Mozart: Così fan tutte, K. 588

Mozart’s comic drama of mistaken identity, mistrust, and rekindled love finds a new champion in this sparkling recording from 2012. For one thing, the vocal dexterity on display is a delight: mezzo Angela Brower and soprano Miah Persson are magnificently mischievous in their duet “Prenderò quel brunettino.” And has there ever been a more heartfelt performance of Mozart’s masterful trio “Soave sia il vento” with its undulating, sensuous strings? Rolando Villazón\'s tenor voice is sweet as honey, his tender tribute to his wife’s fidelity, “Un’aura amorosa,” full of vocal contrast. The orchestra, meanwhile, are sharp as tacks—their ensemble is nearly perfect, as is their sensitivity to these wonderful singers.