GOUNOD
Faust
Jerry Hadley, Cecilia Gasdia, Samuel Ramey
Carlo Rizzi
Teldec #4509-90872
"Faust" is a gorgeous opera
from first note to the last; a torrent of beautiful melodies
tumbling one after another in dazzling succession, and
this is an outstanding recording of it. Jerry Hadley,
as Faust, is unexpectedly fine, and Samuel Ramey is a
most excellent Mephistopheles (as one would expect). But
the most compelling reason to own this recording is the
spectacularly wonderful Italian soprano, Cecilia Gasdia
as Marguerite. What a voice! I was swept away by it. Listen
to her performance of the "Jewel" aria (track
#3 on the second CD). Ravishing is the only word for it.
I am in danger of wearing out the "repeat" button
on my CD player. Carlo Rizzi, conducting the chorus and
orchestra of the Welsh National Opera, gives a beautifully
balanced account of the score, lilting and lush, and full
of fire when required. The recorded sound is first rate
- warm and full bodied, yet detailed and transparent.
ARRY
KATZ
HOMEBUILDING