Riccardo Muti - Vincenzo Bellini: Capulets et Montaigus (2008)

A neglected masterpiece "I Capuleti e I Montecchi" has much to offer and is not less important than Bellini's other operas. On this recording we have two wonderful singers Baltsa and Gruberova. Agni Baltsa as Romeo is heard in one of her best performances! She possesses one of the most beautiful mezzo voices and indicates a good understanding of the demanding role of Romeo (regarded as a difficult mezzo role). Edita Gruberova a moving, sweet Giulietta. She proves that she can be sublime in Strauss and Mozart as in Bel Canto. The less famous tenor Dano Raffanti is exceptional! The tenor role may not be so big but Raffanti is wonderful whenever heard. Last but certainly not least, Muti completes this historical performance.
I was taken aback, after having listened to many moments of the opera, when I read on the back cover that this is a live recording! I usually avoid them because of the sound quality but this DDD is really something. The audience is seldom heard and the applause is only in the end of each act. I therefore strongly recommend this recording to every opera collector.