Kathleen Battle!
Il Barbiere di Siviglia on DVD
What a wonderful singer! Kathleen Battle has been one of my great favorites for many years. Her recordings of Mozart arias, Lieder by Schubert, collaborations with James Levine, and appearances at major Opera houses are legendary.
This DVd represents a wonderful performance of the Rossini opera, and Ms. Battle’s stage presence is astounding, as always. She is, elegant, and full of girlish charm. As for the singing: The notes emerge out of her mouth as if they were composed just for her; as if only Ms. Battle can do them justice for they are so wonderfully executed, rich in tone and color.
Rarely do you see singers paired so beautifully with arias than what you see in the DVD with Ms. Battle. She did not over do the coloratura parts as most sopranos singing the role might do. Rather, when she does go for those notes, she floats up to them with such ease and beauty.
Great singing is great singing no matter who is singing. In this case it is the great magic, sound and artistry of Kathleen Battle!
Here is a video of Ms. Battle, as she sings Ach, ich fühl’s from Mozart’s Zauberfloete; where Tamino swore not to speak, and Tamina believes that he no longer loves her…