Heroes in Love

Dive into the captivating world of baroque opera with "Heroes in Love," a stunning collection of rare arias by Christoph Willibald Gluck. This exquisite album, released in 2017 on the Glossa label, showcases the profound artistry of one of the most influential composers of the classical era. With a running time of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of operatic gems that will enchant both seasoned opera enthusiasts and those new to the genre.

The album features the extraordinary talents of contralto Sonia Prina and tenor Ruben Jais, accompanied by the esteemed ensemble laBarocca. Their performances bring to life a selection of arias from Gluck's lesser-known operas, including "La Sofonisba," "Demofoonte," "Cleonice," and "Ezio," among others. Each aria is a masterclass in vocal technique and dramatic expression, highlighting Gluck's innovative approach to opera and his enduring influence on the genre.

"Heroes in Love" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a journey through the rich tapestry of Gluck's operatic works. The album opens with the stirring "Se in campo armato" from "La Sofonisba" and concludes with the powerful "Se il fulmine sospendi" from "Ezio," offering a diverse range of musical styles and moods. Whether you are drawn to the dramatic intensity of "Tradita, sprezzata" from "La Semiramide riconosciuta" or the lyrical beauty of "Se tu vedessi come vegg'io" from "Ippolito," this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.

The album has been praised for its exceptional recording quality and the outstanding performances of its vocalists. Critics have hailed it as a "vocal gem" and a "most beautiful disc of rare but rewarding repertory," making it a standout addition to any classical music collection. With its blend of rare arias and stellar performances, "Heroes in Love" is a testament to the enduring power of Gluck's music and the timeless appeal of opera.

Christoph Willibald Gluck, a pioneering figure in the world of opera, bridged the gap between the Baroque and Classical eras with his innovative and dramatic compositions. Born in the Upper Palatinate and raised in Bohemia, Gluck's journey took him from the courts of Europe to the stages of Italy and France, where he revolutionized operatic practices. His groundbreaking works, such as "Orfeo ed Euridice" and "Alceste," broke away from the dominant opera seria style, introducing more dramatic storytelling and orchestral depth. Gluck's reforms, which included the use of orchestral recitative and the reduction of lengthy da capo arias, laid the foundation for the future of opera, influencing composers like Mozart and Berlioz. With a career spanning nearly five decades and a catalog of 49 operas, Gluck's legacy as a trailblazer in the world of classical music is undeniable.