Marijana Mijanovic, "E' gelosia", Alcina, Handel

[Gudrun74]

Precious!! I learned recently that Bradamante was one of MM's first steps into baroque and into opera at all, she doubled this role already in the W. Christie production in Paris, where Bradamante was actually sung by K. Kuhlmann. That was even before her breakthrough with Penelope in Aix, and the rest is history.

I'm soooooooo thankful that she obviosly likes Handel. Her ability of producing "Affetti barocchi" plus her architectonic sense of creating a da capo are unequalled. Mijanovic rules.

[lalagonegaga]

I have a little theory to share with you. Each decade gives birth to one perfect female singer. The 40's gave us Kirkby, the 50's Podles, the 60's Bartoli and the jewel of the 70's is singing in the bacground while you read this. :)

[rayangreene]

I agree with you about the 50's giving us Ewa Podles and the 70's giving us the surreal Marijana Mijanovic, but I would also add that the 10's gave us the divine Kathleen Ferrier and that the 30's gave us the great Maureen Forrester.

[lalagonegaga]

Ha, yes, Kathleen Ferrier is definitely in the league with these ladies. As for Maureen Forrester, I haven't heard much of her so I cannot judge this. I will have to listen to more of her recordings and then get back to you. Maybe something you could recommend to me? :)

[rayangreene]

Well, if you're a baroque addict like me, I'd advise you to get Maureen Forrester Handel's recording (Handel Arias). It's divine. My favorite arias of the disc are "Se bramate d'amar" and "Scenes of horror". Mind you, you may wanna start listening to her "One charming night" on youtube.

I was in a state of shock the first time I heard it. Just let me know what you think about it.

[hillevifan]

Another reccomendation I could make with Maureen Forrester is the RCA recording of Handel's Giulio Cesare with Beverly Sills as Cleopatra. Forrester makes an effecting Cornelia, almost unparalleled!

[rayangreene]

Thank you "wienerfr" for posting that unobtainable mp3 file. Faithful to her self Marijana does a great job here.