I’d never heard Lotte Rysenek before, and now I’m a huge fan. Hesitated buying, because no opening? No Dovunqe al mondo? Eh, I lived. Voices are verrrrry recessed, but sound is pretty clear.

What a pity this entire performance wasn't recorded. Rysanek is a marvelous Butterfly. She soars to the heavens when Puccini asks her to, but can also interpret the more intimate moments with specificity and lovely tone. No wonder she was so well known for this role.The supporting cast is also excellent. Zampieri sings the love duet with charm and strength, joining his leading lady on an exciting top C at the end of Act One. Jahn and Mastromei are first-rate in their roles as is Horst Nitsche as Goro (he gives a great scream when attacked by Suzuki in Act Two). For those who are curious, Anny Felbermeyer (known for her participation in studio recordings of Hänsel und Gretel and Arabella) is heard as Kate Pinkerton for a few lines near the end.The sound is mostly good, but some crinkled tape spoils the Bonze scene. The tapist fidgets a lot at the beginning of Act Two, making one want to shake him.Perhaps another more complete recording with Rysanek will appear; I'd love to hear it.

My first performance at the Vienna Staatsoper was April, l973, Madama Butterfly starring Lotte Rysanek, a soprano I knew from her many operetta recordings from the Volksoper. I was mightily impressed with Lotte. This l972 performance verifies my memories of that 1973performance. It is uncanny the resemblance to her sister Leonie's voice, a glorious and soaring top included. At times I would swear I was hearing Leonie singing Butterfly. Thrilling! Needless to say Leonie is one of my favorite sopranos and I did manage to hear Leonie at least half a dozen times before her retirement. Sound is quite satisfying.