Rolando Villazón, the acclaimed Mexican tenor, delivers a captivating collection of arias with "Cielo e mar," released in 2008 under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. This 58-minute album is a testament to Villazón's vocal prowess and his deep understanding of operatic repertoire. The tracklist is a journey through some of the most beloved and dramatic moments in opera, featuring arias from works like "La Gioconda," "Adriana Lecouvreur," and "Rigoletto."
Villazón's rich and expressive voice shines throughout the album, showcasing his ability to convey a wide range of emotions and characters. From the tender and romantic "La dolcissima effigie" to the powerful and dramatic "Oh inferno," Villazón's performances are both technically impressive and deeply moving. The album also includes a rare gem, the original version of "Fosca," adding a unique touch to the collection.
"Cielo e mar" is not just a showcase of Villazón's vocal talents but also a celebration of the operatic art form. The album features arias in Italian, highlighting the beauty and expressiveness of the language in opera. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's release in 2008 marked a significant milestone in Villazón's career, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to his craft.
La Gioconda / Act II: "Cielo e mar"Amilcare Ponchielli, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Adriana Lecouvreur / Act I: "La dolcissima effigie"Francesco Cilea, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Il giuramento / Act I: Recitativo & Aria: La Dea di tutti i cor! - Bella adorata incognitaSaverio Mercadante, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Mefistofele / Act I: Dai campi, dai pratiArrigo Boito, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Maristella / Act I: "Io conosco un giardino"Giuseppe Pietri, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Fosca - Original Verion / Act III: "Intenditi con Dio"Antônio Carlos Gomes, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Simon Boccanegra / Act II: "Oh inferno" - "Sento avvampar"Giuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Poliuto / Act II: Scena & Aria: Veleno è l'aura ch'io respiro!Gaetano Donizetti, Rolando Villazón, Gianluca Alfano, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Il giuramento / Act II: Recitativo & Aria: Compita è omai - Fu celesteSaverio Mercadante, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Adriana Lecouvreur / Act II: "L'anima ho stanca"Francesco Cilea, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Il figliuol prodigo: "Il padre!" - "Tenda natal"Amilcare Ponchielli, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Mefistofele / Epilogue: Giunto sul passo estremoArrigo Boito, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Luisa Miller / Act II: Oh! fede negar potessi - Quando le sereGiuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari
Luisa Miller / Act II: L'ara, o l'avello apprestamiGiuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Gianluca Alfano, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari, Coro Sinfonico di Milano Giuseppe Verdi
Rigoletto / Act I: Questa o quellaGiuseppe Verdi, Rolando Villazón, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi, Daniele Callegari