Puccini: Tosca (In English) - Barstow, Collins, Chard, Tomlinson; Elder. London, 1976
$8.95
Description:
Despite her distinctly "unitaliante" tone, Josephine Barstow excelled in the great Italian "diva" roles. (Even Herbert von Karajan recognized her talent, casting her as Amelia in Un Ballo in Maschera.) She overcame the non-Italianate quality of her voice with impeccable technique, remarkable acting ability, and the spinto power she could summon when required. All these strengths are on full display in this performance of Tosca.
Kenneth Collins delivers a commanding and robust Cavaradossi, while Geoffrey Chard provides a strong and menacing Scarpia. A young John Tomlinson makes an early impression as Angelotti, showcasing the potential that would later define his career.
The sound quality is fair, with the English libretto coming through clearly, thanks in part to the singers’ exceptional diction and the immediacy of their performances.
OD 10640-2
