For Joyce –
I actually hadn’t heard of Ombra Mai Fu, and had to do some research (so thank you, because I found a new favorite). It is is the opening aria from the 1738 opera Serse by George Frideric Handel and is quite lovely. I don’t think they sound too similar, but then again, some of his work seems, at times, repetitive (forgive me, Handel).
I just wanted to post three more selections from Handel, in honor of Joyce.
Ombra Mai Fu – This is Dmitri Hvorostovsky in Cardiff 1989, bad video quality and it cuts off abruptly, but it’s a little taste and WHAT a voice!
Water Music – Performed by The King’s Consort and Conducted by Robert King
Finally, if you don’t have time for anything else – THIS is worth a listen and a watch.
Music for the Royal Fireworks – From the Queen’s Jubilee Concerts, Buckingham Palace(2002) conducted by Andrew Davis.
Tamarack Idea Factory 