The Furkids team were very excited by the wonderful response to their first opera-themed episode last week, so much so, they decided to follow up with an operatic duet.
The aria chosen by the furkids is “Barcarolle” from The Tales of Hoffmann, the last and greatest opera by Jacques Offenbach. The origin of the barcarolle is the Italian barcarola (from barca meaning ‘boat’), a traditional folk song sung by Venetian gondoliers. The popularity of the ballads influenced composers to write their own barcarolles.
In this recording, the duet is sung in French by Russian operatic soprano Anna Netrebko and Latvian operatic lyric mezzo-soprano Elīna Garanča.
The orchestral introduction is almost a minute long so I recommend watching the video while they play. When Elīna begins to sing, that will be your queue to begin scrolling through the illustrated lyrics as you sing along to the furkids’ best English translation. Enjoy!
{{{Michelle}}} sometimes habits sneak up on you. Mopshell Monday is in full force right now. This is lovely. Of course. And sweet. And fun. Thank you. Skritches to Ms. Loula and moar {{{HUGS}}} to you.
What a beautiful gift! Thank you Michelle ????????????????
What a lovely gift to all of us. Thank you!
Oh, Mopsy! You outdo yourself every time! I was really struck by how expressive the animals are and how much their images expressed the lyrics. Just stunning!
(((((((Michelle)))))))) Thanks so much for such a beautiful aria. It truly is exquisite. Your education and intellect are on full display every time you bring the furkids, or write a solo article about anything.