Listen to a Sample:
Pros:
- Astrid Varnay is sublime in the title role, melding Wagnerian heft with Italianate delicacy.
- Kurt Baum never managed to break through "second cast" status during his career, which is a shame because he consistantly sang with remarkable vocal control and superb phrasing.
Cons:
- This recording is missing the opening of Act III and the entire Act IV Judgement Scene.
BONUS:
Astrid Varnay sings "Ritorna vincitor" from Aida
Wien, 1951
In Mono
OD 12120-2