Verdi

Don Carlo

Sarroca, Parutto, Cecchele, Paskalis, Siepi, Talvela; Giulini
Roma, 1965

Regular price $26.95
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Don Carlo

Although none of the cast members—aside from Cesare Siepi—could be considered major stars, this performance of Don Carlo proves that great opera is often the result of ensemble cohesion rather than marquee names. Each soloist contributes thoughtful phrasing and admirable vocal discipline, and under the expert direction of Carlo Maria Giulini, the whole production comes together with remarkable clarity. Presented in the five-act version (though the Fontainebleau scene is heavily cut), the performance hits its dramatic peak in the chilling confrontation between Siepi and Martti Talvela during the Grand Inquisitor scene.

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David R.✓ Top Reviewer

United States

Overall rating

Excellent Performance in Very Good Sound!

Many opera lovers lament that the five act version of Verdi's Don Carlo is not played often enough. Here we have the great maestrao Carlo Maria Giulini giving us a compromise of sorts. A condensed first act is played followed by the traditional four acts with a few cuts. Eboli gets her entire Veil Song, but Rodrigo and Elisabetta get only one verse of their arias. The next cut doesn't come until the end of Act 4, scene 2 where everything after Rodrigo's death is cut. Act 5 is complete.None of this would matter if the performance wasn't such a good one. Cecchele is a strong Carlo, Paskalis a terrific Rodrigo (his last scene is heartbreaking). Siepi is, as always, a great Filippo, who earns a well-deserved ovation after his "Ella giammai m'amo". I wish he wouldn't hang on to his top F# on "Mio padre!" at the end as it clashes with Elisabetta's high B. Sarroca is better known for her French roles, but in the event she is a lovely Elisabetta; her last act aria is definitely worth the wait. Parutto sings Eboli with strength and personality. Her "O don fatale!" is a highlight of the performance. Talvela is a frightening Inquisitor with a solid low E. Giulini conducts an exciting, well-paced performance. The sound is very good, the pitch of the tape correct.One of Opera Depot's Sleepers; if you love Don Carlo, you'll enjoy this performance.
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