Faustina bordoni - Faces of a Prima Donna

Faustina Bordoni (1697 – 1781, Venice) was universally ranked among the greatest singers of her age. This was at a time when the great castrati of the 18th century ruled the operatic stage, but Faustina, as she was known, was no less revered. Chroniclers raved about the flexibility and brilliance of her voice, her perfect intonation, outstanding breath control, and her musical intelligence. It was also said that her extraordinary singing abilities were matched by her acting.

It was this combination of a great singer and actor whose story needed to be told that inspired Toronto music critic and programmer Tamara Bernstein to create the program on which this CD is based, for the Montreal ensemble ARION. The recording features works by Handel, one of Faustina’ most devoted admirers, and by Johann Adolf Hasse, a composer of great talent and also Faustina’s loving husband.

The CD presents the talented Canadian mezzo-soprano KIMBERLY BARBER. The musical accompaniment and interludes in this recording go to one of Canada’s greatest early music ensembles, ARION, famous for its refined and expressive performances. The group calls upon world-renowned guest conductors to perform vocal and instrumental works in its high-profile series of concerts in Montreal. For this occasion, soloist, director and chamber musician extraordinaire MONICA HUGGETT leads the ensemble. The gifted young baritone, JONATHAN CARLE also assists.

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