Danielle de Niese is a truly special artist, in my opinion, she will be regarded as the next Callas- and I don't mean because she is like Callas. Maria Callas was a truly singular artist in her time and was in a league of her own. Danielle de Niese is already regarded amongst her peers, mentors and critics in the classical music world as being in a class of her own, and as she grows into a fully mature artist, she proves this over and over again in both her recordings and her performances.
This is the type of album that really showcases her talents as both an interpreter and a first rate linguist in english, italian and german (her first recording of German repertoire). The love she feels for the music is almost tangible through the speakers!
You know an album is great when you want to listen to it more than once- certainly the case here, and this is a program of works by the most beloved of Baroque composers from British composer John Dowland, to Handel, Monteveri, and Bach by way of Purcell and Pergolesi.
Ms de Niese has varied her program between our favorites and her favorites, which (as a connaisseur of Baroque repertoire) kept me interested and intrigued throughout the program. Just as I was relaxing into the listening, I would come across a completely new arrangement or piece, my ears and senses relishing with delight piece like Monteverdi's Quel Sguardo Sdegnosetto almost as much I loved listening to the classics like the ethereal Ombra Mai Fu (which is absoutely gorgeous and beautifully interpreted for one so young).
But enough from me, listen for yourself and you'll agree. No classical music lover's collection would be complete without this wonderful album from Danielle de Niese (a precious time capsule of the magnificent Baroque period). The critics have all weighed in and they agree. Ms de Niese also includes three duets (Monteverdi, Pergolesi, and Handel) with the wonderful Andreas Scholl. Perfection to hear them together.
A MUST-BUY ALBUM on all accounts.