Wolf-Ferrari, E.: Vedova Scaltra

Immerse yourself in the witty and charming world of Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari's "La Vedova Scaltra" (The Cunning Widow), a delightful opera that showcases the composer's unique blend of Italian and French musical influences. This three-act opera, composed in 1931, is a comedic tale of love, deception, and mistaken identities, all wrapped up in a delightful musical score that is as engaging as it is entertaining.

The story revolves around the cunning widow Rosaura, who uses her wit and charm to navigate the complex web of relationships and alliances that surround her. With a cast of colorful characters, including the lovesick Monsieur, the bumbling Arlecchino, and the scheming Il Conte, "La Vedova Scaltra" is a whirlwind of musical and dramatic delights that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

This recording, released by Naxos in 2008, features a stellar cast of singers, including Emanuele D'Aguanno, Mark Milhofer, Riccardo Zanellato, and Elena Rossi, who bring the characters to life with their powerful voices and nuanced performances. The orchestra, conducted by an unnamed conductor, provides a rich and vibrant musical backdrop that perfectly complements the action on stage.

With a running time of over two hours, this recording offers a complete and unabridged performance of Wolf-Ferrari's opera, allowing you to fully appreciate the composer's musical genius and the dramatic power of the story. Whether you are a seasoned opera fan or a newcomer to the genre, "La Vedova Scaltra" is sure to captivate and delight you with its wit, charm, and musical brilliance.