Rossini / Varriale / Sollini - Soiree Musicales [CD]

This release features a fine selection of repertoire by Rossini, including two world premiere recordings. The album is bookended by Rossini's La regatta veneziana and his Soirees musicales, both of which are sometimes referred to as his "Venetian Regatta." Soprano Valentina Varriale is an outstanding vocalist with a generous voice and emotional timbre. She sings with the same attention to detail the most beautiful pages of the operatic lyric repertoire and the masterpieces of the baroque and classical periods. Mezzosoprano Monica Carletti first studied violin before graduating with an honors degree in voice from the Conservatorio Santa Cecilia in Rome. She regularly interprets the great Italian, German, French, and Polish repertoire in her recitals. Born in Catania, Giulio Pelligra debuted in 2006 at the National Theatre in Malta. His highly-praised toles include Rodolfo in La Boheme and Lord Ricardo Percy in Donizetti's Anna Bolena. Bass vocalist Salvatore Grigoli graduated from Conservatorio Bellini in Palermo. His numerous awards include "Concorso Nazionale Agimus," and Best Bellini voice at "Consorso citta di Alcamo." These brilliant vocalists are joined by pianist Marco Sollini, one of the most sought-after accompanists in Italy.