Listening to this recording, I was surprised by how natural Fidelio sounds in Italian. That’s not to say there’s anything distinctly Italian about the interpretation—on the contrary, the performers succeed in delivering a stylized reading that remains true to the opera. Still, there are moments that might inspire a knowing grin. For instance, "Abscheulicher!" is translated as "Ah, Perfido!"—one wonders if the translator had Beethoven’s concert aria in mind.

Dorothy Dow sings beautifully and proves well suited to an Italian-language Leonora. Her voice possesses the purity and control that Beethoven demands while also carrying a lush quality that suits the language. Amedeo Berdini adds an appealing Italianate flair to Florestan, while Giuseppe Taddei delivers a chillingly effective Pizarro. Boris Christoff, best known for his commanding portrayals of kings and czars, surprises with a notably human Rocco. Vittorio Gui also deserves recognition, particularly for his masterfully shaped prelude to Act II.