In this tribute to the great 19th century mezzo-soprano Maria Malibran,
Cecilia Bartoli sings selections from the repertoire for which Malibran was known.
Bartoli bravely and entirely successfully follows Malibran into soprano roles also. The primary impression the album creates is astonishment and awe at the extraordinary range of the selections, and
Bartoli's ease, absolute security, and seamless delivery, from above the treble staff to the middle of the bass staff. Hummel's Air à la tirolienne avec variations may not be a musical masterpiece, but
Bartoli's range, dizzying coloratura, and yodeling ability are breathtaking.
Bartoli's "Casta Diva" is a marvel of purity, restraint, and emotional vulnerability, and is by itself worth the price of the album.
Adam Fischer conducts Orchestra La Scintilla in lively accompaniments to
Bartoli's vibrant and supple performances.