Donizetti: Anna Bolena - Gencer, Simionato, Bertocci, Clabassi; Gavazzeni. Milano, 1958

$4.48

Listen to a Sample:

Leyla Gencer was just as much on the forefront of the bel canto revival as Maria Callas and Joan Sutherland but does not necessarily get the same kind of credit. She deserves it and this performance bares that out. Her ability to alternate seamlessly from guttural chest tones to the most delicate of fioratura is almost super human and helps show how Donizetti led to Giuseppe Verdi. She is joined by Giulietta Simionato as Giovanna. It is worth pointing out that both singers manage great high Cs during their duet "Va, infelice." The sound is excellent.

OD 10537-2