DVD 10339 LA STRANIERA (Bellini)

This is not by any means Bellini's best opera--no real characters emerge here--but for fans of the composer it may the the best way to know it. This is a concert, not a staged production, but given the absurdity of the plot it may be preferable. Gruberova is impressive,with a great trill and some lovely pianissimo singing, although ultimately lacks the ability to link a long melodic line (as Caballe and Scotto can do in their recordings of this role). The rest of the cast is good, if not stellar. The visual transfer is a big choppy (feels like a digital blip), but the sound is very good. Definitely recommended for fans of Bellini and/or Gruberova.

PLEASE do not let yourself miss this performance due to Gruberovas age,she sings like an angel,sure she isn't as she was 30 years ago,but apart from a very few times,you can close your eyes and the young Gruberova is there.The rest of the cast is great,so go on,at these prices you cannot go wrong.