Mozart

Le Nozze di Figaro

Taddei, Schwarzkopf, Prey, Sciutti, Malagù, Rouleau; Giulini
Holland, 1961

Regular price $26.95
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Le Nozze di Figaro

As Figaro, Giuseppe Taddei is instantly likable, bringing his signature charm and vocal warmth. He is joined by the winsome Graziella Sciutti as Susanna, whose sparkling presence adds to the recording’s appeal.

At first, hearing Hermann Prey as the Count feels slightly unexpected, given his long association with Figaro. However, the good news is that the Count’s tessitura sits more naturally in his voice than the bass-baritone demands of Figaro. He brings a refined elegance to the role, avoiding the barking approach some baritones adopt, reminding us that this is the same man who once charmed Rosina in Il barbiere di Siviglia.

Elisabeth Schwarzkopf may have been slightly past her prime here, but she remains an effective and expressive Countess. Prior to this recording, I had only known Stefania Malagù in character roles, and I must admit she is a bit underwhelming as Cherubino.

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Horia G.✓ Top Reviewer

Romania

Overall rating

WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART'S LE NOZZE DI FIGARO

THIS IS REALLY A GREAT RECORDING. IT FEATURES SOME OF THE BEST SINGERS AND MOZART SINGERS EVER. A CAST OF STARS (INCLUDING THE CONDUCTOR). HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! A MUST HAVE...
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David R.✓ Top Reviewer

United States

Overall rating

Great Performance, Excellent Sound!

This cast shines under Giulini's effervescent direction. Sciutti and Taddei were, of course, native Italian speakers and that contributes immensely to their characterizations. Sciutti's voice per se is attractive, if not very substantial. She has a habit of pecking at the music, yet she contributes a lovely "Deh, vieni non tardar" in the last act. Taddei is genuinely funny as Figaro and convinces as a rebel as well. Schwarzkopf makes a wonderfully patrician Countess, earning an ovation after her "Dove sono". Prey is better known for his Figaro, probably because of his participation in Bohm's famous DG studio recording and Ponnelle's film, but frankly sounds better suited to the Count. His triplets at the end of his aria are messy, but that is my only criticism of him. Malagu had a fine voice and is best known for playing comprimaria parts. I liked her Cherubino more than Andy did. She doesn't exaggerate and fits into the ensemble splendidly.The supporting cast is made up wonderful Dutch singers (Aarden, Vroons, Driessen) and one Canadian (Rouleau); they all make terrific contributions. The sound is excellent broadcast mono. There is a poorly chosen disc break between disc one and two, but I'm done complaining. This is a great, life-affirming performance and all opera lovers should hear it!
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