Immerse yourself in the timeless brilliance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with "Figaro - Highlights," a captivating collection of arias and ensembles from his masterful opera "Le Nozze di Figaro" (The Marriage of Figaro). This live recording, released on Deutsche Grammophon in 2007, offers a concise yet comprehensive journey through the opera's most beloved moments, spanning a little over an hour and seventeen minutes.
Mozart's "Le Nozze di Figaro" is renowned for its witty libretto and sublime music, and this album captures the essence of the opera's charm and sophistication. From the spirited overture to the poignant arias and the hilarious ensemble pieces, each track showcases Mozart's unparalleled ability to blend musical genius with dramatic depth.
The album features a stellar cast of performers, including the Vienna State Opera Chorus and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Erich Kleiber. Their collective artistry brings to life the opera's rich tapestry of characters and emotions, from the cunning Figaro to the lovestruck Susanna, and the count and countess whose marriage is tested by deceit and reconciliation.
Highlights include the iconic "Non più andrai," a lively tune sung by Figaro to his friend Cherubino, and the tender "Dove sono i bei momenti," a heartfelt aria by the Countess as she reflects on her fading youth and love. The album also includes the famous "Voi che sapete," a contemplative aria by Cherubino, and the exhilarating finale, "Gente, gente, all'armi," where the opera's intricate plot lines come to a delightful resolution.
Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to classical music, "Figaro - Highlights" offers an accessible and enjoyable introduction to one of Mozart's greatest works. This album is a testament to Mozart's enduring legacy and his ability to create music that is both profoundly moving and universally appealing.
"Voi che sapete" (Figaro / Act 2) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Christine Schäfer, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
"Venite... inginocchiatevi..." (Figaro / Act 2) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Anna Netrebko, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
"Susanna, or via, sortite" (Figaro / Act 2) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Dorothea Röschmann, Anna Netrebko, Bo Skovhus, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
"Crudel! perchè finora" (Figaro / Act 3) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Anna Netrebko, Bo Skovhus, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
"Hai già vinta la causa" - "Vedrò mentr'io sospiro" (Figaro / Act 3) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Bo Skovhus, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
"E Susanna non vien!" - "Dove sono i bei momenti" (Figaro / Act 3) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Dorothea Röschmann, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
Cosa mi narri?...Che soave zeffiretto (Figaro / Act 3) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Anna Netrebko, Dorothea Röschmann, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
Ecco la marcia - Andate amici (Figaro / Act 3) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Anna Netrebko, Dorothea Röschmann, Bo Skovhus, Ildebrando D'Arcangelo, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt, Wiener Staatsopernchor
"L'ho perduta... me meschina!" (Figaro / Act 4) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Eva Liebau, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
"Tutto è disposto" - "Aprite un po' quegli occhi" (Figaro / Act 4) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ildebrando D'Arcangelo, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
"Giunse alfin il momento" - "Deh vieni non tardar" (Figaro / Act 4) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Anna Netrebko, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
"Gente, gente, all'armi" (Figaro / Act 4) - LiveWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Eva Liebau, Marie McLaughlin, Christine Schäfer, Dorothea Röschmann, Anna Netrebko, Patrick Henckens, Bo Skovhus, Ildebrando D'Arcangelo, Florian Boesch, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt