I confess I only knew this opera by the Cherry Duet in the second act and Suzel's "Son pocchi fiori". What a charming, lovely opera it is! Though written by Mascagni, a composer some consider to be a leading composer of the verismo school, this opera is anything but. Nobody dies, nor are there any revenge plots or carnage.Bonisolli is at his best here. The voice is supple and attractive and is used with imagination and finesse. It's not surprising that he soon became well-known, if not quite a star in the Pavarotti/Domingo sense. Gianna Galli sings with a distinctive, beautiful soprano. She is effortlessly charming as Suzel. She was also in the Guinness Book of World Records as the youngest soprano to make her professional debut in opera (she was only 17). Antonio Boyer has one of those purring, Italian baritones that used to be so plentiful. He sings with strength as Rabbi David (he sounds rather like Mario Sereni). The other singers are all more than competent. The sound is pitched correctly, but is, as Andy mentions above, a little muffled. It's certainly listenable though. Anyone who loves this opera or these singers will enjoy this performance tremendously.

Was really surprised by Bonisolli's restraint. Really good performance.

Very, very dull sound…