Customer Reviews

Historic Recordings

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This is one of the most important recordings of the entire 20th century. That is why is has had such an important life on its original 78s, but was also transfered to 33s in their time and now has its existence on CDs. This repertory opened up to listeners a world not previously known to the general public. It prepared the way for awakening our knowledge and love of opera's origins and then of Monteverdi's operas in particular, and then of 17th-century Venetian opera in general.
In addition, it put on the map the artistry of Hugues Cuenod, who has recently celebrated his 100th birthday, in good form, exceptionally "hip" and surrounded by love.
For me this recording was and IS one of the VERY FEW precious jewels of sound imagery that have guarded and directed the path of my life. What more need I say?

Funny how things connect together. I first heard of Monteverdi's music 30 years ago while reading Steinbeck's "Cannery Row" - the hero, Doc, owns some beloved 78's. Many years later, after aquiring a love of Monteverdi's madrigals, I found this CD - could they be the very same recordings that Steinbeck wrote into his wonderful novel? Indeed they are! The original 78's were recorded long before the modern obsession with "authentic" period style perfomance, and were, I think, the first recordings made of the music of this composer, hitherto neglected for centuries. This is no exercise in musical archaeology. Despite the "historic" (1937) recording quality, this is living, breathing music making of exceptional inspiration and perennial freshness. It is an essential recording for any lover of Monteverdi's music, demonstrating the strength of his musical ideas and their ability to transcend currently accepted performance styles. In addition, the Brahms and Schubert are a delightful bonus.