ROSSINI: Guglielmo Tell - Cheryl Studer, Riccardo Muti, La Scala (2 DVD)

Rossini: Guglielmo Tell
Giorgio Zancanaro (Guglielmo Tell); Cheryl Studer (Matilde); Chris Merritt (Arnoldo);

Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala; Riccardo Muti

Riccardo Muti conducts a fine cast led by Giorgio Zancanaro in the title role of Rossini's towering and opulent last opera with the Corps de Ballet, Orchestra and Chorus of Teatro alla Scala. Sung in Italian with English subtitles.

Reviews
"The staging is fascinating. Vast panelled video screens provide the scenic backdrops. Videos of nature in all its glory are projected onto these. It makes for breathtaking effect, and the good news is that one does not tire of it. Muti conducts with real assurance. Pacing the drama magnificently, it is on performances like these that the controversial Maestro has made his well-deserved musical reputation. Tell emerges as a masterpiece from first to last. Rossini's compositional confidence in his craft is never once in doubt, and there is no trace of any longueur anywhere...This is a superb DVD. Tell is one of Rossini's masterpieces. The composer's inspiration never once flags. Do try to experience this treat." (Musicweb International)