Elīna’s Aria

by Maya

Last week I wrote about the mezzo-soprano Elīna Garanča whom I would love to see as Carmen on stage.

For the past week I have been listening to her interpretation of Heitor Villa-Lobos’  Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5 suite (Aria (Cantilena)) and I still can’t get enough. Every time I hear this piece it tears my heart apart because it is so achingly beautiful. I just want to melt into this music.
Although the aria was originally written for soprano and 8 cellos I love Elīna Garanča’s mezzo voice in this one. My knowledge and understanding of classical music is rather limited so all my musings may sound a little pretentious but to me her interpretation is simply stunning. Her voice sounds so warm and heartbreakingly emotional. I have listened to other versions of this piece (including the one sung by Victoria de los Ángeles) but this one is by far my favourite. (But as I’ve already said, I am not a pro.)

The Brazilian composer Heitor Villa-Lobos wrote the 9 Bachianas Brasileiras suites between 1930 and 1945. The Aria is actually the most famous of the suites and I can totally understand why.

Enjoy!

Elīna’s Carmen

by Maya

From my review of Puccini’s Turandot you would know about my current fascination with opera and Bizet’s Carmen is top of my list of “must see” operas. The Latvian Elīna Garanča is currently one of the most celebrated mezzo-sopranos around. She has received considerable acclaim for her portrayal of Carmen at the Met.

I think her voice is absolutely beautiful and her performance of the legendary ”Habanera” is stunning. I would love to see her on stage.