Verdi: Macbeth - Chapman, Rysanek, McCollum, Gramm; Scherman. Little Opera Society, 1958
$5.37
Listen to a Sample:
Much was made of Leonie Rysanek's very auspicious Metropolitan Opera debut replacing Maria Callas in the role of Lady Macbeth in 1959. That debut helped propel her to the heights of international stardom. What many people don't know is that she had already sung the role in New York the previous year with Thomas Scherman's company "Little Orchestra Society." This recording captures that performance. Rysanek fans will love it. Still in her early thirties, she brings all the commitment and excitement that would distinguish her performances from her colleagues' but with a voice that is still remarkably fresh. The rest of the cast is good but this was her night. The sound is very good although there are few rough patches. Fortunately they do not come during any of the key scenes.
OD 10351-2
