Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry of Domenico Cimarosa's "Cleopatra," a captivating opera that has been beautifully preserved and presented in this 2018 release. Composed in 1789, this opera was commissioned by the illustrious Empress Catherine II of Russia, who requested a shorter and more straightforward plot, resulting in a performance that clocks in at just over an hour and a quarter—quite brief for an opera of its era.
This album, meticulously edited by Simone Perugini, offers a rare opportunity to experience the elegance and drama of Cimarosa's work in its original Italian language. The opera unfolds over two acts, each filled with arias and ensembles that showcase the composer's mastery of melody and harmony. From the stirring "Ouverture" to the poignant arias like "Ah, ritorna al primo affetto" and the dramatic "Marcia," every track is a testament to Cimarosa's genius.
The album features a stellar performance by the Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, led by Simone Perugini, who brings the score to life with authenticity and passion. The recording, released by VDC Classique, captures the essence of Cimarosa's music, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
Whether you are a seasoned opera lover or a curious newcomer, "Cleopatra" by Domenico Cimarosa is a delightful exploration of 18th-century opera, offering a glimpse into the musical world of the late 1700s. With its engaging narrative and exquisite musical craftsmanship, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene I: Se nembo di guerraDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini, Choeur de la Cabale des Devots
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 2: Signor...Domenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 3: La veggo, l'ascoltoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 4: SinfoniaDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 5: BalloDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 6: Spiran soaviDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Choeur de la Cabale des Devots
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 7: Compiti i voti suoiDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Nicholas Porrington
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 8: Ah, che vano è il mio sospettoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 9: Arresta il passoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Nicholas Porrington, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini
Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 10: Ah, se tu vuoiDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 1: Ah, ritorni il bel serenoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Nicholas Porrington, Choeur de la Cabale des Devots
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 2: Da me partiteDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini, Nicholas Porrington
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 3: Ah, ritorna al primo affettoDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 4: Ecco ciò ch'io temeaDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 5: Vieni, l'onor t'additaDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Laurie Farrel-Smith
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 6: MarciaDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 7: Affrettiamci, Signor...Domenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith, July Wason
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 8: Da quel labroDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, Elisabetta Manfredini
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 9: Una strada v'è ancorDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith, Nicholas Porrington
Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 10: Sento in sì dolce istanteDomenico Cimarosa, Simone Perugini, Fête Galante Baroque Orchestra, July Wason, Elisabetta Manfredini, Laurie Farrel-Smith, Nicholas Porrington, Choeur de la Cabale des Devots