IAF releases Produces CD of Francesco Paolo Tosti Performed by Lawrence Harris

The Italian Academy Foundation, Inc. (IAF) has produced a new CD entitled Romanze, the songs by Francesco Paolo Tosti (1846-1916), performed by baritone Lawrence Harris, accompanied by pianist Renee Guerrero.

The CD which includes 14 songs by the great Abruzzese master, born in Ortona al Mare in April 6, 1846, represents selections from his work dating from 1882 to 1912. The project undertaken by the IAF to sustain the works of Tosti in circulation was produced together with Pipestone Productions and Joseph Patrych studios.

Mr. Harris’s performances in opera houses around the world have earned him accolades for his rich baritone voice. He captured First Prize and the coveted Audience Favorite Award in the 2008 Altamura/Caruso International Voice Competition. The New York Times critic Bernard Holland hailed Mr. Harris as a “major voice”. Established overnight as an important new Verdi baritone, Mr. Harris, whose career spans over 30 roles, is widely praised as “a baritone with incredible dramatic intensity and enormous versatility.”