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
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