VERDI: La Traviata
The complete opera plus bonus introduction CD
8.660922-24

This set combines an acclaimed complete recording of Verdi's La Traviata, starring Monika Krause and Yordy Ramiro, with a fascinating companion CD from the Opera Explained series on Naxos Educational. The Opera Explained CD introduces, in words and music, the plot and background of La Traviata using the principal themes and arias taken from the complete work. Whether listening to the opera for the first time or discovering more about the history and structure of this masterly work, this is an innovative and easy way to deepen an appreciation of Verdi's genius.

La Traviata owes its enduring popularity to a superb story of young love and fatal sacrifice, set to music by Italy's master melodist at the peak of his powers. The central figure is Violetta, a beautiful courtesan who is suffering from consumption. She falls in love with admirer Alfredo, a rich nobleman whose father disapproves of the match. Interest and poignancy are added by the fact that the opera is based on a true story - La Dame aux camélias by Alexandre Dumas.