Paolo Tosti, a composer featured on this album, was appointed professor of singing to Princess Margherita of Savoy, who later became the Queen of Italy.
Historical Context
The late 19th century was the peak era for drawing-room ballads, driven by rising prosperity, widespread piano ownership, and an international publishing infrastructure.
Composer Biography
Paolo Tosti settled in London in 1880, became singing teacher to the British royal family, and was knighted by King Edward VII in 1908.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The songs of Tosti, Mascagni, and Donaudy on this album generally express various aspects of love, from enchantment and kisses to longing and loss.
Performer Biography
David Abramovitz, the pianist, received a Fulbright scholarship in 1970 to study in Rome and later worked with Nadia Boulanger in Paris.
Performer Biography
Stefano Secco, the tenor on this recording, studied privately with renowned masters such as Franco Corelli and Franca Mattiucci.
Cultural Impact
Paolo Tosti's influence as a composer was so significant that it led to the creation of a distinct musical genre known as the 'ballad alla Tosti'.
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