Dive into the rich tapestry of classical opera with Domenico Cimarosa's "Cleopatra," a masterful recording released in 2018 by VDC Classique. This album, spanning over an hour and twenty-five minutes, showcases the brilliance of Cimarosa's compositional genius, offering a comprehensive journey through his dramatic opera in two acts. The album features the Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra under the direction of Simone Perugini, delivering a performance that is both historically informed and vividly expressive.
"Cleopatra" was originally premiered in 1789 and is a testament to Cimarosa's skill in crafting intricate and engaging musical narratives. The opera is divided into meticulously structured scenes, each bringing to life the dramatic and lyrical depth of the story. From the stirring "Ouverture" to the poignant arias and dynamic ensembles, every track is a testament to Cimarosa's mastery of the classical style. Highlights include the dramatic "Se nembo di guerra" and the lyrical beauty of "Spiran soavi," each showcasing the orchestra's virtuosity and Perugini's keen interpretive insights.
This recording is not just a collection of songs but a vivid portrayal of Cimarosa's operatic vision. The detailed and expressive performances bring to life the intricacies of the score, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are a seasoned opera lover or a curious newcomer, "Cleopatra" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the enduring appeal of Cimarosa's music.
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene I: Se nembo di guerraDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini, Choeur de la Cabale des Devots
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 2: Signor...Domenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 3: La veggo, l'ascoltoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 4: SinfoniaDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 5: BalloDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 6: Spiran soaviDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Choeur de la Cabale des Devots
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 7: Compiti i voti suoiDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Nicholas Porrington
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 8: Ah, che vano è il mio sospettoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 9: Arresta il passoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Nicholas Porrington, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 10: Ah, se tu vuoiDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 1: Ah, ritorni il bel serenoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Nicholas Porrington, Choeur de la Cabale des Devots
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 2: Da me partiteDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini, Nicholas Porrington
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 3: Ah, ritorna al primo affettoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 4: Ecco ciò ch'io temeaDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 5: Vieni, l'onor t'additaDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Laurie Farrel-Smith
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 6: MarciaDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 7: Affrettiamci, Signor...Domenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith, July Wason
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 8: Da quel labroDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 9: Una strada v'è ancorDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith, Nicholas Porrington
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 10: Sento in sì dolce istanteDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith, Nicholas Porrington, Choeur de la Cabale des Devots