Gaetano Donizetti - Rosmonda d'Inghilterra - "Perche non ho" (Beverly Sills)

Описание: This new double download is a special treat. Recently I found two versions of an air from Donizetti's "Rosmonda d'Inghilterra" "Ancor non guinse... Perché non ho del vento... Torna, ah! torna, o caro oggetto...", which was used as an alternative aria for Lucia opening cavatina. Now, to be totally honest, I just can't warm up to this aria as a whole: I just don't like the recitative and the cental aria. The cabaletta, on the other hand, is quite glorious. Still, I think it would be interesting for everybody to listen to this obscure aria. Now, the two versions that I'm talking about are: 1) Beverly Sills's rendition on her CD "Bellini & Donizetti Arias"; 2) a relatively early (circa 1961-1962) rendition by Joan Sutherland (this one can be found either on "Voice of the Century" or on "Tribute to Jenny Lind"). Now I'm aware that there seems to be a real battle going on between diva lovers, in particular, between Sills/Sutherland fans. I love both these wonderful singers, so I'm really not trying to find out who is the best opera singer. I just think it would be interesting to compare both renditions: the approach is quite different. Still, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, so all ideas are welcome :-) . Your comments would be most valued. Hope you enjoy!

P.S. Due to the sheer size of the aria, I divided each rendition into two parts: the recitative and the aria (+ cabaletta).