 Review of the New Michael Maniaci CD
Michael Maniaci, male soprano. Mozart Arias for the Male Soprano. Boston Baroque, Martin Pearlman, director. Telarc: TEL-31827-02
Having received my copy of the new Michael Maniaci CD, I immediately listened to the disc with close attention. I generally am pleased with his performances and the recording quality. My having heard Michael live (Lucia Silla) and also in recordings previously, I was prepared for his voice, being aware of his heavier than desirable vibrato and occasional pitch difficulties, especially with higher, louder notes that I have heard before. I was relieved to note that Michael seems to have developed further his technical skills, thereby improving his pitch control and somewhat reducing his vibrato. I noted also that he apparently judiciously selected vocal works that generally were slower and more sonorous, where he does better, as opposed the very acrobatic, loud, or high works. We are not hearing a “Farinelli” on this disc; however, all in all, those of us who are interested in the high male voice are thankful that Michael finally has released a solo CD.
The written notes were interesting but somewhat limited. As pointed out in the article “The High Male Voice: An Introduction” posted on this site, careful studies have resulted in a greater understanding of the castrato voice than indicated in these notes. There is one minor error: Alessandro Moreschi ceased singing at the Sistine in 1913, not 1903.
My guess is a number of this site’s members will be interested in acquiring this new CD; therefore, I have provided the order information.
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