Vincenzo Bellini: Norma (Arthaus DVD) (2-disc set)

This production of Bellini’s famous masterpiece Norma was extraordinary in many aspects. Staged by Italian director and filmmaker Roberto Andó at the Teatro Regio in Parma, it gathered international stars like American soprano June Anderson and shooting star Daniela Barcellona as well as Russian bass lldar Abdrazakov.

Audience and critics alike enthusiastically received the remarkable orchestral accompaniment. Fabio Biondi’s transparent conducting and the authentic performance practice of Europa Galante illuminated the musical structure of Bellini’s opera and provided a new perspective on early 19th century opera. Playing on historic instruments, the ensemble’s velvety tone and transparent playing enabled a constant musical exchange between orchestra and singers, which complemented the exquisite voices perfectly. June Anderson has long been considered one of the leading sopranos in the bel canto repertoire. Her lyric voice shines particularly brightly against the softer sound texture of historic instruments, thus adding a rare flexibility to the dramatic soprano part of Norma. This is especially palpable in the famous aria „Casta diva, che in argenti“, one of the gems of Italian song.