Leoncavallo: I Pagliacci (In German) Hopf, Muszely, Prey, Cordes, Dickie; Santi. Germany, 1954

$2.97

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Although this may not be the most Italianate performance, it possesses a very able cast of German singers. In the title role, Hans Hopf conveys the anguish and despair of Canio with the same intensity that he brought to Tristan. Melitta Muszely is a name that has not endured throughout the years, which is a shame, as she possesses a winsome voice that was capable of a great diversity of roles, including Nedda, a role that is always difficult to cast. A young Hermann Prey sings Silvio with elegance and style. His voice was never that Italianate but was always attractive, and it makes a very convincing argument during his monologue as to why Nedda would ultimately have a much better time with him. Nello Santi leads the cast injecting a much needed dose of Italian sensibility into this compelling performance. The sound is very good.

OD 10441-1