Verdi: I Due Foscari / Ricciarelli, Carreras, Rame

I due Foscari is another neglected early Verdi opera. Like Masnadieri and Giovanna D'Arco it has many beautiful duets and arias. We are very fortunate that the superb maestro Gardelli chose the young but promising artists Carreras and Ricciarelli to record the main roles. Besides the fact that they are in perfect vocal condition (this was recorded in 1976, before they started singing heavier roles), they both are excellent early Verdi performers. She sings a difficult soprano role, full of cabalettas and high notes but does everything to perfection! The quiet parts are moving (she was a good actress) while the faster sections exciting, enriched with her golden tone. The same can be said about Jose Carreras who had one of the most beautiful tenor voices, pure velvet! He sings and feels every phrase. The show goes on with the experienced, rich-voiced Piero Capuccilli and the new bass sensation of that time, Samuel Ramey. This recording is in my opinion flawless so if you are thinking of listening to some less popular Verdi music try this set. You won't be disappointed!

Price: $45.98