Dive into the rich world of Italian opera with Rolando Villazón's captivating album, "Italian Opera Arias," released in 2004 under the Warner Classics label. This exquisite collection features 15 iconic arias that showcase the breadth and depth of Rolando Villazón's vocal prowess and artistic sensitivity. From the tender and melancholic to the powerful and dramatic, each aria is a testament to Villazón's ability to delve into the heart of each character and bring their stories to life.
The album opens with a beautiful aria from Cilèa's "L'Arlesiana" and seamlessly transitions through masterpieces by Donizetti, Verdi, Puccini, and Mascagni. Villazón's renditions are marked by a rare "morbidezza," a softness and delicacy in his delivery that harks back to the golden age of opera singing. His impeccable training is evident in every note, as he navigates the complex melodies and harmonies with ease and grace.
Accompanied by the Munich Radio Orchestra under the skilled direction of Marcello Viotti, the musical arrangements are as stunning as Villazón's vocals. The orchestral support is rich and nuanced, perfectly complementing Villazón's voice and enhancing the overall listening experience.
Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Italian Opera Arias" offers a compelling introduction to some of the most beloved works in the Italian opera canon. With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening, immersing yourself in the timeless beauty of Italian opera.
Cilèa: L'Arlesiana, Act 2: "È la solita storia del pastore" (Federico)Francesco Cilea, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Donizetti: Il duca d'Alba, Act 4 Scene 1: "Inosservato penetrava in questo … Angelo casto e bel" (Marcello)Gaetano Donizetti, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Donizetti: L'elisir d'amore, Act 1 Scene 1: No. 1b, Cavatina, "Quanto è bella, quanto è cara!" (Nemorino)Gaetano Donizetti, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor, Act 3 Scene 7: No. 9, Aria cantabile, "Tombe degli avi miei … Fra poco a me ricovero" (Edgardo)Gaetano Donizetti, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Verdi: I Lombardi alla prima crociata, Act 2 Scene 2: No. 7, Cavatina, "La mia letizia infondere" (Oronte)Giuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Verdi: Don Carlo: "Io l'ho perduta lo la vidi" (Don Carlo)Giuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Verdi: Macbeth, Act 4 Scene 1: No. 18, Scena ed Aria, "O figli, o figli miei! … Ah, la paterna mano" (MacDuff)Giuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Verdi: Rigoletto, Act 2 Scene 1: No. 8, Scena ed Aria, "Ella mi fu rapita … Parmi veder le lagrime" (Duca)Giuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Verdi: Rigoletto, Act III Scene 2: La donna è mobileGiuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra
Verdi: La traviata, Act 2 Scene 1: No. 4, Scena ed Aria, "Lunge da lei per me … De' miei bollenti spiriti … O mio rimorso!" (Alfredo)Giuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra
Puccini: La Bohème, Act I: Che gelida maninaGiacomo Puccini, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra
Puccini: Tosca, Act 3 Scene 2: "E lucevan le stelle" (Cavaradossi)Giacomo Puccini, Marcello Viotti, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Mascagni: L'amico Fritz, Act 3 Scene 2: "Anche tu, Beppe, giungi a torturarmi … O amore, o bella luce del core" (Fritz)Pietro Mascagni, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Mascagni: Nerone, Act 3 Scene 1: "Vergini Muse … Quando al soave anelito" (Nerone)Pietro Mascagni, Rolando Villazón, Marcello Viotti, Munich Radio Orchestra, Muenchner Rundfunkorchester
Rolando Villazón is a celebrated Franco-Mexican tenor renowned for his emotive performances and remarkable versatility on the operatic stage. Born in Mexico, Villazón has made a significant impact in the world of opera, captivating audiences with his powerful voice and charismatic presence. Beyond his operatic achievements, Villazón is also a accomplished stage director, author, and a prominent figure in radio and television. His journey from his early beginnings in Mexico to his international success is a testament to his dedication and passion for the arts. Villazón's influence extends beyond performing, as he also serves as an artistic director, shaping the future of opera with his visionary leadership. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, Rolando Villazón continues to inspire and entertain, making him a true icon in the world of opera.
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Rolando Villazón
