Description:

Gwyneth Jones began her career as a mezzo-soprano, performing roles such as Orfeo and Carmen. Her transition to soprano came unexpectedly when, while preparing to sing Ulrica in Un Ballo in Maschera, conductor Nello Santi persuaded her to embrace her true vocal range. He pointed out that her middle register lacked projection but her high C was outstanding. She subsequently stepped into the role of Amelia, and the rest, as they say, is history.

This performance, recorded over a decade later, reunites Jones and Santi in the opera that transformed her career. Jones proves the transition was a wise one, delivering steely, ringing high notes contrasted by delicate, floated pianissimi. She is joined by Plácido Domingo as Riccardo, where the Spanish tenor masterfully balances his lyrical and dramatic strengths, even attempting—and successfully delivering—a rare live high C at the end of the Act II duet. Jeanette Scovotti brings charm to the role of Oscar, while Nello Santi confirms his reputation as one of the last great Italian conductors.

The sound is fair to good.

Bonus:
Gwyneth Jones and Plácido Domingo Sing Verdi Arias

OD 10634-2