Vinci: Artaserse

A key work of baroque opera. No less than five brilliant countertenors – including Max Emanuel Cencic and Philippe Jaroussky – join conductor Diego Fasolis and Concerto Köln for Artaserse by Leonardo Vinci (1690-1730). In early 18th century Italy, the Neapolitan-born composer was one of the brightest stars in opera, and Artaserse is considered his masterpiece.

This recording rises above and beyond with a spectacular line-up of fine countertenors from around the world: The Frenchman Philippe Jaroussky, Max Emmanuel Cencic (from Croatia), Franco Fagioli (from Argentina), Valer Barna-Sabadus (from Romania) and Yuriy Mynenko (from Ukraine). Joining Jaroussky from Germany are a lone tenor, Daniel Behle, and the brilliant Concerto Köln, a leading ensemble in historically informed performance. Diego Fasolis, one of the brightest stars in the Italian baroque world, brings the inventive arias of this late work to life with wonderful lyricism and power... this is one to relish. (The Observer, UK); It is clear that Diego Fasolis exults in the sophistication and beauty of the writing. His celebration of the score is not simply Parnassian it is also loving. Above all, it remains focused on the dramatic demands of the opera. (Forum Opéra, France.)