Artaxerxes

Released to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Thomas Arne, the composer of Rule, Britannia!, The Classical Opera Company presents the first complete recording of Artaxerxes. The original scores for the opera were burned in a fire in Drury Lane Theatre – only the orchestral parts and the libretto, and some of the music survived. Noted musicologist Duncan Druce recreated the Finale and the company's director Ian Page the recitatives for this, the new performing edition, which was premiered at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, in 2009. The opera contains several well-known arias, including 'The soldier tir'd', made famous by the late Joan Sutherland. 'Inspired singing.' The Guardian 'All credit to the Classical Opera Company for resurrecting a work brimming with delightful music.' Evening Standard 'I can't recommend this release too highly. It should be in the collection of every opera lover.' Audiophile Audition