Albinoni: Il nascimento dell'aurora

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque opera with Tomaso Albinoni's "Il nascimento dell'aurora," a captivating album that showcases the composer's mastery of the genre. This 1985 release, conducted by the renowned Claudio Scimone and performed by I Solisti Veneti, is a stunning exploration of Albinoni's dramatic and lyrical prowess.

The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including the celebrated soprano June Anderson, who was rapidly establishing herself as one of the finest sopranos of her generation. Alongside her, Margarita Zimmermann, Sandra Browne, Susanne Klare, and Yoshihisa Yamaji deliver powerful and nuanced performances that bring Albinoni's characters to life.

"Il nascimento dell'aurora" is set in the Valley of Tempe, where divine beings and nymphs celebrate the birth of Aurora, the goddess of the dawn. Through a series of recitatives and arias, the characters praise Aurora's beauty and virtues, drawing parallels with the natural world around them. The libretto, included as a 16-page booklet, provides a rich context for the opera's themes and narrative.

The album spans a generous 1 hour and 52 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Albinoni's score. The recording, originally released on vinyl as a 2-LP boxset, has been praised for its high production quality, allowing the intricate details of Albinoni's composition to shine.

This album is a testament to Albinoni's enduring influence on Baroque music and a delight for both seasoned opera enthusiasts and those new to the genre. With its rich orchestration, beautiful arias, and dramatic recitatives, "Il nascimento dell'aurora" is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences.