OPERA TRANSCRIPTIONS (ARBAN, CACCIAMANI, FORESTIER, ROSSARI, SPIGA, VERDI, ZANICHELLI)

Here’s an unexpected but entertaining programme of operatic transcriptions by largely unfamiliar names performed with discernible pleasure and not a little gusto by Marco Arlotti – on a delightfully nimble 1874 organ by Adeodato Bossi-Urbani – and Michele Santi on a selection of period trumpets. Stealing the limelight are two Rossini transcriptions: a delightfully knowing reworking of themes from Il barbiere di Siviglia by Joseph Forestier and a rousing treatment of an air from La cenerentola by Jean-Baptiste Arban. Verdi, Donizetti and Bellini also put in appearances on an enjoyable disc that disappoints only in its occasionally cloudy sound.

MICHAEL QUINN Read the full review on Agora Classica