Juliane Banse and Shawn Mathey take the lead roles in this performance of Robert Schumann's only opera, featuring the opera and chorus of the Zurich Opera House, conducted by Nikolaus Harnoncourt.

The enduring popularity of Rossini's operas is a testament to their wit and inventiveness, every overture a superb portrait of each ensuing drama. There is none more popular than the farcical comedy of Il barbiere di Siviglia, but themes of flirtation and disguise can also be found in Il Turco in Italia, contrasting with the heroism and revenge of Armida and the cunning exploits of Le Comte Ory.

A live recording from the opening night of the Rossini Opera Festival in 2008, featuring the Italian mezzo-soprano Sonia Ganassi in the title role, with Claudio Abbado's son Danielle directing the production.

Conductor Valerio Galli leads the orchestra and chorus of the Festival Puccini, in this version of the Italian composer's popular opera.