Abstract
Argentinian countertenor Franco Fagioli is celebrated worldwide for his interpretations of Handel and Rossini. At the Zurich Opera House, he now presents a program that explores the full breadth of Italian bel canto singing. Arias by Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini represent the late flowering of a long vocal tradition that began in the 17th century – closely linked to the distinctive timbre of the castrati and countertenors of that era. In the first part of the program, Franco Fagioli showcases arias by Cavalli, Cesti, Scarlatti, and Lotti—some of the most influential Italian opera composers of the time. He is accompanied on piano by Michele D’Elia.