Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Gian Carlo Menotti (1911-2007) was a prolific composer who is best known for one piece: 'Amahl And The Night Visitors' which he wrote in 1951. Regardless of any musical worth this is a significant composition as it was the first opera written for television and, in terms of concert performances, it must be up there with 'Porgy And Bess' as the most popular of American operas. Just in case you are one of the few never to have seen it, the story concerns a crippled boy, Amahl (the treble Ike Hawkersmith), and his mother who are visited by three mysterious strangers who are following a star. You get the picture and I won't spoil the ending for you by writing any more about the plot. The singing is good throughout and Mother, played by Alaskan mezzo-soprano Kirsten Gunlogson, is superb. Indeed one could almost say she is too good as the other soloists come across as being competent musical performers whereas Gunlogson sounds like a true diva (in the best sense of the word). The Nashville Symphony Orchestra and Chorus provide sterling accompaniment to what is a humorous and poignant story that richly deserves its popularity. The opera lasts just 49 minutes so the CD also includes Menotti's touching "My Christmas" from 1987 and there is even a free download of "The Three Kings" by Cornelius available for those who purchase the CD. And, as ever, at the super-budget price from Naxos, it is well worth it.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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