Michael Spyres - Baritenor (LP)

Michael Spyres, the renowned American operatic baritenor, presents an extraordinary collection of arias with his album "Baritenor." This captivating album, released on September 24, 2021, under the Warner Classics label, showcases Spyres' remarkable vocal range and versatility, spanning three centuries of opera in Italian, French, and German. The album features 18 arias by 15 composers, performed with the Orchestre Philharmonique de Strasbourg and the male chorus of Opera du Rhin, under the direction of Maestro Marko Letonja.

"Baritenor" is a testament to Michael Spyres' unique ability to sing repertoire typically designated for both tenors and baritones. The album opens with Mozart's "Fuor del mar" from "Idomeneo" and closes with Korngold's "Glück, das mir verblieb" from "Die tote Stadt," offering a journey through the evolution of opera. Highlights include Rossini's "Largo al factotum" from "Il Barbiere di Siviglia," Verdi's "Tutto è deserto" from "Il trovatore," and Offenbach's "Va! pour Kleinzach" from "Les Contes d'Hoffmann." Each aria is performed with Spyres' signature clarity, power, and expressive depth, accompanied by the rich orchestration and choral support.

With a duration of 1 hour and 24 minutes, "Baritenor" is an impressive display of Michael Spyres' artistry and the enduring appeal of opera. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the bel canto repertoire and the extraordinary talent of Michael Spyres.