Friday, July 23, 2010

Rolando Villazon

I remember the first day I heard a voice that really made me stop and listen. The lower registers and dark qualities along with the smooth transition up to the head register made for a wonderful and memorable experience indeed.

The great tenors ability to use expressiveness at will is another rare quality, considering it is flawless and there is nothing forced about it. But as I understand there was a period of concern, when he had an operation on his throat. Thank goodness the voice came through it unscathed.

Rolando Villazon really made the hairs on my neck stand up, as I watched and listened to him singing "Una Furtiva Lagrima" from L,Elisir D,amore by Gaetano Donizetti. His acting ability and general stage presence really adds to his performances.

Born in Mexico, Rolando is now a french citizen, he is also very much in demand around the major opera houses and other venues throughout the world. Mr Villazon was also prominent in the smash hit TV show, "Pop Star to Opera Star".

Another delight awaited me, as i watched and listened to Rolando along with an excellent soprano Anna Netrebko. They were performing in a film version of "La Boheme", the main arias were performed with passion and a wonderful vocal display was had by all. Not a dry eye in the house.

In conclusion and possibly stirring up a hornets nest, i have to make reference to another tenor Mario Lanza. I have always been a massive lanza fan, no one could come near to his powerful vocal display and emotional performance. That is until Rolando Villazon came onto the scene.

I still Love Lanza, but I truly believe Mr Villazon really outclasses Mario with his vocal abilities, and I do not say that lightly. Why not have a listen and make up your own mind. Whatever the outcome, your musical ear will have a feast of wonderful experiences.

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