Rossini / Timson Introduction To Rossini: Barber Of Seville CD

The Barber of Seville is Rossini's most popular opera. It's effervescent overture (written originally for another work!) presents a perfect platform for the amusing plot in which the barber, Figaro, stage-manages a romance between Count Almaviva and Rosina, and puts to flight the old suitor, Dr Bartolo. 'Largo al Factotum' is one of the most popular arias in opera - nearly 200 years after it's first performance it is still one of the great show-stoppers. But why was the opera received with boos and catcalls at it's first performance in 1816, and why did Rossini return to the plot and environment presented so sublimely by Mozart? Opera writer Thomson Smillie and actor David Timson present the background in their informative but entertaining manner.

1. Introduction 2. The Barber of Seville, His 17th Opera 3. The Overture 4. Act I 5. Figaro's Entrance Aria 6. Rosina - Una Voce Poco Fa 7. Start Some Gossip, Some Slander - Don Basilio 8. Act I Finale 9. Act II 10. Rosina's Aria, Contro Un Cor 11. Zitti Zitti - Quickly Quickly 12. Act II Finale