Kozena’s Carmen
This studio opera recording of Bizet’s Carmen marks the 10th anniversary of the artistic ‘dream-team’ partnership of Sir Simon Rattle and the Berliner Philharmoniker. Carmen is by far the most popular French opera, and this recording is boasting an amazing cast with Magdalena Kožená in the title role and Jonas Kaufmann as Don José.
The rest of the performing cast is:
Genia Kühmeier (Micaëla), Kostas Smoriginas (Escamillo), Christian van Horn (Zuniga), Andrè Schuen (Moralès), Christina Landshammer (Frasquita), Rachel Frenkel (Mercédès), Jean-Paul Fouchécourt (Remendado) & Simone del Savio (Dancairo)
Supported by the Chor der Deutschen Staatsoper Berlin and the Berliner Philharmoniker, conducted by Sir Simon Rattle.
Here are just tow of recent writings in the British press:
The Independent, 18th August 2012:
“Kozena and Jonas Kaufmann are perfectly matched in the lead roles, bringing a persuasive emotional chemistry to Carmen and Don Jose’s doomed affair…the support of minor roles and choir is exceptional, particularly the enchanting urchins’ chorus provided by the Kinderchor der Deutschen Staatsoper Berlin.”
The Times, 17th August 2012:
“There’s much to enjoy. Never an opera specialist, Rattle digs out details that other maestros let slumber. The high-speed energy is infectious; and the microphones keep the orchestral sound lovely…Rattle offers Carmen the gorgeous symphonic experience”
Now here’s the trailer for this performance:
And now a 17-minute Documentary:
Tags: Carmen, Magdalena Kozena, Sir Simon Rattle, Berliner Philharmoniker, Jonas Kaufmann