It was the original conductor Vittorio Gui, not Votto, who wanted to cut the final cabaletta. When Bonynge objected, Gui withdrew and Votto took his place.My apologies to all involved.

Beatrice di Tenda had not been performed at La Scala for decades when this performance took place. Sutherland was just beginning her glorious career when Bonynge requested the theater revive the work for her; the management was wise to do so. Dame Joan is spectacular. The coloratura (there's not that much) is tossed off effortlessly and her trill gives goosebumps with its perfection. Her high notes here are all on the mark. Her intonation isn't always as spot-on as one would like and her habit of sliding into notes is evident, but overall La Stupenda lives up to her billing. No wonder the audience goes nuts!Kabaivanska is good as Agnese though it's not really her role. Campora sings plangently in an ungrateful role. Dondi is excellent as the vindictive husband Filippo. The chorus and orchestra are both terrific under Votto's keen direction. Sutherland and Bonynge had to fight to include the final heartbreaking cabaletta (Votto wanted to cut it and use another ending); fortunately, they won that battle. The sound is excellent, the Pirate Gods smiling happily on this endeavor. The filler (two excerpts from I Puritani at Glyndebourne) are equally thrilling, but Andy should be ashamed for not including the concluding "Vien, diletto"! On the other hand, he just made me want get the Puritani, also for sale by Opera Depot - very clever, Andy...