Gioachino Rossini (1792–1868) was the first of the great 19th century Italian opera composers. He brought opera into the public consciousness and even today his music still rings true. The Lone Ranger rides out to the overture from William Tell (8.550236) and Bugs Bunny confuses Elmer Fudd to the music of the Barber of Seville (8.660027–29). His situational operas of love found in disguise, guardians misled and confused, and other humorous situations are enhanced by his fine dramatic art. With few exceptions, Rossini’s operas have largely been set aside for the greater interest in his overtures (8.550236).
Here is the perfect introduction to Rossini’s world of operas. The latest addition to the collection is this month’s release, Mosé in Egitto (8.660220–21).
“The musical performance at Bad Wildbad is vibrant with well-sprung rhythms and forward momentum under the baton of the Australian Brad Cohen who is proving himself to be an outstanding Rossinian. The engineers have captured a clean sound with the soloists and orchestra in a clear natural perspective…”
– MusicWeb International on Maometto Secondo (8.660149–51)
