Crescentini, the Castrato of Napoleon

Concert

Crescentini, the Castrato of Napoleon

Cast

Presentation

Homepage Crescentini, the Castrato of Napoleon

Cast

Franco Fagioli Countertenor

Orchestre de l’Opéra Royal

Under the high patronage of Madame Aline Foriel-Destezet

Stefan Plewniak Soloist and conductor

Presentation

The castrato Girolamo Crescentini (1762-1846) was the last true star of his vocal category, which disappeared at the beginning of the 19th century. The greatest Italian composers wrote operas specifically for him: Cherubini (Pimmalione, 1809), Cimarosa (Gli Orazi e i Curiazi, 1796), and especially Zingarelli (Giulietta e Romeo, 1796) brought Crescentini to European fame, from Milan to Vienna and Paris, performing the great heroic roles. Napoleon often wept upon hearing him and gave him the greatest honors and affection.

Here, he is embodied by a singer unmatched today for his vast vocal range, virtuosity, and expressiveness, which bring the first bel canto to life at its pinnacle. Franco Fagioli thus magnificently bridges the tradition of the castratos and the great singers of the following century.

With the exceptional support of Madame Aline Foriel-Destezet

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