101 Essential Opera Favourites (Decca) review
THIS six-box set is a cornucopia of operatic joys and contains some of themost dramatic, moving, lyric and passionate music ever written for the human voice.
It is perfect for anyone starting to appreciate operahaving been previously daunted by its alleged “high brow” reputation. Some of the performances are thrilling.
There is a touching One Fine Day from Madame Butterfly sung delicately by Mirella Freni.
Luciano Pavarotti is at his booming best with La Donne e Mobile from Rigoletto.
VERDICT 3/5