Massenet: Don Quichotte
Ferruccio Furlanetto (Don Quichotte), Anna Kiknadze (Dulcinée) & Andrei Serov (Sancho Panza)
Mariinsky Academy of Young Singers Ensemble & Mariinsky Orchestra & Soloists, Valery Gergiev
Furlanetto’s basso cantante makes a fine compromise [between Ghiaurov and van Dam] – rich but smooth in fluent French – and Valery Gergiev whips up the score more vigorously than either predecessor…Gergiev has excellent surround sound, and this new version comes recommended –BBC MUSIC MAGAZINE
[Furlanetto’s] dark round tone is perfect for the role. He can’t resist uttering his trademark sob now and then but much can be forgiven for his beautiful legato…Furlanetto’s combination of sadness and dignity is most affecting…Anna Kiknadze finds heart as well as frivolity in Dulcinee’s music. Gergiev and his chorus and orchestra are on fine form and the recorded sound, in the experienced hands of James Mallinson, is excellent. –-GRAMOPHONE