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21 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A 'must-have' for any Handelian, 28 Oct 2003
This, the first recording on CD that I am aware of is one of the great Handel recordings of the last 30 years. Christopher Hogwood assembled a nearly perfect cast, all with substantial Handel experience, and one which does the magnificent music full justice.The story, taken from Ariosto's Orlando Furioso (also the subject of an opera by Vivaldi) and re-worked by Handel and his libretist, is a story of love spurned and of the psychological breakdown of the knight Orlando (James Bowman). All is presided over by the sage magician Zoroastro (David Thomas) who eventually restores the murdered Angelica (Arleen Augur) and Prince Medoro (Catherine Robbin) to life. As if this is not bad enough, Orlando had fallen in love with Angelica who in turn is in love with Medoro, and who himself has an interest in the shepherdess Dorinda (Emma Kirkby). All a little complicated for five main characters. In any case the casting is nigh on perfect. Arleen Augur's clear and luscious voice is a nice contrast to Emma Kirkby's pure bell-like tone. David Thomas is on top form as the authoritative magician, and Catherine Robbin is sensual as Prince Medoro in a breeches role. The name part, played here by James Bowman, was originally written for one of the great 18th Century Castrati Senesino, an artist of supreme vocal and interpretative talents. Bowman does the part full justice whether in the more florid 'Fammi Combattere' from Act one, or his furious act 2 aria 'Cielo se tu'il consenti', or in the magnificently done 'Mad Scene' at the end of act 2. The recording was done in 1990-91 and is beautifully presented. The booklet is authoritative, and the libretto complete. This is a must for any lover of Handel, or for any fan of simply magnificent music.
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