Farinelli

Celebrating over three decades of her illustrious career, renowned mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli presents "Farinelli," a captivating exploration of the life and legacy of the 18th century's most celebrated opera singer, the castrato Farinelli. Released on November 29, 2019, under the Decca Classics label, this album is a testament to Bartoli's unparalleled artistry and her dedication to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of Baroque opera.

"Farinelli" features a stunning collection of arias composed by Farinelli's mentor, Nicola Porpora, and his brother, Riccardo Broschi, among others. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of operatic masterpieces that highlight Bartoli's extraordinary vocal range and technical prowess. Accompanied by the talented ensemble Il Giardino Armonico, conducted by Giovanni Antonini, Bartoli delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive.

The album's tracklist includes iconic arias such as "Nell' attendere mio bene" from Porpora's "Polifemo," "Vaghi amori, grazie amate" from "La festa d'Imeneo," and "Morte col fiero aspetto" from Hasse's "Marc'Antonio e Cleopatra." Each piece is meticulously performed, showcasing Bartoli's ability to navigate the complexities of Baroque opera with ease and grace.

Recorded in the acoustically pristine Dorothea Porsche Saal, Odeïon, Salzburg, "Farinelli" benefits from exceptional sound quality, allowing every nuance of Bartoli's voice to shine through. The album is a fitting tribute to Farinelli, capturing the essence of his legendary vocal technique and the enduring appeal of his repertoire.

Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Farinelli" offers a compelling introduction to the world of Baroque opera. With Cecilia Bartoli at the helm, this album is sure to captivate and inspire, showcasing the timeless beauty of this classical genre.