About this Artist

• Biography

Editorial Reviews

Originally released in 1998 and reissued in 2005 as part of Linus Records' complete career overview of the Toronto-based classical-folk group Quartetto Gelato, Aria Fresca was the quartet's final album with founder and leader Claudio Vena. The album mostly consists of vocal showcases for tenor Peter DeSotto, familiar arias adapted from various operas (mostly Italian) to fit their idiosyncratic and ever-shifting style. All members of Quartetto Gelato double or triple on their instruments (even DeSotto, who plays violin and mandolin in addition to singing), which gives the album a much more varied sound than similar groups can manage. Primary arranger Vena also gets to stretch out a bit, first with a fully orchestral collaboration with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra on Puccini's "Prelude and Aria Nessun' Dorma" from Turandot and next with his composition "Tango Solitario," an homage to Astor Piazzolla that features his own accordion playing against George Meanwell's canny cello counterpoint. A diverse and enjoyable set, Aria Fresca is a worthy capper to the first stage of Quartetto Gelato's career. ~ Stewart Mason, All Music Guide All Music Guide

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