Experience the timeless artistry of José Carreras in this exquisite collection of operatic arias, showcasing his unparalleled vocal prowess and dramatic depth. Released in 2014, this album features José Carreras singing masterpieces from some of the most celebrated composers in the opera world, including Donizetti, Bellini, Verdi, Mercadante, and Ponchielli. Spanning a rich tapestry of compositions, this album is a testament to Carreras' versatility and enduring legacy in the realm of opera.
The album opens with a powerful rendition from Giuseppe Verdi's "I Lombardi alla prima crociata," followed by a selection of arias that highlight Carreras' ability to convey both tender intimacy and dramatic intensity. From the heart-wrenching "Vesti la giubba" from Leoncavallo's "Pagliacci" to the soaring "Testa adorata" from Puccini's "La bohème," each track is a masterclass in vocal technique and emotional resonance.
With a duration of approximately one hour and nine minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive journey through some of the most beloved and iconic operatic works. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, José Carreras' impeccable performances will captivate and inspire. The album is a beautiful blend of classic and lesser-known pieces, ensuring a rich and varied listening experience. The recording quality is top-notch, allowing every nuance of Carreras' voice to shine through, making it a valuable addition to any classical music collection.
I Lombardi alla prima crociata / Act 2: "La mia letizia infondere"Giuseppe Verdi, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
La forza del destino / Act 3: "La vita è inferno..Oh, tu che in seno agli angeli"Giuseppe Verdi, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Luisa Miller / Act 2: "Oh! fede negar potessi...Quando le sere al placido"Giuseppe Verdi, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Un ballo in maschera / Act 3: "Forse la soglia attinse...Ma se m'è forza perderti"Giuseppe Verdi, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Jérusalem / Act 3: "L'infamie..O mes amis, mes frères"Giuseppe Verdi, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Il giuramento / Act 1: "La Dea di tutti i cor...Bella adorata incognita"Saverio Mercadante, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Il giuramento / Act 2: "Compiuta è omai...Fu celeste"Saverio Mercadante, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Il Duca d'Alba / Act 4: "Inosservato...Angelo casto e bel"Gaetano Donizetti, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Maria di Rohan / Act 2: "Nel fragor della festa...Alma soave e cara"Gaetano Donizetti, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Adelson e Salvini / Act 3: "Ecco, signor, la sposa"Vincenzo Bellini, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Il figliuol prodigo: "Il padre!...Tenda natal"Amilcare Ponchielli, José Carreras, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Roberto Benzi
Pagliacci / Act 1: "Vesti la giubba"Ruggero Leoncavallo, José Carreras, London Symphony Orchestra, Jesús López-Cobos
La bohème / Act 3: "Testa adorata"Ruggero Leoncavallo, José Carreras, London Symphony Orchestra, Jesús López-Cobos
Zazà / Act 3: "O mio piccolo tavolo"Ruggero Leoncavallo, José Carreras, London Symphony Orchestra, Jesús López-Cobos
Gli Zingari / Act 1: "Dammi un amore"Ruggero Leoncavallo, José Carreras, London Symphony Orchestra, Jesús López-Cobos
L'amico Fritz / Act 3: "Ed anche Beppe amò"Pietro Mascagni, José Carreras, London Symphony Orchestra, Jesús López-Cobos
L'arlesiana / Act 2: "E la solita storia del pastore"Francesco Cilea, José Carreras, London Symphony Orchestra, Jesús López-Cobos