An exceptional example of perfect coordination between these wonderful singers, chorus and the marvelous baguette of Bartoletti. Unexpectably good sound!!! Congratulations Opera depot!!!!!!

The cast is sensational, all in their prime in 1968, especially Bergonzi and Arroyo. Unusually good sonics for a lifve recording. Bertoletti a fine conductor. This competitive with more highly marketed commercial recordings.

This performance of Aida from Buenos Aires is excellent. However..... it was to be expected with this cast.

This was a fine recording of Aida. The cast was excellent. Arroyo was sublime. Bergonzi's Radames was spot on. The final duet was ravishing. MacNeil is one of my favorite baritones and he acquitted himself in the relatively short role of Amonosro.

GREAT !!! Like ever Arroyo is Aida !!!

This cast was probably taken for granted in 1968. I've said it here before, but no one sings this opera today like these singers do. Arroyo sounds like a Verdian goddess, the middle of the voice beautifully steady, the top gleaming, and she is involved from start to finish. Bergonzi was in great shape in a role that was probably a little heavy for him, yet he makes it work without forcing his voice. His "Celeste Aida" is thrilling and poetic; he joins Arroyo on the top C in the Act Two ensemble. Cvejic was an excellent mezzo, considered a second cast singer at most houses back then, but she'd be a superstar today. She knows what Amneris is all about and gives a riveting performance. MacNeil roars his way through Amonasro most effectively. Rossi-Lemeni is a suitably implacable Ramfis and Algorta a majestic King. Bartoletti sometimes rushes the singers, especially in the final scene causing some misalignment between the singers and orchestra, but conducts with spirit. His forces do him and Verdi proud.The sound is excellent broadcast mono with some tape hiss, but it's not really a problem. This performance is what Aida used to be and (most of the time) is no longer. Listen and fall in love with this glorious opera all over again!

Arroyo should have had a commercial recording of Aida. She did not so I am grateful for any recording of her in this part. In 1968 she was in magnificent voice and her portrayal is warm and moving. Bergonzi is a prince among tenors and he emphasizes the lyric beauty of the role without sacrificing the heroes aspect. He never forces and is always stylish. MacNeil is a powerhouse Amonasro and Cvejic, probably not my first choice for Amneris, sings it very well and gives a good account of the role. Bartoletti is always a good Verdi conductor.

Spectacular cast