Bellini: I Puritani - Freni, Saldari, Ventriglia; Staern. Wexford, 1962
$8.95
Description:
Mirella Freni effortlessly dominates this 1962 performance of I Puritani, delivering an Elvira so exquisite that the rest of the cast, regardless of their merits, fades by comparison. Her singing is impeccably smooth, technically flawless, and emotionally resonant—every entrance a masterclass in bel canto expression. Captured in generally clear, though occasionally fuzzy sound, her performance alone makes this recording essential listening.
The supporting cast is a mixed bag. Franco Ventriglia (Giorgio) and Lino Puglisi (Riccardo) offer solid, commendable work, while Luciano Saldari as Arturo leaves little impression. The chorus is similarly uneven, but in the end, it hardly matters. Every moment is simply an interlude between Freni’s sublime appearances.
In Mono
OD 11325-2
