L'Ultima Canzone

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Italian song with "L'Ultima Canzone" by Francesco Paolo Tosti, a masterful collection of songs that blend the rich traditions of canzone napoletana and opera. Released in 2014 by Phaedra, this album is a testament to Tosti's enduring legacy as a composer of profound and evocative music.

Spanning a duration of 59 minutes, "L'Ultima Canzone" features a diverse array of tracks that showcase Tosti's mastery of melody and harmony. From the enchanting "Malia in E-Flat Major" to the poignant "Vorrei morire! II," each piece is a jewel in its own right, offering a glimpse into the composer's deep understanding of the human condition. The album includes both vocal and piano accompaniment versions, providing a rich and varied listening experience.

Highlights of the album include the serene "Ideale in A Major," the heart-wrenching "Non t'amo più!," and the tender "La Serenata." The album also features beloved songs like "A Vucchella" and "Ninna nanna," which are staples of the Italian repertoire. Tosti's ability to capture the essence of love, longing, and nostalgia is evident throughout, making this album a treasure trove for lovers of classical and traditional Italian music.

Francesco Paolo Tosti, born in 1846, was an Italian composer and singing teacher who spent much of his career in England. His compositions, including those featured in "L'Ultima Canzone," have been performed by some of the most renowned vocalists of the 20th century, cementing his place in the canon of Italian music. This album is a beautiful tribute to his enduring influence and a delightful addition to any music collection.

Francesco Paolo Tosti, born in the coastal town of Ortona, Italy, in 1846, was a prolific and influential composer and music teacher, renowned for his enchanting vocal chamber music. Tosti's career spanned both Italy and England, where he served as a singing master to the royal families of both nations and was knighted in 1908. His extensive repertoire of over 400 songs, composed in multiple languages, showcases his mastery of the canzone napoletana and operatic genres. Tosti's melodies, characterized by their direct, simple grace and sensual Italianate vocal lines, have captivated audiences and singers alike, from the legendary Enrico Caruso and Luisa Tetrazzini to modern-day tenors like Pavarotti and Carreras. Beyond his musical prowess, Tosti's legacy is celebrated in his hometown, where a statue stands in his honor, and his memorabilia are preserved in the archives of the Istituto Nazionale Tostiano.