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Getting into Opera... need advice

I have never listened to much opera, but have lately been accidentally encountering it, and decided its time to dip my toe into the water.

I am interested in starting with something that has a very melancholy, introspective feel to it. Something slower... not too sprightly.

I guess that desire leads me to believe that I should look for a tenor, but if someone has a recording that features a female vocalist that they think would fit the bill, I will be receptive to such a suggestion.

Oh, and I have a CD-only rig. No vinyl or high resolution capabilities.

Thanks very much for the help.
niravp
goose
692 posts
 
Try Maria Callas "The very best of" on EMI Classics. Seventeen selections from various Operas. These are from older recordings but they sound very good and you can't beat the performances.
ellery911
549 posts
 
I think that If you really want to get into opera you have to see it also so I agree with the above suggestion about renting videos...or better yet...depending on where you live or can travel, go see the operas live...I have seen a dozen or so and find that it can be very hit or miss...but the experience is so much more than just the music...same way as a Grateful Dead show (with Garcia)...unless you go, you really dont get the whole experience.
avguygeorge
2,300 posts
 
I think the best introduction to opera has to be from the movie "Aria" This is available on cd. You get a little of everybody. Including the best female ever; Lyonteen Price.Jessy Bourling. Sorry if the spelling isn't right. This could be called "Opera's greatest hits" ---"by the greatest singers".
khrys
446 posts
 
For a melancholic introspective opera try "Der Rosenkavalier" by Richard Strauss. Unrequited love has never been so melodically rendered as in this opera.
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