Rossini: Semiramide

Rossini: Semiramide

For golden-throated singing, it would be hard to top this classic recording, featuring two great divas at the height of their powers; for a working definition of the term "bel canto," just listen to Joan Sutherland and Marilyn Horne as they make coloratura magic. Never mind the male singers in this recording, though; they're adequate, but, then, they're not the point. Sutherland's <I>Semiramide</I> is a tad maternal in her character, but the singing makes up for any shortcomings there, while Horne is clearly having the time of her life as the warrior Arsace. Richard Bonynge conducts optimally for his singers. For many years this was the only recording available of this tuneful if slightly static opera, and for the quality of its singing it's still the first choice. Unfortunately, there are numerous cuts in the score, so critical-edition buffs will have to seek elsewhere, or do without. <i>--Sarah Bryan Miller</i>