I due Figaro

"Once you're accustomed to the Rossini-isms in I due Figaro, Mercadante emerges, however intermittently, as his own man during the many ensembles ... Muti casts smaller voices than what's typical in Mozart and Rossini but often with dark colouring ... Antonio Poli's Count has an extremely attractive tenor".

"In Mercadante's extension of the Figaro story, of which this is the first recording, Count and Countess Almaviva have a daughter, Inez, who is in love with Cherubino, now a colonel ... Muti must be acknowledged for his resurrection of the opera .. and for his conducting of the bubbling music, with a softer touch for the quieter sections ... The Luigi Cherubini Youth Orchestra members do themselves proud ... Buratto's bright tone suits Susanna, having the necessary agility ... Praise to Ducale for another enjoyable bel canto rarity to add to one's collection".