Classical Music Reviews

By Dave Regneri

Rossini Heroines (London 436075)

Cecilia Bartoli

This year marks the 200th Anniversary of Gioacchino Rossini's birth. During this century, no one singer has done more to advance the popularity of Rossini's music than Marilyn Horne. As Horne winds down her career, her heir apparent has become Cecilia Bartoli. She has a rich, warm, full voice that is perfectly suited for the demanding range that Rossini requires. This is her third disc of Rossini for London records. Her first two, Rossini Arias and Rossini Songs, are also well worth having.

Spring – Classics For All Seasons (Telarc 80321)

Spring has arrived with bright flowers popping out, and sunny days when we can shed our winter coats. There is a freshness and purity in the air, along with pollen. This recording, the first in a series covering all of the seasons, contains musical selections that are sprightly and upbeat. Most of the works performed are from the Baroque and Classical period (Haydn, Vivaldi, Mozart, Beethoven, etc.) but there are contemporary pieces by Prokofiev and Orff. The performances and recordings are excellent and the price is in the mid-range, which makes this a great buy, for some light listening.