Amazon.com: The 17th-century Italian art song repertory traditionally reserved for novice singers is given new life via Bartoli's artistry. With impeccable diction and evocative phrasing, she captures every innuendo of these simple, but passionate, pieces. No two repetitive phrases are alike; she chisels every line into a landscape of interpretive magnificence. Scarlatti's simple "O Cessate di Piagarmi" becomes a testament of innocent pain and plaintiveness. Giordano's "Caro Mio Ben" is transformed into a tender cry for love. All embellishments are imaginative and well executed. Accompaniment by György Fischer is equally appealing, sensitive and precise. Every singer questing for the art of singing should study these. --Barbara Eisner Bayer
Customer Reviews
Average Rating:
Rating: - From the simple to the sublime
Cecilia Bartoli may not be the finest mezzo-soprano extant but few would doubt her exceptional artistry and professionalism. In "Se tu m'ami", she transforms simple, even primitive, melodies into beautiful, ... Read More
Rating: - Awe inspiring
Even for the non opera afficianado, these beautiful songs, rendered with exquisite style and grace and meticulous accompaniment,make for enthralling listening. I listen to this album more than any other I have ... Read More
Rating: - Bartoli masterclass in early italian songs
This disc is a perfect example for young singers studying from the 24 or 26 Italian Songs and Arias and the like. Cecilia Bartoli posesses a beautiful voice.
Rating: - useful
I feel like recommending this compilation to neophites wanting to listen to some old arias to learn if they like this genre and to singing students:
Ms Bartoli's voice is not beautiful, nor perfect when heard ... Read More
Rating: - Cecilia Bartoli at her best.
A great singer is one who dedicates singing to the text itself instead to himself/herself.
This is achieved 100% by Ms. Bartoli in this earlier album of hers. The recordings here cannot be termed otherwise than ... Read More
- From the simple to the sublime