Just when you question the need for yet another recording of . . .(fill in the blank), you hear something–a recording such as this one–that not only erases your doubts, but also reminds you why you keep coming back for more: the performer. You have your favorite works, but you’re always curious when someone new performs them; and you even have your favorite version of a particular work, but there’s always a chance someone else will come along and give you that sit-up-and-notice reaction. That’s what happened here, although I shouldn’t have been surprised: Here are two of the world’s finest singers performing one of the most exquisite vocal duets ever written. Although Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater has been recorded many times with countertenor, there’s no countertenor like Andreas Scholl, and his silken instrument is a perfect match for Barbara Bonney’s golden-toned soprano. But this recording is more than just beautiful voices. Both singers seem to share an interpretive vision of the work that, along with the sensitive orchestral accompaniment, adds even more luster to the vocal virtuosity. The two solo Salve Reginas are a nice addition, giving each singer a chance to shine alone. Scholl’s sublime “O clemens” should have ended the program; nothing more need be heard after this. I won’t give up my still-favorite version of the Stabat Mater, with Dorothea Röschmann, Catherine Robbin, and Les Violons du Roy (Dorian), but now I can’t live without this one, either.
