West Of The Moon)
Lullaby Of Broadway

Customer Reviews:

"Arlen, Mercer and Frank DeVol ~ Ella!".......2003-11-07

Ella's recordings could fill an entire library ~ her performances are flawless with each tune more satisfying than the previous one. From the mid '30s we've come to enjoy "The First Lady of Song" ~ Verve Records has released for the first time on CD "Sings Sweet Songs for Swingers", originally released on LP on November of 1958 featuring 12 unforgettable tracks that will leave no doubt about the best of the best female vocalist ever to record and perform. What is so nice about this collection is she can change tempos on a dime and never miss a beat.

Ella's style is so timeless as you're instantly amazed by her voice ~ take for instance the tracks "SWEET AND LOVELY", "LET'S FALL IN LOVE" and "MAKIN' WHOOPEE" with absolutely to die for arrangements by the legendary Frank DeVol ~ swingin' standards that work perfectly. "GONE WITH THE WIND", as only Ella can do justice ~ "MOONLIGHT SERENADE", an old Glenn Miller classic that Ella completely remodels and it works ~ "CAN'T WE BE FRIENDS", this time solo but previously with Pop Armstrong ~ "LULLABY OF BROADWAY", another favorite from the past and our lady of song makes it her own ~ but the highlight in my book is "OUT OF THIS WORLD", from the pen of Arlen and Mercer has always stuck in my mind, ever since I first heard it.

This album and her voice is truly one of a kind ~ she sang with such sweet emotion. The music is magical, it brightens my spirits when I listen as she gave the world her talent...always in a postive mood. Ella is truly one of the best vocalists ever to grace this planet ~ what a great lady ~ there is only one ELLA and you've gotta love her!

Total Time: 40:05 on 12 Tracks ~ Verve Records 000076202 ~ (9/23/2003)

A CLASSIC RELEASE AT LAST ON CD!.......2003-09-24

Ella fans, clamor and quake no more! This is one of the last albums we've been waiting for on CD (only Hello Dolly remains unreleased; keep the faith!) Here is Ella in absolutely stunning form, and abetted by the versatile Frank DeVol orchestra in the late 50's, with a folder full of classic gems of the Great American Songbook. There's no way you can miss. While half of the tracks could be considered "covers" (Ella would either re-record them later or had done them previously), there are a few surprises here, including the fooler of the album, the classic Johnny Mercer penned I REMEMBER YOU, with it's slow simmering opening verse giving way to a flag waving swinger. Definitely a different and swingin' treatment that might not work for anyone else. Her later version with Nelson Riddle in the 60's would be more true to the usual renditions of this classic, but this version makes for a good alternative. SWEET AND LOVELY, a done-to-death standard takes on new life here and the arrangement is crisp and swinging as well. Ella is in wonderful form and with Harry "Sweets" Edison's fills, this is the perfect opener to the album. GONE WITH THE WIND was one that Ella would carry through until the end of her career. She used it early on, in concerts, and covered it again here.
A lighter version of Lady Day's "prelude to no kiss", MY OLD FLAME also shines as one of this set's standouts (was that a Plas Johnson sax solo at the break?) It's a shame that we don't have complete personnel listings included, but no complaints here; just thrilled to have this one on CD at last! And to be universally correct, we have a dreamy, straight forward version of MOONLIGHT SERENADE, and an easy going version of EAST OF THE SUN (And West Of The Moon) that grows steadily into a swinger. Yes, Ella has sung and swung for the swingers over the years, but this album just endears her more to we adoring fans.