Mozart: Le Nozze di Figaro - Taddei, Schwarzkopf, Prey, Sciutti, Malagù, Rouleau; Guilini. Holland, 1961
$14.95
Description:
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.
OD 10527-3
