Don Giovanni

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791)

DESCRIPTION

Gérard Souzay, primarily known for his interpretations of French art song, makes a striking turn as Don Giovanni. While his sweet baritone may lack some of the swagger typically associated with other renowned interpreters of the role, this restraint adds a layer of charm and nuance, accentuating the moral ambiguity that Mozart and Da Ponte so skillfully weave into their masterpiece. In contrast, Beverly Sills brings her signature dramatic depth to the role of Donna Anna, though her voice, while radiant, does not carry the dramatic force expected of the part. Instead, she compensates brilliantly by leaning into her precision with laser-accurate coloratura, making the role uniquely her own. Arlene Saunders, however, offers a voice of true dramatic distinction, bringing an almost monumental quality to Elvira's suffering. As Don Ottavio, Michel Sénéchal proves his remarkable technical prowess, though the role may leave the listener yearning for more vocal beauty.

CAST

Don Giovanni – GÉRARD SOUZAY
Il Commendatore – ANTON DIAKOV
Donna Anna – BEVERLY SILLS
Donna Elvira – ARLENE SAUNDERS
Don Ottavio – MICHEL SÉNÉCHAL
Leporello – HEINZ BLANKENBURG
Masetto – CLAUDE CORBEIL
Zerlina – ISABEL GARCISANZ

DETAILS

Location: Lausanne
Date: May 19, 1967
Conductor: Reinhard Peters
Catalogue Number: OD 12212-3
Label: Opera Depot
Number of Discs: 3
In Mono

NOTE

There is intermittent static throughout the performance and the last 4 minutes of the Act I finale are missing.