Magda Olivero is in her element here, giving us a searing portrayal of a bitter, wounded, desperate woman who only wants to escape her dreary life. She gives memorable, individual readings of many lines that other Giorgettas tend to throw away, one of which is her almost toneless utterance of the "Quanto difficile esser felice!"Bottion is a strong Luigi, if a little anonymous. Fioravanti demonstrates again why he was held in such high regard by opera lovers. Though he never lacked for work and did get to make several important studio recordings (Manon Lescaut with Callas and Adriana Lecouvreur with Tebaldi among others), he was never considered a star of the first rank, probably because there were so many good Italian baritone during his time. Nevertheless his portrayal of Michele is as detailed as Olivero's Giorgetta. The supporting cast is excellent as is the conducting.The voices are heard pretty well over the orchestra though they are occasionally covered. The Puccini filler with Olivero is very enjoyable and enlightening.

I enjoyed listening to this good performance. Sound is acceptable, although the orchestra is too prominent and sometimes swamps the stage. Giorgetta lies a little low for Olivero and emphasizes her middle register, which is throaty and doesn't project too well. She still makes a fine characterization with many sensitive touches. Bottion is serviceable. For me the star was the baritone Fioravanti who has a beautiful, full baritone voice and doesn't shout or growl. His scene with Olivero is the highlight of the performance. Delogu is square and unimaginative, but competent.

a marvelous recording