Any Tosca featuring Birgit Nilsson in the title role is a treasure, and this performance is no exception. However, what nearly steals the spotlight is Ramón Vinay’s riveting portrayal of Scarpia. Like Plácido Domingo, Vinay transitioned from a career as a heldentenor to baritone roles, and it proved to be a wise move. He sounds every bit the genuine baritone here, rather than a tenor avoiding his upper range, delivering a performance full of power and menace.

Nilsson, at the peak of her abilities, gives an electrifying interpretation of Tosca, showcasing her unparalleled vocal brilliance and dramatic intensity., but it does little to diminish the impact of these remarkable performances.