Listen to a Sample:
If you love Pearl Fishers, or even if you are curious about this opera, I highly recommend this recording. The cast is superb. Nicolai Gedda's legendary vocal control and style make him the perfect Nadir. His use of voix-mixe during his aria is astonishing, creating the perfect atmosphere without sounding feminine or overly concerned by the insane tessitura. Christianne Eda-Pierre is sublime as Leïla. Despite some interesting French pronunciation, Renato Bruson uses his virile baritone with elegance. Those who have seen Eve Queler conduct have often called her technique into question, but hearing this recording there can be no question that her sensibility for opera is just about unparalleled. She manages the very fine balance between the ethereal and the savage sides of Bizet's score with an understanding that can only be innate. It is also worth noting that there are no cuts in this performance, so even if you think you know this opera well by now, you may be treated to some new music. The sound is good.
OD 10842-2