Rossini’s The Barber of Seville returns this week in Vittorio Gui’s classic 1962 recording, timed perfectly for the 210th anniversary of the opera’s Rome premiere. Il barbiere di Siviglia remains the quickest route to joy in the opera house: comic timing, melodic brilliance, and ensembles that sparkle when the rhythm is right and the style is true.
At the centre stands Sesto Bruscantini’s irresistible Figaro, partnered by Victoria de los Angeles’ luminous Rosina and Luigi Alva’s stylish Count Almaviva. With the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Glyndebourne Festival Chorus under Vittorio Gui’s light, alert direction, the whole performance glows with precision, charm and lift.
And with Chopin’s birthday on 1 March, we’re marking the occasion with 10% off all Chopin recordings for one week only. A perfect excuse to revisit the poetry and fire that keep his music forever young.
