Puccini

Tosca

Nilsson, Tagliavini, Vinay; Moresco
1963

Regular price $17.95
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Tosca

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.

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Leon✓ Verified Buyer
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Does this CD includes Bonus La Traviata?? Thank you!
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David R.✓ Top Reviewer

United States

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Nilsson and Company Deliver in a Sometimes Sloppy Performance!

From the names of the supporting singers I would guess this originates either from Philadelphia or New Orleans. At any rate this was obviously a one-off performance with little if any rehearsal time. There are sloppy or late entrances, fudged words all over the place, and generally a sense that the show might derail into chaos at any moment. On the other hand, that bring a sense of excitement to the occasion that better rehearsed accounts sometimes lack. Nilsson is always worth hearing as Tosca. Her high notes are thrilling as usual, but more importantly she sounds like she's completely enjoying herself. Her scream at the discovery of Cavaradossi's death rivals one of Fay Wray's screams in King Kong - and then she treats us to another one as she jumps! Vinay is a good Scarpia though his grasp of the part is musically a little shaky. Tagliavini was somewhat past his vocal prime here, but he gives the audience its money's worth. The audience acts like a fourth character, applauding the singers' entrances, arias, and high notes with flair and enthusiasm. The sound is mediocre, but mostly listenable. There are some unfortunate moments later in the second act where the original tape got stretched or slowed down. It doesn't prevent enjoyment, but it is annoying.Tosca and Nilsson lovers should get this. All others use caution!
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