Brahms / Freiburger Vokal Ens - Deutsche Volkslieder - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

With it's carefully planned yet complex dramatic structure and skillful transformation of a tale of heroic conflict between two enemies into a drama of impossible love, Maometto II is considered Rossini's most radical and innovative opera. Against the background of the violent and cruel tumult of war as the Venetian colony of Negroponte is invaded and defeated by Sultan Mehmet II 'the Conqueror,' in 1470, Rossini contrasts this clash of civilizations with the tender emotions of a doomed romance expressed in some of the most beautiful melodies he ever wrote. Heard here in it's original Naples version- the more conventional 1822 Venice version with it's overture and happy ending can be heard on a separate Naxos recording- this is a movingly tragic drama in which the suicide of the main female role is not without a grim relevance even today.

Brahms / Freiburger Vokal Ens - Lieder [COMPACT DISCS] date 01/01/2012

American music is culturally diverse and exciting, mirroring all the best America has to offer. The last two centuries have seen an extraordinary flowering of musical life in the United States. In recognition of the many gifted American men and women of music, Naxos is pleased to present the American Classic Series. When complete, this series will consist of over 200 titles, exploring the full spectrum of American concert music. All the familiar names are there Copland, Ives, Grofé, Barber, and Sousa but so are many others such as Bennett, Dédé, Foote, McKay, and Siegmeister all of whom have contributed to the rich musical tapestry that is American.