Retrospect Opera have just released a new recording of works by Dibdin, composer of Tom Bowling, two "Table Entertainments" (short operas) and some songs. It's a bit earlier than my usual period, but looks like an interesting addition from a period in British opera of which hardly anything is ever heard.
Retrospect Opera are the group that gave us Smyth's "The Boatswain's Mate", which was really professionally recorded and produced, so I have high hopes for this.
If anyone is interested in them, they have a few projects going on, all related to British opera:
www.retrospectopera.org.uk.
Apparently they also have a special offer on at the moment.
I have the,long deleted,Hyperion recording of
Dibdin's The Ephesian Matron;
The Brickdust Man and
The Grenadier by
Opera Restor'd,and,I must say,I have found the enthusiastic performances of these pieces,highly enjoyable. Their Hyperion recording,also long deleted,of
Lampe's: Pyramus and Thisbe is even better,though. I played them both,recently. So,yes,imho,I think this is quite interesting. I probably won't rush out to buy it,though;as I have to watch the pennies a bit these days!! :(
