Verdi: Il Trovatore

This recording, which has been a best-seller in the standard Opera d’Oro budget catalogue, represents a live performance by the world-famous La Scala opera company of Milan when they were on tour in the Soviet Union in 1964, and determined to prove their mettle to the exacting Russian audience. Soprano Gabriella Tucci was an outstanding Verdi soprano of her day, singing with purity of line, intelligence, and involvement. Tenor Carlo Bergonzi, famous for his exquisite sense of Italian style, was at his youthful peak when this recording was made.

Giulietta Simionato was another long-lived singer, here at the end of her public career, after being widely acknowledged as the world’s greatest operatic mezzo. Pierro Cappucilli, who would later become one of the most valued Italian baritones, is heard here at the very beginning of his illustrious career. Conductor Gianandrea Gavazzeni was one of the most reliable Italian operatic conductors for many years, and here gives one of his most exciting readings, inspired by the enthusiasm of his Slavic audience.