The cast in this performance of Aida is the very definition of legendary, made all the more exciting by the fact that it captures these artists at the outset of their careers and in pristine voice. Just two months after this performance, Leontyne Price would make her historic Metropolitan Opera debut in Il trovatore. In Philadelphia, however, she was already no newcomer, and the audience greets her entrance with an effusive ovation. She more than fulfills that anticipation, delivering an Aida of remarkable poise, radiance, and authority.

Carlo Bergonzi, as Radamès, displays a voice both powerful and supple, capable of ringing dramatic exclamation as well as a nuanced command of Italian style. Irene Dalis is a formidable Amneris, singing with fearless abandon without ever sacrificing beauty of tone. Anselmo Colzani and Norman Treigle rise fully to the level of their colleagues in the smaller roles of Amonasro and Ramfis. Praise is also due to Julius Rudel, who leads a taut and disciplined performance.