Gaetano Donizetti: Rosmonda (Opera Rara Audio CD)

Opera Rara Donizetti CD

Renee Fleming, Bruce Ford, Nelly Miricioiu, Alastair Miles, Diana Montague, Geoffrey Mitchell Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, Conductor - David Parry

Renee Fleming’s remarkable vocal technique is ideally suited to the role of Rosmonda, who battles with Eleanor of Aquitaine, (Nelly Miricioiu) for the love of Henry II (Bruce Ford). Donizetti reserves some deliciously florid vocal writing for Rosmonda, allowing Fleming to display the luscious tone for which she is so admired. This disc contains all of Rosmonda’s music, with her big Act 2 aria as the final item. Don’t miss Donizetti’s powerfully tragic duet for two sopranos, playing one diva off against the other.

The senstational American soprano demonstrates her well-known skills as a superb Donizettian. One of the best of the composer's neglected operas still awaiting a stage revival.


'One of the most lovely voices to be heard in our time' - John Steane (reviewing this recording), The Gramophone