normaLa Cieca (pictured) can hardly muster a messa di voce after the overwhelming torrent of entries in the “You Can Ring My Bel Canto” competition, but after hours of careful consideration and hobnobbing with my fellow doyennes, I have finally come do a decision as to who should be considered a prima inter pares. 

Best in show, and winner of the tickets to the July 16 Caramoor performance of Norma, is CerquettiFarrell for her three-pronged, four-diva analysis supported by well-selected clips.

Runners-up (and it should be remembered that this group placed only marginally ahead of more than a dozen superb entries) are the following:

Congratulations to all!

La Cieca

James Jorden (who wrote under the names "La Cieca" and "Our Own JJ") was the founder and editor of parterre box. During his 20 year career as an opera critic he wrote for the New York Times, Opera, Gay City News, Opera Now, Musical America and the New York Post. He also raised his voice in punditry on National Public Radio. From time to time he directed opera, including three unsuccessful productions of Don Giovanni. He also contributed a regular column on opera for the New York Observer. James died in October 2023.

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