Customer Reviews

Mozart Arias

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It is a triumph of spirit, talent, and a testimony that art truly has magical powers. To opera fans impressed so far only by Thomas Quasthoff's gorgeous voice, I want to recommend an article by Elizabeth Gleick in Time magazine published June 30 1997. This article was the first in the US, I believe, to alert the public that a singer of phenomenal magnitude has arrived. Without going into the odds that Thomas Quasthoff beat with seeming ease, let's just say that here we have an incredible personality and, as a result, an incredible artistry. Do not miss this CD -- it will bring you endless wonder and delight.

From the first listen, it is apparent that no vocal challenges present any difficulty to Quasthoff; with his impeccable technique he makes Mozart's notoriously difficult, coloratura-laden arias seem as natural as skirt-chasing for Don Giovanni. My favorite has to be "Rivilgete a lui lo squardo", a rare aria, sometimes included in Cosi fan Tutte. Quasthoff hits all the high notes with such accuracy, it's only more staggering to hear him sing Sorastro right in the next track. The power of his voice is astonishing; this is the kind of voice suitable for Dutchman or Don Quixote (both Massenet's and Ravel's). But just when you think you understand the way it is set up, he delivers the most charming account of Papageno, a role usually reserved by light, high baritones. I am fantasizing about hearing him in Verdian roles, what a treat it would be to hear his Simon Boccanegra!

It is all but impossible to describe Thomas Quasthoff's phenomenal artistry in a couple of short paragraphs. I predict numerous books and articles will appear soon, although to even get a glimpse of understanding we first need to listen to his recordings. This one is not to be missed for anything!

For baritones anywhere, Thomas Quasthoff's Mozart CD is a "must-have" in the collection. His voice rivals those of Fischer-Dieskau, Hampson, Van Dam, and other opera greats. I can't say much else than the person from Texas, other than the fact that it is hard to believe that such a wonderful, rich, warm tone comes from the small frame of this man. As a baritone myself, I can only hope with more years of practice and maturity, that I shall be producing this quality of voice. One last note to make... Shame, shame on Amazon for yet again not giving people a good sample of his work on this CD, and just having samples of the first 5 tracks, instead of a glimpse into the different operas. Either way though, one can still hear Quasthoff's magnificent overtones and phrases, making this CD a joy to hear and own.

A recent Wall Street Journal article outlined Quasthoff's remarkable story. But his artistry stands apart from the circumstances of his life. His technique, tone, and treatment of these familiar masterpieces is impeccable. This is a listening experience which should not be missed by any lover of the Mozart repertoire.

This cd is excellent. I had never liked opera. I'm not really into classical music, but Thomas Quasthoff's voice transcends all genres of music and touches the soul. It is the most amazing voice, I don't have the words to describe. You have to hear it for yourself.

Quasthoff's is clearly a voice that belongs to the ages. This disc of Mozart arias is as lyrically sung as possible while still maintaining almost impossible standards of technical perfection. Highly, highly recommended....

The first time I heard this voice on the radio, I was stopped in my tracks, transfixed. I had to call in to find out it was Thomas Quasthoff. Exquisite baritone. It is not possible to be disappointed.