Puccini: Il Tabarro

1. Il tabarro (The Cloak), opera
   Composed by Giacomo Puccini
   Performed by Bavarian Radio Chorus, Munich Radio Orchestra
   with Siegmund Nimsgern, Karin Hautermann, Ilona Tokody, Ulrich Ress, Gerhard Auer, Giorgio Lamberti, Vera Baniewicz, Tullio Pane, Heinrich Weber
   Conducted by Giuseppe Patane
   
   

Puccini: Il Tabarro,Gerhard Auer,Giacomo Puccini,Giuseppe Patane,Vera Baniewicz,Bavarian Radio Chorus,Münchner Rundfunkorchester,Ilona Tokody,Karin Hautermann,Giorgio Lamberti,Heinrich Weber,Tullio Pane,Ulrich ReB,Ulrich Ress,Siegmund Nimsgern,RCA,Classical,Classical Music,Italian Romantic Opera,Opera,Opera / Operetta / Oratorio

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Average customer rating: Bravo The best Suor Angelica is in Pappano's Trittico Just maybe the greatest recorded "Trittico" ever Life--It hits you hard Long overdue...

Puccini - Il Trittico / Alagna, Gheorghiu, Guelfi, Guleghina, Gallardo-Domás, Manca di Nissa, Palmer, Shicoff, van Dam, Pappano Giacomo Puccini , Antonio Pappano , Roberto Alagna , Angela Gheorghiu , Bernadette Manca di Nissa , Felicity Palmer , José van Dam , Carlo Guelfi , Maria Guleghina , Cristina Gallardo-Domas , Neil Shicoff , Francesca Pedaci , Patrizia Ciofi , Roberto Scaltriti , Dorothea Röschmann , Sara Fulgoni , and Philharmonia Orchestra Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | Box Sets | Stores | Music Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Puccini - La Rondine / Gheorghiu · Alagna · Matteuzzi · Mula · Rinaldi · Ciofi · Bacelli · LSO · Pappano Verdi - Don Carlo / Domingo · Caballé · Raimondi · Milnes · Verrett · Estes · Giulini Verdi - Simon Boccanegra / Freni, Cappuccilli, Carreras, Ghiaurov, van Dam, Foiani, Teatro alla Scala, Abbado Handel - Julius Caesar / Treigle · Sills · Forrester · Wolff · NYCO · Rudel Rossini: The Barber Of Seville with Maria Callas, Tito Gobbi, Alceo Galliera, Philharmonia Orchestra & Chorus ASIN: B00000IFQ0 Release Date: 1999-04-06

Tracks:

1. Il Tabarro - Orchestra
2. Il Tabarro - O Michele? Michele?
3. Il Tabarro - O Luigi, ancora una passata
4. Il Tabarro - Dunque, che cosa credi?
5. Il Tabarro - O eterni innamorati, buona sera!
6. Il Tabarro - To'! guarda la mia vecchia!
7. Il Tabarro - Hai ben ragione; meglio non pensare
8. Il Tabarro - Segui il mio esempio; bevil!
9. Il Tabarro - E ben altro il mio sogno!
10. Il Tabarro - Miei vecchi, buona notte!
11. Il Tabarro - O Luigi! Luigi!
12. Il Tabarro - Dimmi: perche gli hai chiesto di sbarcarti a Rouen?
13. Il Tabarro - Come e difficile esser felici!
14. Il Tabarro - Sgualdrina!... Bocca di rosa fresca
15. Il Tabarro - Nulla!... Silenzio!
16. Il Tabarro - T'ho colto!... Sangue di Dio!
17. Il Tabarro - Avevo ben ragione

Tracks:

1. Suor Angelica - Ave Maria
2. Suor Angelica - Sorelle in umilita
3. Suor Angelica - Ed or, sorelle in gioia
4. Suor Angelica - I desideri sono i fiori dei vivi
5. Suor Angelica - Ho un desiderio anchi'io!
6. Suor Angelica - Suor Angelica, sentite!
7. Suor Angelica - Laudata Maria!
8. Suor Angelica - Chi e venuto stasera in parlatorio?
9. Suor Angelica - Suor Angelica!... Madre, madre, parlate!
10. Suor Angelica - Il Principe Gualtiero vostro padre
11. Suor Angelica - Nel silenzio di quei raccoglimenti
12. Suor Angelica - Tutto ho offerto all Vergine
13. Suor Angelica - Orchestra
14. Suor Angelica - Senza mamma, bimbo, tu sei morto
15. Suor Angelica - Sorella, o buona sorella
16. Suor Angelica - La grazia e discesa dal cielo!... [Intermezzo]...
17. Suor Angelica - Suor Angelica ha sempre una ricetta buona
18. Suor Angelica - Ah! Son dannata!

Tracks:

1. Gianni Schicchi - Povero, Buoso!
2. Gianni Schicchi - O Simone?
3. Gianni Schicchi - E aperto!
4. Gianni Schicchi - Dunque era vero!
5. Gianni Schicchi - C'e una persona sola che ci puo consigliare
6. Gianni Schicchi - Avete torto!
7. Gianni Schicchi - Firenze e come un albero fiorito
8. Gianni Schicchi - Quale aspetto sgomento e desolato!
9. Gianni Schicchi - Brava la vecchia
10. Gianni Schicchi - O mio babbino caro
11. Gianni Schicchi - Datemi il testamento!
12. Gianni Schicchi - Nessuno sa che Buoso ha resto il fiato
13. Gianni Schicchi - Era eguale la voce?
14. Gianni Schicchi - In testa la capellina!
15. Gianni Schicchi - Schicchi! Schicchi!
16. Gianni Schicchi - Ecco la cappellina!
17. Gianni Schicchi - Prima un avvertimento!
18. Gianni Schicchi - Addio, Firenze
19. Gianni Schicchi - Ecco il notaro!
20. Gianni Schicchi - Basta! I testi videro
21. Gianni Schicchi - Lascio a Simone I beni di Fucecchio
22. Gianni Schicchi - Ladro
23. Gianni Schicchi - Lauretta, mia Lauretta!

Amazon.com essential recording

Aficionados are familiar with Puccini's Il Trittico or "Triptych," his three one-act operas that premiered at New York's Metropolitan in 1918; everyday opera lovers should know them as well. Here is Puccini at his most imaginative: Il Tabarro, a shocker about the jealousy of an older man towards his deceitful younger wife on a houseboat on the Seine is dark and foreboding, and is, incidentally, probably his greatest, tightest opera. It is given a superb performance here, with Maria Guleghina and the wonderful Neil Shicoff (the true, underrecorded fourth tenor) as the faithless duo and Carlo Guelfi as the pitiable but murdering husband. Suor Angelica is set in a convent (yes, only women's voices). Until the goings turn tragic--the eponymous heroine is told by her cruel aunt that the child she had out of wedlock and gave up has died--the scoring is light, airy, and pure. Cristina Gallardo-Domas and Bernadette Manca di Nissa as the nun and her aunt, respectively, may not have the vocal glamour or depth of some of their predecessors on CD (Renata Scotto or Christa Ludwig), but their beautiful, meaningful singing carries the show. Gianni Schicchi's soundstage (the bedroom of a recently dead rich man in Florence in 1299, peopled by his greedy relatives) is rambunctious for the composer's only foray into comedy--based on a passage from Dante--and this set comes up roses. It's the best one on records. Jose Van Dam actually is funny and Angela Gheorghiu and Roberto Alagna (who also offer a cameo in Tabarro) are super as the young lovers; Gheorghiu's singing of the opera's hit, "O mio babbino caro," is glorious. This set is highly recommended. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Bravo.......2007-06-11

Very good performances of all three one-acts. Good sound quality, and the orchestra performance is top-notch.

The best Suor Angelica is in Pappano's Trittico.......2005-08-26

This review compares three of the recordings of Suor Angelica, with the finding that the recording of this miniature gem in the boxed set of Puccini's Il Trittico conducted by Antonio Pappano far exceeds the others in various qualities.

The best first. The vocal performances of both the title role (Cristina Gallardo-Domas) and la Zia Principessa (Bernadette Manca di Nissa) offer a great breadth of interpretation and an honest and true attention to pure vocal production. I have the very slightest of quibbles with one specific response from Gallardo-Domas' Angelica to her aunt, "La Vergine ci ascolta e Lei vi giudica!" is offered much too anglrily, where the score is marked "coldly." The wonderful choral work that supports the action and provides so much of the exposition is a well-modulated performance of Puccini's best writing for women's voices in non-starring roles. Indeed, the balance between the soloists, chorus, and orchestra is keenly maintained througout, ever allowing the orchestra and chorus to be equals to the soloists. Lastly, Pappano's pacing seems the most accomplished of all the recordings.

The worst second. The performance of the Rome Opera Orchestra & Chorus with Fedora Barbieri and Victoria de Los Angeles is frightful. The balance is muddy, and the soloists are miked so closely that they become strident. Worse yet is that the editing was inattentive, and several badly pitched tones made their way to the final recording. --And the pitch problems continue throughout, sometimes sharp, sometimes flat. The chorus members' diction is almost slurred, and a sloppy ensemble results in many nice melodies being unintelligible.

The most surprising recording is conducted by Richard Bonynge and stars Joan Sutherland and Christ Ludwig. As another reviewer noted, Dame Sutherland is past her prime, recording the role at age 52. If only we had a recording of Angelica from her at 30! As it is, I believe Richard Bonynge is the one driving a stake through the heart of this work. His readings alternate between a rush through lyric passages and tearing through the recitativo segments at a full tilt. But it seems so strange because the balance favors the women's voices, making the orchestra extraordinarily subservient. Finally, the performances in general seem less than committed. For example, Sutherland lacks both the fire and the meek submissiveness that should complicate the character.

Just maybe the greatest recorded "Trittico" ever.......2003-10-09

Like another previous reviewer, I too came to this set feeling that the old Tito Gobbi recording was something very special, and hard to beat. And it still has a special place in my collection. But this set is exceptional on all counts; it is superbly recorded, the soloists are wonderful, and Pappano's pacing throughout is just glorious...here is a conductor who understands, and has a love for this music. Furthermore, the older Gobbi set is hard to find, and only "Schicchi" is in true stereo. In short, you will not go wrong with these lovely, sensitive recordings. Better yet, get these and the older set if you can find it, and you'll never want for any more.

Life--It hits you hard.......2002-06-16

Once upon a time I was traversing an Interstate Highway on an otherwise uneventful day and Bamm! the sweet intonations of the female soloist singing in the most heavenly voice (by the way not THIS reviewed rendition), was being delivered by the most crappy Amplitude Modulated car radio. I was so mesmorized by the sweet sounds I was hearing that I pulled off the Interstate and just listened. For an hour I just listened. The Opera was 'Suor Angelica'.

I have this particular CD and it is recorded better than the version I had experienced. Yet the rendition I had experienced set me on the path of discovery.

Music is like that.

Long overdue..........2002-05-21

A modern recording of Il Trittico was long overdue, and has been fulfilled magnificently by Alagna, Georghiu, Pappano et al. The only negative reviewer of this disc really criticizes the composer (who he thinks is Verdi!) rather than the performances themselves. But, the question for a review is not "is this a good opera?" That is for the purchaser. Rather, the issue is, given that the purchaser wishes to purcahse a recording of the opera, is it a good recording. This is an excellent one and anyone interested should not hesitate.

Average customer rating: Very Bad Different is not always bad! Pay special attention to this new promise ! A tenor who wishes he were a baritone Finally, a SPINTO tenor!!!

Jose Cura - Puccini Arias / Domingo Giacomo Puccini , London Philharmonia Orchestra , Plácido Domingo , and Jose Cura Manufacturer: Erato ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Cura, José | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Tenors | Voices | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Artist Portrait Jose Cura Verdi Arias Anhelo: Argentinian Songs Verismo Boleros ASIN: B000005E5L Release Date: 1997-10-28

Tracks:

1. Turandot (Act III): Nessun dorma
2. Turandot (Act I): Non piangere Liu!
3. Gianni Schicchi: Avete torto! - Firenze ome un albero fiorito
4. Il Tabarro: Hai ben ragione
5. Il Tabarro: Io voglio la tua bocca - Folle di gelosia
6. La Rondine (Act I): Parigi! a cittei desideri
7. La Rondine (ActIII): Dimmi che vuoi seguirmi
8. La Fanciulla del West (Act II): Una parola sola - Or son sei mesi
9. La Fanciulla del West (Act III): Risparmiate lo scherno - Ch'ella mi creda
10. Madame Butterfly (Act I): Dipende dal grado di cottura - Amore o grillo
11. Madame Butterfly (Act III): Addio fiorito asil
12. Tosca (Act I): Recondita armonia
13. Tosca (Act III): E lucevan le stelle
14. La Boh (Act I): Che gelida manina
15. Manon Lescaut (Act I): Tra voi, belle
16. Manon Lescaut (Act I): Donna non vidi mai
17. Manon Lescaut (Act II): Ah, Manon mi tradisce
18. Manon Lescaut (Act III): Ah! non v'avvicinate! - No, pazzo son
19. Manon Lescaut (Act IV): Manon...senti, amor mio - Vedi, son io che piango
20. Edgar (Act II): Orgia, chimera dall'occhio vitreo
21. Le Villi (Act II): Ecco la casa - Torna ai felici di

Amazon.com essential recording

Good tenors are always in short supply, a particularly lamentable circumstance given the great demand for them in the operatic and symphonic repertoire. Thus, the advent of a good young tenor is always cause for rejoicing. A tenor of the caliber of Jose Cura--a composer, conductor and guitarist as well as a singer--is really good news. There is nothing wimpy about Cura's singing, nothing strained; he sings with baritonal beef and strong, chesty high notes. A protege of Placido Domingo, he shares some qualities with the older tenor, but is definitely an artist with something to say for himself. This is a career to watch. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Very Bad.......2007-03-29

First of all, his voice does not suit for Puccini(I do not know what is fitting for him). If you buy this cd, you may listen the worst "Non piangere liu" "E Lucevan Stella" etc. He can not bring a little emotion. But Puccini demands it.

Different is not always bad!.......2006-11-26

It's very interesting to read all the reviews smashing Jose Cura for his "baritone-like" voice and supposed stiff and unvaried interpretation. The first opera I ever saw was The Washington Opera's 1997 production of Samson et Dalila (I was 13) with Jose Cura and Denyce Graves. Immediately I was converted into an opera lover! (specifically an opera-goer-lover) I don't necessarily like listening to all opera, and a lot of singer's voices still annoy me, but Jose Cura's voice is different (the source of much of the controversy...). The richness and deep quality of his voice that so contrasts with most tenor's voices (which can be rather squeaky at times) is what attracts me. And you should see this man act! A refreshing experience against the stereotypical stiff opera singer standing in the middle of the stage bellowing his/her lungs out. So please, try to actually see the man before you form an unshakeable opinion. I think his voice alone is gorgeous (especially with Puccini's incomparable work!), but pared with his charisma and ability on stage, it's irresistable.

Pay special attention to this new promise !.......2006-06-30

A talented artist, a potent and polished voice emerges to satisfy the Opera lovers all over the world.

Jose Cura is nowadays, one the most prominent figures of the Bel Canto. His charismatic presence and his timber have deserved him the best praises all over the world.

In this opportunity we may listen him singing a selection of Puccini's Arias, accompanied by Placido Domingo with the Philharmonia orchestra, a magnificent occasion to enjoy his art and impeccable timber.

A tenor who wishes he were a baritone.......2005-12-14

I bought this CD because I love Puccini above all other composers, due to the sheer emotion that he could put into his music. I also wanted to hear Placido Domingo conduct and I'm always on the lookout for a good tenor. However, this is not the CD to buy if you're looking for a good tenor. I can't help but agree with the reviewer who gave only one star, at first Jose Cura sounds great. But after I really listened I had to change my opinion. Cura sings ridiculously heavy to be a tenor. If you listen to him with the mindset that this is a tenor it's really laughable how heavy and pressed his voice is. I was reminded of Placido Domingo (Ugh) or Franco Corelli who also depressed his larynx giving him a very baritonal sound but by the time he was in his forties, when most voices really blossom, his was declining do to the tremendous weight he sang with. Cura scoops up even to middle register notes because he is unable to start on the pitch, and has one tone to his voice (except when he goes bellow mezzo forte when he has almost no control) and very little in the way of vocal expression due to the restrictions this weight puts on the voice. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not usually an opera snob (I listen to and love Josh Groban, Russel Watson, and Andrea Bocelli), but Cura truly warranted a review. I gave it two stars because I didn't think Placido did a bad job at conducting (not the best by any means but certainly not bad) and despite everything I just said, I really like Cura's performance of Nessun Dorma (I don't get why it's weak).

Finally, a SPINTO tenor!!!.......2005-10-14

I am SO happy that there is finally a tenor out there with the vocal power to sing over a Puccini orchestra but still keep the lyricism for the upper register! If your preference is for a sweeter, lighter sound, check out recordings of Carlo Bergonzi and Roberto Alagna. This is a voice meant for singing over large orchestras with some "muscle" in the low register and the ability to make high notes soar. (It also doesn't hurt that Sr. Cura is as gorgeous as his voice! :) )

Average customer rating: Wow! Bastianini can really sing! a voice of gold The gift from the Heaven supreme beauty Non ti scordar!

Ettore Bastianini in Recital Manufacturer: Myto Records Italy ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Leoncavallo | Leoncavallo, Ruggiero | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Ponchielli | Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Bastianini, Ettore | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Verdi: Rigoletto Robert Merrill Recital: Piero Cappuccilli Verdi: La Forza del Destino Robert Merrill: Arias from Otello, Un Ballo in Maschera, Il Trovatore ASIN: B000001MKV Release Date: 2000-09-09

Tracks:

1. Il Barbiere Di Siviglia: Largo Al Factotum
2. La Forza Del Destino: Urna Fatale
3. Un Ballo In Maschera: Alzati/La Tuo Figlio
4. Un Ballo In Maschera: Eri Tu Che Macchiavi
5. Otello: Vanne/La Tua Meta Gia Vedo
6. Otello: Credo In Un Dio Crudel
7. Don Carlo: O Carlo, Ascolta
8. Rigoletto: Cortigiani, Vil Razza Dannata
9. Andrea Chenier: Questo Azzurro Sofa
10. Andrea Chenier: Son Sessant' Anni/O Vecchio
11. Il Tabarro: Nulla!...Silenzio!...
12. Il Tabarro: T'ho Colto!
13. I Pagliacci: Prologo
14. Cavalleria Rusticana: Il Cavallo Scalpita
15. Cavalleria Rusticana: Oh! Il Signore Vi Manda
16. L' Amico Fritz: Per Voi/Ghiottoni Inutili
17. Lodoletta: Tel Dissi/Lodoletta
18. Le Maschere: Quella E Una Strada
19. Il Sogno
20. Non Posso Chiedervi
21. Eterna Memoria
22. Ovunque Tu

Customer Reviews:

Wow! Bastianini can really sing!.......2007-03-19

Ettore Bastianini is so awesome! The man could really sing, and I mean, really sing! His voice is so dark, so sexy, aristocratic, it sounds like bronze. He really was a vocal phenomenon. I was always interested in him; the rave reviews on amazon convinced me to purchase this CD, and I'm glad I did. His voice was gorgeous.

a voice of gold.......2003-02-23

I first heard Bastianini is Serafin's London recording of "La Boheme" with Carlo Bergonzi and Renata Tebaldi. I was impressed then and I still am now.
To possess such evenness in every part of one's range is nothing short of amazing. Bastianini's high notes are as rich as his lows and it is stunning to hear such brassiness in a baritone. A beautiful timbre is matched by peerless vocal skill; he is VERY well trained as a singer. Nothing is out of tune, a beat behind, or cut short for lack of air.
His opera buffo is superb; I wish there was a recording of "The Barber of Seville" with him in the title role. He truly has character when he sings comedic roles and his diction is impeccable; I don't think I've ever heard recitative done that quickly before. He is a little static and distant in "Eri tu" (I like it a little slower), but I think that, had he lived longer, he would have grown more into the role of Renato. Despite this, he is a true Verdi baritone singing with great civility and consistancy. Track 7 from "Don Carlo" shows this perfectly; easily some of the best lyrical phrasing on record.
Every song is done with perfect technique punctuated by great expression. He makes the change from technical singer to interpretive artist with considerable ease, especially in the last tracks which are live recordings of him in concert.
The orchestra and piano accompaniments are just that; accompaniments. And there is little effort made on the part of the conductors to intrude upon his singing. There is depth, but it quietly provides a very easy platform from which to simply listen to his voice and enjoy the sparkling clarity.
The recording quality is excellent mono that sounds like a very distant stereo instead of like someone singing into a box. There is very little static or hiss and the audience is barely audible at all.
Truly, an excellent (and rare) recording of a singer whose voice was a gift from God. It's a rather odd, but very special album that any opera buff should have.

The gift from the Heaven.......2000-06-06

Ettore was the best and the most incredible baritone of all time. This CD contains many of earlier recordings when he switched from bass to baritone. And he sang absolutely wonderful. He'll take you to heaven when you hear pieces from Forza, Ballo and all the rest. He would have been a great Iago. He proved in this CD. He also proved that he was a great comedian in Barbiere and Maschere. What a pleasure and the gift he'd left with us. I can't thank him enough!

supreme beauty.......2000-06-04

When I listened to Ettore Bastianini for the first time, I got very impressed with the pureness of his sound. His range was incredible and even though he started his career as a bass, his roles as a baritone are superb. His voice of supreme beauty reminds us that baritone's voices don't have to be limited and common. This recording is great. That "Si puo? is powerful. All the arias are performed with passion and beauty. Bastianini is a must to have baritone in all opera collections.

Non ti scordar!.......2000-04-14

While there have been a few great baritones since Ettore Bastianini's departure from the opera stage, I feel it would be a great loss if we allow his name to be forgotten. In a recent survey by Opera News magazine, Dmitri Hvorostovsky named Bastianini as his inspiration and singing role model, particularly emphasizing a certain "dark force" of his voice. This says a lot coming from today's leading baritone. Indeed, the beauty of the voice and the impeccable technique can be a point of standard for everyone who came after.

Bastianini started out as a bass before developing the powerful upper register to match his rich secure low notes. His baritone is, therefore, the darkest you would ever hear, with a possible exception of Renato Bruson. Yet high tessitura of Verdian arias presented no difficulty for him. On this disk the arias from Un Ballo, Otello, Rigoletto, and Don Carlo are presented in a sequence, all of the highest difficulty and all flawlessly executed. Bastianini must have been perfect on stage as well with sound so immense it overwhelms the recording system several times. His talents also shine in rarely performed arias from operas "Lodoletta", "Il Tabarro", and "L'Amico Fritz". There are four beautiful art songs at the end of the disk. While Bastianini was mostly famous for the sheer beauty of his voice, I found his characterizations to be wonderful as well. Just take Figaro's flamboyant swaggering introduction versus Iago's dark brooding credo. It really sounds like two different people singing. Without ever breaking the line or sacrificing the quality for the dramatic effect, he was able to convey the very nature of the character.

Needless to say, I would like to see more recordings become available of this magnificent baritone. Since he's featured on quite a few Decca releases of complete operas, perhaps the company would treat us with a compilation album? That would be most appreciated by everyone who wants to see the opera legends not perish from audience's memory. In a meanwhile, get this disk that has over 70 minutes of pure joy recorded on a surprisingly good level.

Average customer rating:

Live Recordings, 1967-68, Vol. 1 Manufacturer: Delta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Leoncavallo | Leoncavallo, Ruggiero | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Domingo, Placido | ( D ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Mascagni, Pietro | M to P | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Puccini, Giacomo | M to P | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Wagner, Richard | U to Z | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Vocal Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | U to Z | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music ASIN: B000001VMF Release Date: 1990-03-01

Average customer rating:

The Great Renata Tebaldi Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Boito, Arrigo | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Lehár, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Ponchielli | Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Tebaldi, Renata | ( T ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music ASIN: B00005UOLL Release Date: 2002-01-15

Tracks:

1. Gianni Schicchi: O Mio Babbino Caro
2. Tosca: Vissi D'arte
3. La Wally: Ebben?...Ne Andro Lontana
4. La Wally: Prendi, Fanciul, E Serbala!
5. La Gionconda: Suicidio!
6. Adriana Lecouvreur: I Fiori Offerti In Un'ora D'oblio...Poveri Fiori
7. Andrea Chenier: Ecco L'altare...Eravate Possente
8. Mefistofele: L'altra Notte In Fondo Al Mare
9. Suor Angelica: Senza Mamma, O Bimbo, Tu Sei Morto
10. Il Tabarro: Michele! Michele!...Avevo Ben Ragione...Si, Vicina
11. La Fanciulla Del West: Una Partita A Poker!
12. Turandot: Signore, Ascolta!
13. Turandot: Tu Che Di Gel Sei Cinta
14. La Boheme: Si. Mi Chiamano Mimi...O Soave Fanciulla

Tracks:

1. Aida: Ritorna Vincitor!
2. Il Trovatore: Tacea La Notte Placida
3. Verdi: Parigi, O Cara, Noi Lasceremo
4. La Forza Del Destino: Me Pellegrina Ed Orfana
5. La Forza Del Destino: Pace, Pace, Mio Dio!
6. Otello: Gia Nella Notte Densa
7. Don Carlo: Giustizia! O Sire
8. Un Ballo: Morro, Ma Prima In Grazia
9. Manon Lescaut: Sola, Perduta, Abbandonata
10. Madama Butterfly: 'Con Onor Muore'
11. La Regata Veneziana: Anzoleta Avanti La Regata
12. La Regata Veneziana: Anzoleta Co' Passa La Regata
13. La Regata Veneziana: Anzoleta Dopo La Regata
14. Die Lustige Witwe: Vilja-Lied

Average customer rating: You'll Love This The greatest tenor after Caruso at his best A priceless musical document The greatest lyric tenor ever, at the start of his career.

Giuseppe Di Stefano: The Early Years Manufacturer: Bongiovanni ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Giuseppe di Stefano the Early Years, Vol. II ASIN: B00000448G Release Date: 1996-08-01

Tracks:

1. L'arlesiana: E' la solita storia del pastore
2. L'amico Fritz: Ed anche Beppe amo
3. TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle
4. La Boheme: Che gelida manina
5. L'Elisir d'Amore: Una furtiva lacrima
6. Manon: Sogno
7. I pescatori di perle: Mi par d'udir ancora
8. Werther: Pouquoi me reveiller
9. Elegie
10. Si vous l'avez compris
11. Ninna nanna della vita
12. Santa Lucia
13. Musica proibita
14. Santa Lucia Luntana
15. Torna a Surriento
16. L'Elisir d'Amore: Voglio dire...lo stupendo elisir
17. L'Elisir d'Amore: La ra, la ra, la lera
18. L'Elisir d'Amore: Adina, credimi
19. L'Elisir d'Amore: Venti scudi
20. Il Tabarro: Hai ben ragione
21. Il Tabarro: Dimmi: perche, gli hai chiesto... Vorrei tenerti

Customer Reviews:

You'll Love This.......2002-01-19

Production values are awful, and sound quality is pretty bad. For all the world, it sounds like a silent film piano player with a guy singing...but I tell you, it's just about the greatest thing you've ever heard.

Around the third time I listened to this, I actually began to like the flaws; they became endearing. Reminds me of those 1/4 inch thick Carusso records I started out with, lo these many moons ago. Perfection...? Hell, it's for sure nothing here is flawless. It's just, well...flawless. Giuseppe at his youthful, incomparable best. Strong buy.

The greatest tenor after Caruso at his best.......1999-04-16

This record shows Di Stefano was in his prime at the age of 23 in 1944. Incomparable beauty of timbre, clarity of diction, sureness of interpretation, and amazing technical feats reminiscent of 19th century bel canto tenors. This recording should finally assure Di Stefano of his long deserved place as one of the top 5 tenors of the century.

A priceless musical document.......1999-01-14

This is not simply a collector's item. These imperfect recordings, made by an unknown POW in a war camp, reveal di Stefano's stunning natural talent perhaps even more completely than his more polished later singing. His boyish voice here is glowing, his interpretations fresh and fearless. You simply have to hear his "Mi par d'udir ancora" (better known as "Je crois entendre encore") on this recording, the most compelling account of this aria I've ever heard. He sings it in a full voice, with measured sprinklings of mezza voce, while most tenors just croon this aria in a pitiful falsetto. For me di Stefano, even at his most inexperienced, is the ultimate tenor benchmark.

The greatest lyric tenor ever, at the start of his career........1998-12-27

This is what the tenor voice is all about, there has never been a voice like this. Hear this great tenor at his the very beginning of his career. Listen to the beauty that the human voice can produce. Di Stefano puts everthing into every song/aria on this recording. The quality of sound on this disc may not be great( 2 Stars), but the performance is outstanding. If you are an opera fan, and particularly fond of tenors, this recording is a must.

Average customer rating:

Puccini: Il Trittico Manufacturer: Bella Voce Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Puccini - Il Trittico (Il Tabarro / Suor Angelica / Gianni Schicchi) / Gavazzeni, La Scala Eugene Onegin Puccini - Il Trittico / Alagna, Gheorghiu, Guelfi, Guleghina, Gallardo-Domás, Manca di Nissa, Palmer, Shicoff, van Dam, Pappano ASIN: B00003A9QR Release Date: 1999-12-01

Average customer rating:

Puccini: Il Tabarro Manufacturer: Great Opera Perform. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Bastianini, Ettore | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music ASIN: B000C6NO3W Release Date: 2005-12-27

Average customer rating: Beware The Thrilling Young Björling in his First Non-Swedish Arias

Jussi Björling Collection: Opera Arias & Duets, 1936-1944, Vol. 3 Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Flotow | Flotow, Friedrich von | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Ponchielli | Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Opera & Vocal | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Jussi Björling Collection, Vol. 2: Songs in Swedish, 1929-1937 Jussi Björling Collection, Vol. 1 Jussi Björling: Opera Arias ASIN: B0000W3XMA Release Date: 2004-02-17

Tracks:

1. Che Gelida Manina
2. Se Quel Guerrier... Celeste Aida
3. La Donna E Mobile
4. Recondita Armonia
5. Cielo E Mar
6. Ch'ella Mi Creda Libero
7. Mi batte Il Cor...O Paradiso
8. E Lucevan Le Stelle
9. Instant Charmant...En Fermant Les Yeux
10. La Fleur Que Tu M'avais Jetee
11. M'appari Tutt'amor
12. Salut! Demeure Chaste Et Pure
13. Ah Si, Ben Mio
14. Di Quella Pira
15. O Soave Fanciulla
16. E Il Sol Dell'anima
17. Come Un Bel Di Di Maggio
18. Amor Ti Vieta
19. Nessun Dorma
20. Recitar!... Vesti La Giubba
21. Questa O Quella
22. Mamma, Quel Vino
23. Di' Tu Se Fedele

Customer Reviews:

Beware.......2004-10-18

I'd give most any Bjorling recording 5 stars, and I do here for the singing. But a big question arises: are these the exact same performances released by EMI on their Bjorling series? I haven't checked every listing, but they sure sound the same.

The Thrilling Young Björling in his First Non-Swedish Arias.......2004-02-25

This disc contains the first arias and duets Jussi Björling recorded in any language other than Swedish. Recorded in Stockholm between 1936 and 1944 (and with a three year gap during the War), the first of them were made when he was only 25. He had already become an international star by that time, having made his official major opera début at the Royal Opera in Stockholm at 19. Of course he had been singing all of his life, having even toured the US with his father and two singing brothers as the Björling Quartet when he was only eight. He had recorded some of these arias in Swedish before, but in addition to singing in the original languages here, the improvement in his technique is notable. For instance, his early Swedish recording of 'Di quella pira' (Il Trovatore) was sung down a whole tone from the original, but in the current version he sings it in the original key and the climactic high C's ring out thrillingly.

I'm writing this review before Amazon has listed the precise contents of the disc. I won't take the space to list them, but will try to mention a number of what I think are the highlights. The arias (and two duets) are either in Italian or French; the only German aria here is 'Ach, so fromm' (Martha) but it is sung in Italian as 'M'appari.' There are a few moments where his diction is a bit faulty, especially in the French arias, but this is never a distraction. More important, he seems to know exactly what emotional moment is being expressed and conveys this with his tone color and phrasing. For instance, in the very first selection, 'Che gelida manina' (La Bohème) he captures the doubts and raptures of young love tenderly and ardently.

He manages the penultimate rising phrase at 'Et j'étais une chose à toi!,' from 'The Flower Song' (Carmen) with an exquisite soft tone (the score is marked pp) that is nonetheless passionate. 'En fermant les yeux' (Manon) is shiveringly beautiful, if marred slightly by some decidedly non-French vowel sounds; it also seems to have been recorded almost a half-tone sharp making his high C almost a C sharp! This is the young Björling making some of the most beautiful tenor sounds ever recorded.

'E lucevan le stelle' (Tosca) expresses the utter sadness of Cavaradossi's coming death without the sobbing and gulping so typical of many Italians tenors of the time. And it is ultimately the more effective for that. The purity and elegance of his singing here is of a standard that has rarely been matched.

There are two duets here, both with Swedish soprano Hjördis Schymberg: 'O soave fanciulla' (La Bohème) and 'E il sol dell'anima' (Rigoletto). In the former one hears an even fresher version of the duet he later sang with Victoria de los Angeles in one of the great complete opera recordings of all time, the 1956 'Bohème' conducted by Beecham. The pair's rapturous harmony at their exit will put a lump in your throat. The elegance of the Rigoletto duet is wonderful, and is helped by the nuanced orchestral accompaniment led by the conductor on all these selections, Nils Grevillius.

There are a number of arias here that Björling never sang on stage: the Carmen 'Flower Song' and the Manon aria. He also never sang the two Giordano rôles from 'Andrea Chenier' and 'Fedora'; their two arias ('Come un bel dì di maggio' and 'Amor ti vieta') were recorded in 1944 after his three-year hiatus, and are notable for their fervor and clean line. Radamès was a rôle he sang only very few times. Yet his 'Celeste Aida'is beautifully sung with dramatic heft.

His performance of 'Nessun dorma' (Turandot) is marked by his refusal to croon it as some tenors do. It is a stentorian rebuttal of the cruel queen's order that no one sleep. Finally, two arias by Verdi must be lauded: 'Questa, o quella' (Rigoletto) and 'Di' tu se fedele' (Ballo in maschera). They are virile, cleanly sung, expressive without being histrionic. The same is true of that most maudlin of all Italian arias, 'Vesti la giubba' (Pagliacci); there is no hysterical sobbing or laughing and yet one feels Canio's heart breaking.

This is the young Björling at the beginning of his career. The voice is fresh, thrilling, flexible, utterly solid from top to bottom, and it is operated by a keen intelligence.

This release is not to be missed by those who do not already own a previous incarnation of these performances. It must be said that the transfer from 78s done by Swedish transfer engineer, Stefan Lindström, is expemplary. Thank you, Naxos, for bringing us this wonderful series.

TT=65:34

Scott Morrison

Average customer rating: Ravishing Artists, Glorious Music--Dragging Tempo

The Puccini Experience ~ Gheorghiu, Rautino, Botha, Michaels-Moore, ROH Covent Garden, Downes Giacomo Puccini , Sir Edward Downes , Angela Gheorghiu , Johan Botha , Nina Rautino , Francis Egerton , Anthony Michaels-Moore , and Michael Druiett Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Gheorghiu, Angela | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music ASIN: B0000024FD Release Date: 1995-11-07

Tracks:

1. Le Ville, Act I: Se come voi piccina io fossi
2. Edgar, Act III: Addio mio dolce amor
3. Manon Lescaut, Act I: Donna non vidi mai
4. Manon Lescaut, Act IV: Sola, perduta, abbandonata
5. La Boheme, Act III: Donde lieta usci
6. Tosca: Act I Finale: Un tal baccano in chiesa
7. Tosca: Act I Finale: Or tutto e chiaro
8. Tosca: Act I Finale: Tre sbirri, una carrozza
9. Tosca, Act III: E lucevan le stelle
10. Madama Butterfly, Act II: Un bel di verdremo
11. La Fanciulla del West, Act III: Ch'ella mi creda
12. La Rondine, Act I: Chi il bel sogno di Doretta
13. Il Tabarro: Nulla, silenzio
14. Sour Angelica: Senza mamma
15. Gianni Schicchi: O mio babbino caro
16. Turandot: Act I Finale: Signore, ascolta
17. Turandot: Act I Finale: Non piangere, Liu
18. Turandot, Act III: Nessun dorma

Customer Reviews:

Ravishing Artists, Glorious Music--Dragging Tempo.......2000-03-15

This album from the Royal Opera House features top-knotch performers performing popular as well as rarely performed Puccini masterpieces. The contrast of the singers' voices is indeed interesting. From the first class lyric soprano of Angela Gheorghiu, to the full dramatic soprano,Nina Rautio. The male artists tenor, Johan Botha and baritone Anthony Michaels Moore also rise to occasion in this unique recital. The one fault with this recording,(O mio babbino caro being the most odvious example)is the overall tempo of the pieces. They are much too slow! At times the passion of Puccini is lost and the arias drag. This is a good CD to own for advid Puccini lovers who already own an array of recordings by this prolific composer and would like to experience new interpretations. However, it is not recommended for newcomers for whom it is crucial to hear this brilliant opera giant at his most dramatic.

Meditation Music:

1. Puccini:Madama Butterfly
2. Ravel: L'Enfant Et Les Sortileges
3. Recital
4. Richard Strauss Der Rosenkavalier
5. Richard Strauss: Salomé
6. Richard Wagner: Der Fliegende Holländer
7. Richard Wagner: Lohengrin
8. Rossini Arias
9. Rossini: La Cenerentola
10. Schubert Lieder

Meditation Music

meditation music

Meditation Music

Planet of the Stereos [Enhanced] [Explicit Lyrics]

Read: Toccata Giocosa/Night Flight/Symphony No.4/Los Dioses Aztecas

Rubinstein, Tcherepnin, Ippolitov-Ivanov: Quintets

Music: Groovejet [CD-single] [Import]

Rupaul's Go-Go Box Classics

Salsoul 30th [Import]

Ra Da Bang: Carnival of Rhythm

Songs You Know by Heart

Rocks in Head [Original recording remastered] [Import]

Rising

Slide [CD-single]

Night in Paris [Import]

She's Dangerous [Explicit Lyrics]

Satisfying Blues

Uptown