At just 25 years old, James Levine demonstrates remarkable skill both with the orchestra and in his dramatic approach to phrasing and articulation. This performance embraces an unabashedly old-school approach, making a compelling case for the grandeur and proto-romantic qualities of Don Giovanni.

Ezio Flagello delivers a standout Leporello, blending stunning vocalism with impeccable comedic timing. Lorna Haywood, in her role debut as Donna Anna, impresses despite having only a week's notice. Jan Peerce, already in his mid-60s, shows that he still possesses the vocal power and technique needed to navigate two of Mozart's most challenging tenor arias.

Italo Tajo brings charm and humor to Masetto, and Ramón Vinay, as the Commendatore, commands the role with such authority that you would think he had been singing bass roles his entire career.

I don't often single out the basso continuo, but the exquisite playing by Lynn Harrell (also 25 at the time) deserves mention. Clearly, he learned a thing or two about following a singer from his father, Mack Harrell, one of the greatest Lieder singers of his generation.