This is a classic performance in very good sound. Don't miss this.

I first heard this performance of La Boheme decades ago when CDs were quickly becoming the new music medium. It was on the Hunt label and was in terrific sound. Just a quick glance at the cast list excites ones expectations and this is one case where those expectations are met and then some. Except for Ghiuselev the entire cast is Italian and the Bulgarian bass had been living and performing in Italy already for a number of years. Freni and Pavarotti are simply wonderful. I have no criticism of either of them. Bruscantini makes as much as any singer can of Marcello and the little known Rita Talarico is a lovely Musetta, her soprano darker and more colorful than one normally hears in the role (she died young at age 53.) Maffeo and Ghiuselev provide fine singing and memorable characterizations. The supporting cast is equally strong with an unusually assertive Parpignol. Schippers leads like a master. The sound is not only excellent stereo, but someone at RAI decided to provide some sound effects. We hear Musetta toss the crockery to the ground in Act Two and enthusiastic crowd noises help create the impression that we're in the opera house, rather than a radio studio.Highly recommended to all opera lovers!

Mixing legends together (Freni's Mimi, young Pavarotti, Bruscantini, Schippers...) can make flops or miracles. Here, we have really a great performance of La Bohème. For me it's the best one. Thanks God, the sound is really good.

A great bargain!