Puccini: Turandot (Complete opera recorded in 1957)

Puccini's Turandot , first performed in 1926, was the only work in which Callas sang that was younger than herself and is a perfect vehicle for a dramatic soprano with a steady, steely and brilliant voice capable of rising to top C.Although she had last sung the strenuously demanding title rôle on stage in 1949, her subtlety is apparent in this dramatically and musically effective 1957 recording. Schwarzkopf (Liù) and Fernandi (Calaf) perfectly complement Callas as the legendary Chinese princess whose icy heart is melted by the power of love.