Anna Netrebko, Rolando Villazón and Thomas Hampson captivated the world of opera in summer 2005 with sensational performances in the Salzburg Festival's new Traviata. With seven times more demand than available tickets and rumours that on the black market prices were reaching thousands of euros, this Salzburg Traviata was the hottest ticket since the days of Karajan. The cast was led by Anna Netrebko (Violetta), Rolando Villazón (Alfredo) and Thomas Hampson (Giorgio). Carlo Rizzi conducted the Wiener Philharmoniker. Rolando Villazón has just signed an exclusive recording contract with Deutsche Grammophon that will begin on the completion of his current contract with Virgin Classics.