Opera nominations

Puccini

Le Willis

Jaho, Soghomonyan, Mulligan; Opera Rara Chorus; LPO/MARK Elder

Opera Rara 9293800592 Reviewed Dec 2019 ‘Little-known Puccini’ sounds like a contradiction in terms, but chances are you won’t know his first opera, performed here in its original one-act version. And what a treat it turns out to be, packed full of ravishing melodies, performed here with ardour by an emotionally committed cast and orchestra. Earworms guaranteed.

Purcell

King Arthur

Dennis, Lawson, Pierce, Sampson, Budd,

Way, Williams, Riches; Gabrieli Consort and Players/paul Mccreesh

Signum SIGCD589 Reviewed Dec 2019 Twenty-five years’ experience of performing the Arthurian legend infuses this stellar recording. Packed with historical detail from its bespoke performing edition, the ensemble reveals new textures alongside vivid characterisation. It’s a tightknit team that deftly flits between contexts, capturing earthy dances, blissful delicacy and more than the odd wry smile.

Gounod

Faust

Bernheim, Gens, Foster-williams, Jean-bou, Mars, Séguin, Perruche; Les Talens Lyriques; Flemish Radio Choir/christophe Rousset

Bru Zane BZ 1037 Reviewed Christmas 2019 In a performance bursting with character and verve, Les Talens Lyriques presents the less familiar 1859 version of Gounod’s score, with lively spoken dialogue and ‘new’ musical numbers. The stand-out attraction, however, is rising star Benjamin Bernheim in the title role. If you haven’t yet heard his exquisite voice, you must.