Verdi: I Vespri Siciliani (complete opera remastered recorded live 1953)
$30.00
Special Order3 - 6 weeks add to cart
GIUSEPPE VERDI
Verdi: I Vespri Siciliani (complete opera remastered recorded live 1953)
Maria Callas, Boris Christoff, Enzo Mascherini, Giorgio Kokolios-Bardi / Chorus and Orchestra of the Teatro Comunale di Firenze, Erich Kleiber
[ Warner Classics Maria Callas Live Remastered / 3 CD ]
Release Date: Friday 1 February 2019
This item is only available to us via Special Order. We should be able to get it to you in 3 - 6 weeks from when you order it.
I vespri siciliani, originally conceived as a grand opéra for Paris, is one of Verdi's most ambitious works, and the multi-faceted central role of Elena is one his most demanding: Callas is one of the few sopranos who have encompassed its vocal and dramatic diversity. This performance - conducted by Erich Kleiber and with Boris Christoff as the Sicilian activist Procida - took place in Florence in Spring 1951. Just over six months later, Callas opened the season at La Scala in the same opera. I vespri siciliani also served for her sole foray into directing opera, for the opening of the new Teatro Regio in Turin in 1973.
"Callas is terrific in the Act 1 aria and cabaletta, as well as in the long duet with Arrigo in Act 4… Boris Christoff is magnificent as the gloomy, unforgiving Procida… Erich Kleiber… leads a vigorous performance…"
(Gramophone)
