Stravinsky's Mavra marks one of the composer's first forays into the world of neo-classicism as well as a stab at the opera buffa tradition. Like many of Stravinsky's neoclassical works, it is filled with the composers unique sense of humor and mocks the traditions of the 19th century as much as it honors them. This performance, sung in Italian, features a quartet of singers who do much to advocate for the work. The biggest name is Fedora Barbieri who wields her oversized mezzo and personality to great comic effect. Gianna Galli is also quite good as Baracha.

BONUS:
Fedora Barbieri sings excerpts from Orfeo ed Euridice, Medea, Il Trovatore and Aida.