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The duet between Romeo and Tebaldo would have to be one of my personal highlights from Bellini's treatment of Shakespeare. Dealing with the men's preparation for the duel (which never happens), not only is it musically rich (especially, the stretta with its' stunning immediacy of emotion), but the piece also abandons the classical central andante, replacing it with a dramatic dialogue between the rivals over a simple but effective funeral chorus, lamenting Julietta's supposed death (accompanied suggestively only by harp, further highlighting the drama); divides the stretta into two contrasting sections: two sustained ariosos for both the men shocked by the tragic news and the stretta proper (here taken a bit too slow for my tastes, though this decision makes it more lyrical), as both men express their compassion for each other's plight.

Two talented tenors in their prime, Giacomo Aragall and Luciano Pavarotti, provide much vocal excitement, while managing to communicate ideally their characters' feelings. Hope you'll enjoy :).