Giuseppe Di Stefano [Box set]

On this CD:

1. La bohème, opera
Composed by Giacomo Puccini
Performed by La Scala Theater Orchestra with Licia Albanese, Aristide Baracchi, Beniamino Gigli, Nello Palai, Afro Poli, Carlo Scattola, Duilio Baronti, Tatiana Menotti
Conducted by Umberto Berrettoni

Giuseppe Di Stefano, Music, Giuseppe Di Stefano, Box Sets (Audio Only), Classical, Classical Music, Classical Vocals
Nessun Dorma ~ 20 Great Tenor Arias / Pavarotti, Carreras, Domingo, Bergonzi, Aragall, Björling, Di Stefano, Kollo, Corelli, Del Monaco...
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • The End of the Big Voice?
  • Fla Gator Lady
  • 20 Great Tenor Arias
  • Plesantly surprised...
  • Absolutely Agree About Corelli
 Nessun Dorma ~ 20 Great Tenor Arias / Pavarotti, Carreras, Domingo, Bergonzi, Aragall, Björling, Di Stefano, Kollo, Corelli, Del Monaco...

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000007OTX
Release Date: 1998-06-09

Tracks:

  1. La Boheme: Che gelida manina
  2. Manon Lescaut: Donna non vidi mai
  3. Carmen Bizet: La fleur que tu m'avais jetee (Flower Song)
  4. Luisa Miller: O! fede negar potessi .. Quando le sere al placido
  5. La Traviata: Lunge da lei ... De' miei bollenti spiriti
  6. Martha: M'appari
  7. Giordano: Amor ti vieta
  8. L'Africaine: Mi batte il cuor .. O paradiso
  9. La Favorita: Favorita del re . . . Spirto gentil
  10. Werther: 'Pourquoi me reveiller'
  11. Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: 'Morgenlich leuchtend in rosigem Schein'
  12. Les Contes d'Hoffmann: O Dieu! De quelle ivresse
  13. TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle
  14. Pagliacci: Recitar! ... Vesti la giubba
  15. Il Trovatore: Di quella pira
  16. Aida: Se quel guerrier .. Celeste Aida
  17. TOSCA: Recondita armonia
  18. L'Elisir d'Amore: Una furtiva lagrima
  19. La Gioconda: Cielo e mar!
  20. Turandot: Nessun dorma

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The End of the Big Voice?.......2007-04-16

This CD, which is truly fine overall, reminds me of Marilyn Horne's lament that we have probably seen the end of the big voice and it makes me sad. I agree with the reviewer who refers to "microphonies". And more justice could be done to Bjorling's voice with a better transfer. But at some point, music becomes a matter of taste and I prefers singers who have the instrument and the support and the training, whether formal or not, to just let fly and take a chance on making a mistake. Domingo can be wonderful and so can his musicianship but he tends to be so stiff. I have to wonder at the virulence and asperity with which some people go after Pavarotti. It's true that late in his career he made some questionable recordings but the answer to that is simple: don't buy them. At his best, he belongs for all time in the top echelon of tenors. I love this CD and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys great (big) voices.

5 out of 5 stars Fla Gator Lady.......2007-01-12

Highly recommend this CD with these beloved arias of the greatest tenors in opera. I have owned this CD for a couple of years and purchased another for a friend who always requests that I play it ... perfect for listening in the car, dinner, bridge games, relaxation ... just so perfect. You won't be disappointed in this one.

5 out of 5 stars 20 Great Tenor Arias.......2007-01-09

A great disc,combination of the greatest tenors of the 20th century and some of the most beautiful music ever written in any century,a must addition to any opera lovers collection.

5 out of 5 stars Plesantly surprised..........2006-01-14

I don't remember how I found this CD the other day surfing through the "Amazon" such as it is, but I did. I listened to a few clips provided & on the strength of that, I purchased this CD.

First it is a great buy. A booklet with pictures of each tenor, a small bio, the year recorded and TRANSLATIONS of each aria are provided. This is really nice. It seems more & more that translations are being left out. Being a former opera singer, I may know most of the words, but sometimes it's just nice to read along (sometimes it's just nice to listen too).

Being on the Decca label, there is admittedly quite a few Pavarotti selections. Out of 20 selections, he has 6 of them. But I love Pavarotti, so this is no problem for me. These are all early recordings & his voice is magnificent! Being a singer, I still marvel at his ability to sing "All'armi!" on a high D and still say the 2nd syllable "mi" on such a note! WOW. There is also of course his very sweet, impassioned and lyrical turn as Rodolfo in "La Boheme" as well as the lesser known (although I still have it on casette) "La Favorita" which has a particularly high tessitura.

Also featured are a young Plácido Domingo singing a VERY nice "Flower song/ La fleur que tu m'avais jetée" from Carmen. He usually sounds too pushed for me on the top notes (as one might expect from a Pavarotti fan, I like free top notes) but in this recording he is pretty darn fabulous. He also sings an aria from "Tales of Hoffman/Les Contes d'Hoffman" and I have always felt that he, like Neil Schicoff, were well suited to this role.

Lamentably there are only one selection each from Carreras, Correlli, Monaco, Aragall & Kollo. Especial kudos to the young recording they feature for Aragall. He had a very free and nice high tenor well suited to Verdi. Of course as his career went forward with the natural darkening of his voice and the "heavier" roles, he did start to develop a wobble. But this recording is before that. His top, his phrasing are all beautifully done in his featured aria from "La Traviata."
Mario del Monaco's "E lucevan le stelle" is hauntingly beautiful and has such a wonderful pianissimo in it that it makes you just want to gasp for beauty's sake. I now know every tenor I've heard sing this aria was trying to emulate what he did.

This is a great CD because it does bring together on one CD some of the greatest singers of the 20th/21st century. Bergonzi, di Stefano, Björling, in addition to the previously mentioned artists is quite an impressive collection. I'm sure there's only one of each for Carreras, Aragall (I believe they are formerly EMI/Angel artists) and perhaps some of the others because they are "imported" from another label. There's so much Pavarotti on this CD because he IS a Decca artist.

A highly recommended CD, affordable, not the usually obscure and unpolished artists that are sometimes found on compilations. Plus acutal linear notes and translations. Nicely done, Decca!!!

4 out of 5 stars Absolutely Agree About Corelli.......2005-05-27

Franco Corelli's "Nessun Dorma" is still the best of them all - clear, passionate, and exciting. (And those final two notes...! Gives me chills just to think of it.) I was fortunate enough to see him live in both "Turandot" and "Romeo and Juliet" a year before his retirement, and he was still a Calaf and a Romeo to die for... as, of course, Liu and Juliet did! As it is, I tend to buy compilations depending on how much Corelli they include - though Bjorling is a strong second, and I have happy memories of Domingo. Long live the Golden Age of Operatic Tenors!
Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Verdi: Opera LaTraviata
  • The Sound is very listenable
  • Come closer to Maria Callas
  • Best of La Traviata and Maria Callas
  • Simply the best...
 Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan
Giuseppe Verdi , Orchestra e coro del Teatro alla Scala , Carlo Maria Giulini , Maria Callas , Giuseppe di Stefano , Ettore Bastianini , Silvio Maionica , Luisa Mandelli , and Arturo La Porta
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Puccini: Tosca (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Victor de Sabata, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  2. Verdi: Rigoletto (Complete Opera); Maria Callas; Tito Gobbi; Giuseppe di Stefano
  3. Bizet: Carmen (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Nicolai Gedda, Georges Pretre, Paris Opera Orchestra
  4. Puccini: Madama Butterfly (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Lucia Danieli, Nicolai Gedda, Herbert von Karajan, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  5. Puccini: La Boheme (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Anna Moffo, Antonino Votto, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan

ASIN: B00000630Y
Release Date: 1998-03-17

Tracks:

  1. La Traviata: Preludio (Orchestra)
  2. La Traviata: Act One: Dell'invito trascorsa e gia l'lora
  3. La Traviata: Act One: Libiamo, ne' lieti calici
  4. La Traviata: Act One: Che e cio (coro/Violetta/Flora/Marchese/Barone/Dottore/Gaston/Alfredo)
  5. La Traviata: Act One: Un di felice, eterea (Alfredo/Violetta)
  6. La Traviata: Act One: Ebben? Che diavol fate? (Gastone/Violetta/Alfredo)
  7. La Traviata: Act One: Si ridesta in ciel l'aurora (Flora/Gastone/Barone/Dottore/Marchese/Coro)
  8. La Traviata: Act One: E strano! E strano!
  9. La Traviata: Act One: Ah, fors'e lui che l'anima
  10. La Traviata: Act One: Follie! follie! Delirio vano e questo! (Violetta)
  11. La Traviata: Act One: Sempre libera (Violetta - Alfredo)
  12. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Lunge da lei
  13. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: De' miei bollenti spiriti (Alfredo)
  14. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Annina, donde vieni?...Alfredo?...Per Parigi or or partiva (Alfredo/Annina/Violetta/Germont)
  15. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Pura siccome un angelo
  16. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Non sapete quale affetto
  17. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Un di, quando le veneri
  18. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Ah! dite alla giovine
  19. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Imponete...Non amarlo ditegli
  20. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Morro! La mia memoria (Germont/Violetta)
  21. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Dammi tu forza, o cielo! (Violetta/Annina)
  22. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Che fai?...Nulla (Alfredo/Violetta)
  23. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Ah, vive sol quel core all'amore mio! (Alfredo/Commissionario/Germont)
  24. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene One: Di Provenza il mar (Germont /Alfredo)

Tracks:

  1. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene Two: Avram lieta di maschere la notte (Flora/Marchese/Dottore)
  2. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene Two: Noi siamo zingarelle (Coro/Flora/Marchese/Dottore)
  3. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene Two: Di Madride noi siam mattadori (Coro/Gastone/Flora/Dottore/Marchese)
  4. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene Two: Alfredo! Voi!
  5. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene Two: Invitato a qui seguirmi
  6. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene Two: Ogni suo aver tal femmina (Flora/Gastone/Barone/Dottore/Marchese/Coro)
  7. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene Two: Di sprezzo degno se stesso rende (Germont/Alfredo/Flora/Gastone/Barone/Dottore/Marchese/Coro)
  8. La Traviata: Act Two: Scene Two: Alfredo, Alfredo, di questo core (Violetta/Germont/Alfredo/Gastone/Barone/Dottore/Marchese/Coro)
  9. La Traviata: Act Three: Preludio (Orchestra)
  10. La Traviata: Act Three: Annina? ...Comandate? (Violetta/Annina/Dottore)
  11. La Traviata: Act Three: Teneste la promessa
  12. La Traviata: Act Three: Addio, del passato (Violetta)
  13. La Traviata: Act Three: Largo al quadrupede (Coro)
  14. La Traviata: Act Three: Signora!... Che t'accadde?
  15. La Traviata: Act Three: Parigi, o cara (Annina/Violetta/Alfredo)
  16. La Traviata: Act Three: Ah, non piu, a un tempio
  17. La Traviata: Act Three: Ah! gran Dio! Morir si giovine (Violetta/Alfredo)
  18. La Traviata: Act Three: Ah! Violetta...Voi, signor!
  19. La Traviata: Act Three: Prendi, quest'e l'immagine (Germont/Violetta/Alfredo)
  20. La Traviata: Act Three: Se una pudica vergine (Violetta/Germont/Alfredo/Annina/Dottore)

Amazon.com essential recording

This live recording of the 1955 Visconti production at La Scala is the best of the available Maria Callas Traviatas. Aside from a minor pitch problem or two, she's in great voice, coloring phrases to reveal character and investing the coloratura with variety and passion. Her "Addio del passato" is heart-breaking. She fully captures Violetta's pride and vulnerability in the scene with Germont, though her partner, Ettore Bastianini, sings insensitively, if beautifully. Giuseppe Di Stefano is all one could ask for as Alfredo. Carlo Giulini conducts a performance that delivers all the lyricism and drama of the score. The recorded sound is primitive, but in EMI's latest transfer you can listen through it to a wondrous performance. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Verdi: Opera LaTraviata.......2007-07-04

Enjoyable recording,singers Maria Callas, DiStefano,Bastianini surperb. Clarity as if recently recorded. Orchestra and chorus fantastic.

5 out of 5 stars The Sound is very listenable.......2007-01-05

Don't be put off by other reviewers' rants on the sound of this superb performance. If you're comfortable listening to some of the better Opera D'Oro sets, you'll find this more than satisfactory. I ordered it recently despite those complaints and am VERY glad I did. If you want to hear truly unforgivable EMI sound of a pirate Callas, listen to the MACBETH; you'll then see what a good job EMI did with this Callas performance. But if you decide you want the Lisbon TRAVIATA instead of this one, just about everyone says the Pearl is far superior to EMI in their remastering job.

4 out of 5 stars Come closer to Maria Callas.......2007-01-03

This CD is a master piece of Maria Callas' performance. Together with Stefano, they created a milestone that their followers are difficult to overpass. Listen to this live, you feel you were back in 1955. The atmosphere it produced is fresh and new to the later generations. But because the record technique as mono, not stereo, if you feel untolerable for the mono, it will cut your expectation little bit. But generally, if you are really a fans of Maria Callas, you will definately like it.

5 out of 5 stars Best of La Traviata and Maria Callas.......2006-11-13

Even though this recording is not stereophonic, you can still enjoy the marvelous voice of Maria Callas. You don't have to see her performance to understand how artistic she was. With her voice she was not actually singing, but she was acting as well. Not many singers could portrait Violetta's character like Maria Callas portraits in this particular recording. I would definitely recommend everyone who is interested in operas or not interested at all. La Traviata in general is a very light opera, so you do not have to be an opera buff to like it.

5 out of 5 stars Simply the best..........2006-03-19

This recording of one of the greatest Verdi's opera is surely the best I've ever heard. Callas was at her top, others interprets are excellent also. A great historical piece of art.

Puccini: Tosca (1953) with Callas, di Stefano, Gobbi, cond. by de Sabata
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Why 5... Find Out!
  • Outstanding De Sabata! Most famous and controversial Tosca!
  • The Tosca of the century
  • Wow Wow Wow Wow Wow!!!!
 Puccini: Tosca (1953) with Callas, di Stefano, Gobbi, cond. by de Sabata

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Tito Gobbi, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tullio Serafin
  2. Mascagni: Cavalleria Rusticana & Leoncavallo: Pagliacci (complete operas) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  3. Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan
  4. Bellini: I Puritani
  5. Bizet: Carmen (Complete Opera); Mirella Freni; Jon Vickers; Grace Bumbry

ASIN: B0000E3HM3
Release Date: 2003-12-02

Tracks:

  1. Ah! Finalmente!
  2. E Sempre Lava!
  3. Sante Ampolle! Il Suo Ritratto!
  4. Dammi I Colori...Recondita Armonia
  5. Gente La Dentro!
  6. Mario!...Mario!...Mario!...Son Qui!
  7. Ora Stammi A Sentir
  8. Or Lasciami Al Lavoro
  9. Ah, Quegli Occhi...Quale Occhio Al Mondo
  10. Mia Gelosa!
  11. E Buona La Mia Tosca
  12. Sommo Giubilo, Eccellenza!
  13. Un Tal Baccano In Chiesa!
  14. Tosca? Che Non Mi Veda
  15. Ed Io Venivo A Lui Tutta Dogliosa
  16. Tre Sbirri, Una Carrozza

Tracks:

  1. Tosca E Un Buon Falco!
  2. Ha Piu Forte Sapore
  3. O Galantuomo, Come Ando La Caccia?
  4. Meno Male!
  5. Ov'E Angelotti?
  6. Ed Or Fra Noi Parliam Da Buoni Amici
  7. Sciarrone, Che Dice Il Cavalier?
  8. Orsu, Tosca, Parlate
  9. Floria!...Amore
  10. Salvatelo!...Lo?...Voi!
  11. Se La Giurata Fede Debbo Tradir...Gia Mi Struggea L'Amor
  12. Come Tu Mi Odi!
  13. Vissi D'Arte
  14. Vedi, Le Man Giunte Io Stendo A Te!
  15. Lo Tenni La Promessa
  16. Tosca, Finalmente Mia!
  17. Or Gli Perdono!
  18. Andante Sostenuto
  19. Lento (Le Campane Suonano Mattutino)
  20. Largo - Mario Cavaradossi? A voi... - Meno
  21. E Lucevan Le Stelle
  22. Moderato Con Moto
  23. O Dolci Mani Mansuete E Pure
  24. Senti, I'Ora E Vicina
  25. Amaro Sol Per Te M'Era Il Moire
  26. E Non Giungono
  27. Come E Lunga I'Attesa!
  28. Presto! Su, Mario!

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Why 5... Find Out!.......2006-10-13

When I first got this recording, it was my first Tosca. As such, I didn't know what to listen to (or what to listen for) and really at the time the only other soprano I had heard was Cecilia Bartoli in La Cenerentola. So bascially it was my first Tosca with my only soprano. Even so, I knew after listening to the second act that this would be the best Tosca I had ever heard. Callas gives an amazingly intuitive dramatic performance of Tosca, with di Stefano matching her wonderfully as Cavaradossi. Tito Gobbi, of course, is Scarpia and gives the role an extremely insightful flair. Spoletta is played by Angelo Mercuriali, who gives, if not the most dramatic, certainly a precise interpretation of the role. As with all of Callas's Tosca recordings, the second act (i.e. from "Tosca e un buon falco!" to "E qual via scegliete?") is perhaps the best interpretation of the music and the donna Tosca that I have heard. Behind the baton is Victor de Sabata, who provides a unique insight into the music. He brings out, as Toscanini says, "what Puccini intended for the audience to hear". 5 stars.

5 out of 5 stars Outstanding De Sabata! Most famous and controversial Tosca! .......2004-08-07



This is one of the few recordings in which the conductor attracted my attention more than the singers. This is not to dismiss the singers but De Sabata's conducting makes this the most idiomatic Tosca recording I've ever heard.

All three protagonists are heard here in their short-lived prime. Callas in firm voice is a capricious, nervous and furious Tosca. Many accuse her of overacting but here she controls herself and most outbreaks sound sincere. You won't hear the grandness, dignity and beauty of Tebaldi's Tosca but Callas' Tosca is a unique creation. No need to argue which one is better, they both are legendary and besides, tastes differ.

Di Stefano is all ardour and tenderness in this most beloved tenor role. I can already hear the manners that eventually ruined his instrument but he nevertheless is a memorable Mario. Gobbi's Scarpia frightens Tosca not because of what he is but because of what he can do. Gobbi doesn't have the huge voice that made Bastianini or London so scary but he uses his to great effect and creates a sinister Baron Scarpia. Luise's Sagristano is most convincing.

One of the greatest virtues of this old Tosca recording is its vitality and chemistry between the performers. No wonder that since its release it's impossible to make and accurate historical evaluation of Puccini's Tosca without taking it into account. Finally released at budget price!

5 out of 5 stars The Tosca of the century.......2004-05-17

This recording has been showered with accolades and praise by critics, operafans, reviewers etc. etc. And listening to it a whole world comes to life. In a time when Puccini's masterpieces are destroyed by arrogant "directors" this golden age recording is like a breath of fresh air. Callas is in her prime, sounding fresh, loving, passionate and fascinating. She became Tosca, all her jealousies, passions, moods, fears are so real, so sublime and natural that you'll forget that you're listening to a recording. She cleared Tosca of those veristic, fish-wife tears after "Egli ved ch'io piango!" and her tears and agony are heard through her voice alone. Listen to Tosca's ardent "A come la sai bene l'arte di farti amare!" ... She sounds so gorgeous, so lucid and passionate, it'll warm your heart. Then there is act II with the never equalled clash between Tosca and the evil Scarpia sung and acted to perfection by Callas (Whose high Cs will chill you!) and Gobbi. (The only Scarpia) Listen to Callas' tearful, beautiful "Vissi d'arte" sung with exquisite legato, velvety warmth and most tearful colours. Pleading "Why, oh lord dost thou repay me thus?" she will break your heart! The chilling murder of Scarpia with Callas/Tosca ROARING "M'ai assai TORTURATO!!!!!" is too thrilling to describe. And the final duet sung with di Stefano and Tosca's suicide are portrayed hauntingly. Di Stefano, her favourite partner and part of the greatest operatic trio of the century (Callas, di Stefano, Gobbi) sounds sunny, charming and passionate. In short: It's the best Tosca ever recorded.

5 out of 5 stars Wow Wow Wow Wow Wow!!!!.......2004-03-16

This is my first Callas recording. I was curious about her, of course, but I was always put off by descriptions of more or less horrendous audio problems on the famous recordings. Used to modern recordings, I didn't know how I'd react to such bad sound, so I put off trying.

No more! This is a new (12/03) EMI Remaster of the famous de Sabata "Tosca" -- yes, THE definitive "Tosca" starring Callas, Di Stefano, and Gobbi. And I can tell you it sounds WONDERFUL!

Why is this set so affordable, then? I have no idea! There is no libretto included, only a slim booklet with a track list, a short synopsis of the action for each track, and one article about the opera and this performance. There is no cardboard case, and only a simple 2-part jewelcase, not the hefty one often provided with opera CD sets.

But it's enough!! It's more than enough! I'd buy these disks if they were sold loose in a paper bag. I am totally, permanently won over. This performance is simply electrifying! The music leaps out of the speakers and grabs you. Callas as Tosca had me in tears! Scarpia scared me! It's too good to believe it happened several decades ago.

All I can say is, Buy this now before they realize what a gem this is and raise the price! You won't regret it.
Luciano Pavrotti: The Best (Farewell Tour)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Luciano Pavrotti: The Best (Farewell Tour)
  • Luciano Pavorotti
  • Luciano is the best!
 Luciano Pavrotti: The Best (Farewell Tour)

Manufacturer: Decca
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Similar Items:
  1. The Best of the Three Tenors
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  5. The Best of Luciano Pavarotti: 20th Century Masters/The Millennium Collection

ASIN: B0007V5WB4
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

  1. La donna obile
  2. Una furtiva lagrima
  3. "Libiamo ne'lieti calici (Brindisi)
  4. Donna non vidi mai
  5. Che gelida manina
  6. O soave fanciulla
  7. Mi batte il cor...O Paradiso!
  8. M'appari
  9. Quando le sere al placido chiaror d'un ciel stellato
  10. Se quel guerrier io fossi!..Celeste Aida
  11. Forse la soglia attinse
  12. Recitar! - "Vesti la giubba"
  13. Come un bel di maggio
  14. Ah mes amis - Pour mon
  15. Di quella pira
  16. Nessun dorma!

Tracks:

  1. Torna a Surriento
  2. Santa Lucia luntana
  3. La Danza
  4. L'ultima canzone
  5. Non t'amo pi
  6. Mattinata
  7. 'O sole mio
  8. 'A vucchella
  9. Core 'ngrato
  10. Nel blu, dipinto di blu
  11. Vivere
  12. Il Canto
  13. Caruso
  14. Buongiorno a te
  15. Ti adoro
  16. E lucevan le stelle
  17. Questa o quella (Ballata)
  18. Parmi veder le lagrime

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Luciano Pavrotti: The Best (Farewell Tour).......2007-06-27

Wonderful Pavarotti sings the best of the best. His voice never ceases to amaze me. Listening pleasure at it's finest.

5 out of 5 stars Luciano Pavorotti.......2007-02-17

All the songs are wonderful, can never become tired of listening to his songs. Excellent.

5 out of 5 stars Luciano is the best!.......2007-01-20

I can't speak more highly of this collection of Pavrotti's songs. I keep this two CD pack in my car so I can enjoy it on my way to and from work. Even after I have arrived, I find myself sitting in my car waiting for a song to end. Walking out on a song seems sacriligious. While I grew up listening to Caruso and Lanza, there is no question that Pavrotti is the Master! Although, I do have to admit Pavrotti has the greater advantage of modern recording technology to better present his talent than Caruso and Lanza had. However, Lanza definitely didn't have the power that Pavrotti has. With Caruso, we will never know... I highly recommend this collection of Pavrotti's, if you are a Pavrotti fan. If you aren't, buy it anyway and become one:)


















Puccini: La Boheme (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Anna Moffo, Antonino Votto, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Satisfied customer
  • Not a first-rank Boheme
  • Who would have thought?
  • Callas: An Unexpected, Heartbreaking Mimi
  • Moved to tears
 Puccini: La Boheme (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Anna Moffo, Antonino Votto, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
Giacomo Puccini
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Puccini: Madama Butterfly (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Lucia Danieli, Nicolai Gedda, Herbert von Karajan, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  2. Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan
  3. Puccini: Tosca (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Victor de Sabata, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  4. Bizet: Carmen (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Nicolai Gedda, Georges Pretre, Paris Opera Orchestra
  5. Verdi: Rigoletto (Complete Opera); Maria Callas; Tito Gobbi; Giuseppe di Stefano

ASIN: B000002RXW
Release Date: 1997-08-19

Tracks:

  1. Questo Mar Rosso Mi Ammollisce E Assidera
  2. Abbasso, Abbasso L'Autor!
  3. Si Puo?...Chi E La?
  4. Al Quartiere Latin Ci Attende Momus
  5. Non Sono In Vena
  6. Che Gelida Manina!
  7. Si. Mi Chiamano Mimi
  8. Ehi! Rodolfo!...O Soave Fanciulla
  9. Aranci, Datteri!
  10. Chi Guardi?...Odio Il Profano Volgo
  11. Beviam...Ch'io Beva Del Tossico!
  12. Quando Men' Vo
  13. Chi L'Ha Richiesto?...Vediam

Tracks:

  1. Ohe, La, Le Guardie...Aprite!
  2. Mimi?!...Speravo Di Trovarvi Qui
  3. Marcello. Finalmente
  4. D'Onde Lieta Usci Al Tuo Grido D'Amore
  5. Dunque E Proprio Finita?
  6. In Un Coupe?...Con Pariglia E Livree
  7. O Mimi, Tu Piu Non Torni
  8. Che Ora Sia?
  9. C'E Mimi...C'E Mimi Che Mi Segue E Che Sta Male
  10. Vecchia Zimarra, Senti
  11. Schaunard, Ognuno Per Diversa Via
  12. Sono Andatl?
  13. Oh Dio! Mimi!...Che Avvien?

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Satisfied customer.......2007-07-25

The product was in perfect shape
and exactly the one that I wanted.
The price was really good and the package superb.
I can gladly recommend the Amazon store.

3 out of 5 stars Not a first-rank Boheme.......2006-10-31

Comparing this with the Freni/Pavarotti/Karajan recording that is my benchmark for the work...

1. While I enjoy large-scale performances of opera scores in general, and Karajan's in particular, Votto's lighter hand is probably closer to the composer's intentions and serves the music very nicely.

2. di Stefano has a marvelous heroic gleam in his voice - and, unlike Pavarotti, actually articulates the syllables. It would be nice if he had Pav's power - since when he tries to cut through the orchestra at full blare I'm afraid he's going to rupture something. But as I once said in a Wagner review: Opera, like politics, is an art of compromises.

3. I know the Callas fanatics will flay me alive for this, but Mimi isn't a role where you can get by on "expressiveness" alone. At some points, the soprano simply has to make with the canary. But when La Divina goes for that big offstage "Amor!" at the end of "Che gelida manina", she sounds more like a cat whose tail got under the rocking chair.

5 out of 5 stars Who would have thought?.......2005-01-18

Who would have thought that Callas, who had the great voice for Verdi, Bellini, Rossini, Donizetti, Spontini, Cherubini, Bizet, Giordano, Gluck, Massenet, Haydn (yes, she performed a world premiere for a long forgotten opera called Orfeo ed Euridice), great Puccini roles, and Wagner, would have succeeded at an AMAZING Mimi, a frail role associated with light sopranos who play around with the character. From her very first breath to the last utterance by the flower girl in her death scene, no other soprano could have bettered Callas in both voice and dramatization in this indelible recording of Puccini's favorite opera (ask around, it's not Madama Butterfly). Of course, since Maria Anna Sophia Cecilia Kalegoropoulos was born a natural tragedienne, she was undoubtedly going to succeed in this role. This is one of the many reasons, possibly the most important reason, why this Boheme should not be overlooked.

Then there is Giuseppe di Stefano, the passionate Italian tenor who sings Rodolfo like no one ever did or ever will. He sang it with an ardour which would leave one in tears. He is the ideal Rodolfo voice, with his ability to color phrases with shades and tones of passion and love and hate and anger. In this aspect, he was almost Callas' equal. He doesn't sing it like Pavarotti, who I believe sings Rodolfo like a cow being dragged into the slaughterhouse. Pavarotti screams too many of his high notes, and he only became world famous for his nine high C's in the Pour Mon Ame aria from Donizetti's La Fille du Regiment. He fails however, in darker composer works like Puccini and Verdi. He should have stayed in the bel canto repertoire where he could have done more wonders with his voice.

Then there the HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT and FIERY Anna Moffo as the controversial Musetta. How fortunate we are to have this first-rate prima donna in this recording side-by-side with Callas and di Stefano. And Rolando Panerai...stellar cast!

Not a recording to miss.

5 out of 5 stars Callas: An Unexpected, Heartbreaking Mimi.......2004-09-22

Votto, almost more than any other conductor I can think of, has a feel for this score that is natural and always in the moment - like no other. I know every note of this score, but that night - on 48 year old vinyl - I was hearing things in the score I'd not noticed before. Act II has never been more fun than in this recording and the young Anna Moffo is a delight - frothy, self-important and able to
strike the perfect balance between sincerity and superficiality.

Callas's Mimi is fine, believable, in Act I, even if not as meltingly sung as her rivals on record (but she's still pretty darned close!).

Then come Acts III and IV - and no one comes close to matching Callas here - Freni and Tebaldi approach this, but Callas's uniqueness is special - if not for everyone. The sense of gravitas she gives to Mimi is made all the more remarkable by her lightness of touch and downplaying of the actual morbidness. Every note is weighted to give the maximum effect of a total
character and Mimi has never come more alive in any recording. Callas knows this character inside and out. It only makes me wonder what she might have been like in this role on stage. Even never having performed Mimi, Callas offers the most complete portrait of this tragic heroine, getting everything just right.

No this Boheme is not Callas alone as Votto's entire, perfectly blended cast, absolutely sparkles. Everyone sings this music as though it were brand new and the ink not yet dry on the score,. There is such youthful vibrancy and freshness to every bar. If the Act III scene between Mimi and Marcello fails to wrest a tear from your eye, well my friends, I can't then imagine what could!

Di Stefano pours his everything into Rodolfo and even with the voice not quite what it had been just a few years earlier - it's still a gorgeous sound and no Rodolfo is more passionate. The scenes between he and Mimi are some of the finest examples of acting with the voice I've yet encountered. Diction, breathing, sense of phrasing, timing and the colors each of them produce give an unusual sense of depth to these youthful characters.

Again, Votto's attention to the tiniest detail without an ounce of fussiness, his sense of propulsion - expanding and contracting the music to optimum effect for the singer is revelatory.

5 out of 5 stars Moved to tears.......2004-07-13

I just finished listening to this for the first time. Act III&IV are so beautiful, I'll never forget this experience. Callas and di Stefano, what a pair! Please buy this gem to know what La Boheme is all about!
Puccini: Tosca (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Victor de Sabata, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • The Incomparable Callas
  • A complete classic among classics
  • Stellar cast - stellar performance
  • A "Regular People" Review
  • this is not a review
 Puccini: Tosca (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Victor de Sabata, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
Giacomo Puccini , Victor De Sabata , Maria Callas , Giuseppe di Stefano , Tito Gobbi , and Orchestra e Coro del Teatro alla Scala
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  4. Puccini: Madama Butterfly (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Lucia Danieli, Nicolai Gedda, Herbert von Karajan, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  5. Puccini: La Boheme (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Anna Moffo, Antonino Votto, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan

ASIN: B000002RXZ
Release Date: 1997-08-19

Tracks:

  1. TOSCA: Ah! Finalmente! (Cavaradossi)
  2. TOSCA: Dammi i colori...Recondita armonia (Cavaradossi)
  3. TOSCA: Gente lentro! (Cavaradossi - Tosca)
  4. TOSCA: Mario! Mario! Mario!
  5. TOSCA: Ah, quegli occhi...Quale occhio al mondo puar di paro (Tosca - Cavaradossi)
  6. TOSCA: buona la mia Tosca (Cavaradossi)
  7. TOSCA: Un tal baccano in chiesa! (Scarpia)
  8. TOSCA: Tutto hiaro...Tosca? Che non mi veda...Mario! Mario! (Scarpia - Tosca)
  9. TOSCA: Ed io venivo a lui tutta dogliosa (Tosca - Scarpia)
  10. TOSCA: Tre sbirri, una carrozza (Scarpia)

Tracks:

  1. TOSCA: Tosca n buon falco! (Scarpia)
  2. TOSCA: Ha pite (Scarpia)
  3. TOSCA: Meno male! (Scarpia - Cavaradossi)
  4. TOSCA: Dov'unque Angelotti? (Scarpia - Cavaradossi - Tosca)
  5. TOSCA: Ed or fra noi parliam da buoni amici...Scarrione, che dice il Cavalier? (Scarpia - Tosca - Cavaradossi)
  6. TOSCA: Orssca, parlate (Scarpia - Tosca - Caravadossi)
  7. TOSCA: Basta, Roberti
  8. TOSCA: Nel pozzo....Del giardino (Scarpia - Tosca - Caravadossi)
  9. TOSCA: Se la giurata fede debbo tradir (Scarpia - Tosca)
  10. TOSCA: Vissi d'arte (Tosca)
  11. TOSCA: Vedi, le man guinte io stendo a te! (Scarpia - Tosca)
  12. TOSCA: E qual via scegliete? (Scarpia - Tosca)
  13. TOSCA: Io de' sospiri
  14. TOSCA: Act III / Mario Cavaradossi? A voi (Cavaradossi)
  15. TOSCA: E lucevan le stelle (Cavaradossi)
  16. TOSCA: Ah! Franchigia a Floria Tosca
  17. TOSCA: O dolci mani mansuete e pure (Cavaradossi - Tosca)
  18. TOSCA: E non giungono (Tosca - Cavaradossi)
  19. TOSCA: Com'unga l'attesa! (Tosca)
  20. TOSCA: Presto! Su, Mario! Mario! Su! Presto! Andiam! (Tosca)

Amazon.com essential recording

Little can be added to what's been written about this landmark recording, except that Walter Legge's 1953 mono production yields nothing to modern Tosca recordings for vivacity and theatrical impact--especially Maria Callas's. The miraculous Victor de Sabata conjures up a vibrant, inspiring orchestral canvas that enables Callas and her stellar cohorts to work their magic. Tito Gobbi and Callas spur each other on to heights in which the characters take over from the singers in the listener's mind. Giuseppe Di Stefano is on his best behavior, and in fresher voice than on his fine Leontyne Price-Herbert von Karajan remake. On this set, EMI includes texts, translations, and notes that discuss this recording in the context of Callas's mercurial career. --Jed Distler

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The Incomparable Callas .......2007-05-13

She was sui generis (unlike any other) and for any fan of Mme. Callas this CD is a "must have!!! For the younger generation who were not fortunate enough to have ever heard her in person, her voice, although imperfect,portrays the complexity of Floria Tosca, through the delicate shadings of Callas' voice. Tosca is vulnerable, she is jealous, she is loving, she is delicate and tough at the same time. All of this is plain to hear through the marvel of this greatest of singing actresses.

5 out of 5 stars A complete classic among classics.......2007-03-19

This is one of the few opera recordings that can reach immortality. De Sabata conducts superb over orchestra and a trinity of "monsters": Di Stefano, Callas and Gobbi understood not only the music but the drama. Opera as it always must be. What can we say about the climatic experience of Callas and Gobbi together, probably the most talented actors in opera?
At the end, pay attention (it is impossible not to) to Tosca's death... In the voice of Callas, no other soprano in history have achieved such perfection.

5 out of 5 stars Stellar cast - stellar performance.......2007-01-11

What more can be said about this recording that has not already been abundantly elaborated?
Callas at her best with a supporting cast that made this recording stand the test of time. I received two recordings this Christmas as a present so that I can compare and perhaps change my mind (the Alagna - Gheorghiou & the Leontyne Price sets). I listened carefully and although I have to admit that Price's voice has a more melodic sonority Callas was the ultimate performer what little she may have lacked in her voice she more than made with her dramatic qualities, she had a stage presence that can be "heard" without having to watch her.
This is truly a premier performance of an operatic masterpiece. Enjoy it.

5 out of 5 stars A "Regular People" Review.......2006-12-04

Hey I'm an Opera newbie trying to find his way around the maze with the help of Opera 101 (any Opera guru's out there that would like to help me out here?). Thanks to the Books advice I picked up this Opera and WOW! This is great stuff. Don't be intimidated by Opera you'll be missing out on this!

5 out of 5 stars this is not a review.......2006-08-15

Just the fact that this product has gathered 123 reviewers by the time I write my first comment ever in a similar internet site, should tell something per se... I am a singer myself. I could write endless technical comments on the slightest vocal or musical nuance these four legendary musicians have contributed here. Empty words! Just ask yourselves: "Do I really and humbly love Music!?" If the answer is "YES!!!", run and buy this recording.

PS. Listen with the libretto in your hands (translation of it if you dont speak italian). Do it. At least the first time through... a Sunday afternoon. You'll remember me.
Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Tito Gobbi, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tullio Serafin
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Callas, di Stefano and Gobbi. Lucia di Lammermoor.
  • An actress, and a woman sings
  • Best Studio Recording
  • Lovely recording
  • Not THAT much shorter, the traditional cuts
 Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Tito Gobbi, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tullio Serafin

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Puccini: Tosca (1953) with Callas, di Stefano, Gobbi, cond. by de Sabata
  2. Bellini: I Puritani
  3. Mascagni: Cavalleria Rusticana & Leoncavallo: Pagliacci (complete operas) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  4. Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan
  5. Maria Callas 100 Best Classics

ASIN: B00064N8S6
Release Date: 2005-01-11

Tracks:

  1. Preludio
  2. Percorrete Le Spiagge Vicine
  3. Tu Sei Turbato!...E N'ho Ben Donde
  4. Cruda, Funesta Smania
  5. Il Tuo Dubbio E Omai Certezza
  6. La Pietade In Suo Favore
  7. Maestoso
  8. Ancor Non Giunse!
  9. Regnava Nel Silenzio
  10. Quando Rapito In Estasi
  11. Egli S'Avanza
  12. Sulla Tomba Che Rinserra
  13. Qui Di Sposa Eterna Fede
  14. Ah, Talor Del Tuo Pensiero
  15. Veranno E Te Sull'Aure

Tracks:

  1. Moderato/Lucia Fra Poco A Te Verra
  2. Appressati, Lucia
  3. Il Pallor Fuesto, Orrendo...A Ragion Mi Fe' Spietato
  4. Nobil Sposo...Cessa, Cessa!
  5. Soffriva Nel Pianto
  6. Che Fia?...Suonar Di Giubilo
  7. Se Tradirmi Tu Potrai
  8. Per Te D'Immenso Giubilo...Per Poco Fra Le Tenebre
  9. Dov'E Lucia?...Qui Giungere Or La Vedrem
  10. Ecco Il Tuo Sposo
  11. Chi Mi Frena In Tal Momento
  12. T'Allontana, Sciagurato...Rispettate In Me Di Dio
  13. Sconsigliato! In Queste Porte Chi Ti Guida?
  14. Esci, Fuggi, Il Furor Chem M'Accende
  15. D'Immenso Giubilo
  16. Ah!...Deh, Cessate Que! Contento!...Dalle Stanze Ove Lucia
  17. Oh! Qual Funesto Avvenimento!
  18. Oh Giusto Cielo!...Il Dolce Suono
  19. Ohime! Sorge Il Tremendo
  20. Ardon Gli Incensi; Splendon Le Sacre Faci
  21. Spargi D'Amaro Pianto
  22. Maestoso...Tombe Degli Avi Miei
  23. Fra Poco A Me Ricovero
  24. O, Meschina! O, Fato Orrendo!
  25. Dove Corri, Sventurato?
  26. Tu Che A Dio Spiegasti I'Ali
  27. Che Facesti?

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Callas, di Stefano and Gobbi. Lucia di Lammermoor........2007-06-08

Beautiful recording, fabulous voices, Callas was at her very best in this period

5 out of 5 stars An actress, and a woman sings .......2007-01-10

Befoe Maria came onto the scene in 1952, I actually believed that only the "whistling teakettle" type of voice could sing this type of work. When I actually heard a woman's voice, I was transformed from that day.

5 out of 5 stars Best Studio Recording.......2006-11-01

Without a doubt this is the best studio recording of the opera hands down. Callas, Di Stefano and Gobbi are in fine form and Serafin keeps things going at a good pace. The best RECORDING of the opera is of course the 1955 Berlin performance with Karajan conducting. The sound is quite good as Callas bootlegs go and everybody is ON FIRE. One of those magical moments that thankfully somebody taped. If you MUST have your stereo, go with the first Sutherland recording or the Gruberova/Kraus/Rescigno.

5 out of 5 stars Lovely recording.......2005-03-30

I'm a huge bel canto fan and Lucia is one of my top 3 operas. (The others are NORMA and ANNA BOLENA) There is no other Lucia like Callas. Nobody embodies the melancholy, the tragic, fragile beauty and the torment of this doomed heroine more than she. And her coloratura and E-flats glitter and sparkle but never sound senseless or bland. Her partners (di Stefano, Gobbi) are in pristine form and Serafin conducts bel canto with unmatched perfection. This is THE Lucia to buy! A steal, grab it while you can!

5 out of 5 stars Not THAT much shorter, the traditional cuts.......2005-03-17

One can say whatever one likes but IMHO that short review below doesn't do justice to the brilliance of this recording which is not 30 minutes shorter than the Sutherland-recording from 1971. The traditional cuts don't harm the score (The only addition I'd like to see would be the tower-scene), on the contrary, they focus the drama and don't prolong it unnecessarily. The three leads are in brilliant form, the conductor is unmatched. Brava! Brava! Bravissima!
Maria Callas - La Divina
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Landmark Soprano. An essential work for opera listeners.
  • Terrific introduction to the art of Callas
  • Callas was the greatest
  • Great starter CD
  • The epitome of divinity
 Maria Callas - La Divina
Giacomo Puccini , Vincenzo Bellini , Georges Bizet , Gioachino Rossini , Alfredo Catalani , Camille Saint-Saëns , Giuseppe Verdi , Charles Gounod , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Pietro Mascagni , Amilcare Ponchielli , Tullio Serafin , Georges Prêtre , Nicola Rescigno , Franco Ghione , Antonino Votto , Maria Callas , Alfredo Kraus , Ebe Ticozzi , Giuseppe di Stefano , London Philharmonia Orchestra , Orchestra e Coro del Teatro alla Scala , Orchestre National de la R.D.F. , Conservatory Concert Society Orchestra , and Lisbon Orquesta Sinfonica del Teatro Nacional de San Carlos
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. La Divina 2
  2. Maria Callas: La Divina 3
  3. The Very Best Of Maria Callas
  4. Maria Callas, the Voice of the Century
  5. Maria Callas: The Legend

ASIN: B000002RT6
Release Date: 1993-09-14

Tracks:

  1. Madama Butterfly: Un bel di, vedremo (Atto ll)
  2. Carmen: L'amour est un oiseau rebelle (Habanera) (Acte l)
  3. La Wally: Ebben? ne andro lontana (Atto l)
  4. Il Barbiere di Siviglia: Una voce poco fa (Atto l)
  5. Norma: Casta Diva (Atto l)
  6. Samson et Dalila: Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voix (Acte ll)
  7. Rigoletto: Caro nome (Atto l)
  8. La Traviata: Sempre libera (Atto l)
  9. Romeo et Juliette: Je veux vivre dans ce reve (Acte l)
  10. La Boheme: Si, mi chiamano Mimi (Atto l)
  11. Don Giovanni: Mi tradi quell'alma ingrata (Atto ll)
  12. Cavalleria Rusticana: Voi lo sapete, o mamma
  13. La Gioconda: Suicidio! (Atto lV)
  14. Gianni Schicchi1: O mio babbino caro
  15. Turandot: In questa reggia (Atto ll)
  16. TOSCA: Vissi d'arte, vissi d'amore (Atto ll)

Amazon.com

If you want to know the reason behind all the fuss about Maria Callas, buy this CD. Callas's great gift was not purity of tone or emission, reliability, or sheer loveliness; it was, rather, her ability to change her vocal color and style to suit not only particular periods of opera but to get under the skin of the individual characters she portrayed. Here you will hear the 18-year-old Butterfly imagining the return of her beloved; the sultry, adult Carmen seducing all around her; the youthful Wally telling her cruel father that she will go off into the cold wilderness rather than give up her boyfriend; the sly Rosina planning to outfox her guardian; the priestess Norma performing a sacred rite; Dalila wrapping Samson around her little finger and more; Gioconda contemplating suicide when all hope is gone; Gilda recalling the name of the boy she's just fallen for; and the icy princess Turandot reliving the rape of her ancestor and swearing that no man will possess her. And you'll believe them all. At times Callas's vocalism is a bit wiry (Juliette sounds stressed, for instance); but, in all, this is like a visit with 16 women, all of them interesting, and all of them great singers! --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Landmark Soprano. An essential work for opera listeners........2007-05-26

Maria Callas may be the only female 'superstar' working in my lifetime. In the 1950s and early 1960's, she had all the star power and paparrazi draw of Jackie and Marilyn, far outstripping the fame to the world at large of her primary rival, Renita Tibaldi. I am not an expert, or even an experienced amateur at evaluating operatic sopranos; however I've listened to several of the modern crop, and while the newbies probably do a better job of keeping on key, none of them can match the drama emoted by Ms. Callas on any given aria. All three releases are especially good buys, as they all run to over 72 minutes; however the recording quality does show its early (pre-multitrack, pre-digital) recording technology. Each is as good as the next regarding content, but 2 and 3 are a bit better in sound quality.

5 out of 5 stars Terrific introduction to the art of Callas.......2007-04-24

This album is entitled "Divina," not to be confused with "Divina 2," itself a very nice example of Callas at her best. This CD samples a variety of her roles, indicating the range of her art. A few examples. . . .

"Un bel di" from Puccini's "Madama Butterfly" is very well done. She displays a rich voice and a passionate rendering of this aria. At greater volume, her voice remains under control and attractive sounding (something that does not always occur as her career developed further).

The "Habanera" from Bizet's "Carmen" is normally a mezzo soprano work. However, Callas features a good lower tone, and it works pretty well here. She shows nice breath control, too. The orchestral backing is exceptional.

"Sempre libera," from Verdi's "La Traviata," is a soprano's dream. Here, though, Callas' voice is not as attractive as in other cuts. There is some harshness with higher notes. Alfredo Kraus' singing, by the way, is most attractive. There is some unpleasantness with Callas technique in this work, although there is a nice characterization as well (this is the price you pay for Callas). She shows off some nice runs, but zero in the way of trills (some other sopranos display nice trills in this piece).

Finally, a very well done version of "Si, mi chiamano Mimi" from Puccini's "La Boheme." Sweet sounds at the outset. She seems to capture the character well. Smooth singing, done well.

Thus, a good introduction to the art of Maria Callas. There are cuts here that feature some of the wondrous nature of her work. There are other cuts where one hears some unattractive aspects of her singing and one wonders about her technique. But, in the end, this is a good representation of the work of Callas.

5 out of 5 stars Callas was the greatest.......2007-02-06

It's amazing how the anti-Callas claquers continue to thrive. I'll side with Leonard Bernstein, who labeled Callas "The Bible of Opera," and who described her 1952 performance of La Sonnambula under his baton as "pure electricity." Unfortunately, recordings don't do justice to any artist, given the lack of spontaneity and a full audience, as well as a host of other reasons. Even Callas withheld many recordings from release because she was her own worst critic and they did not meet her high standards. I've been listening to opera for over 30 years and although I can appreciate the artistry of Tebaldi, Sutherland, Sills, Freni, Carteri, Moffo, Price, etc., some of whom had better pure voices, there was none that could match Maria's intensity, passion, range, personality, acting ability and pure emotion. Callas could sing bel canto colaratura but drop down to a near-mezzo voice that included many dramatic roles.

The Callas bashers will always be with us, but thankfully they will always be in the tiny minority. True connossiers of opera know there never has been and never will be as great a singer as La Divina.

5 out of 5 stars Great starter CD.......2005-11-24

As simplistic as this sounds, this is a perfect CD if you know you like opera, but don't know exactly what you want to hear. You'll definitely recognize some of the more popular arias, and will grow to love the others.

5 out of 5 stars The epitome of divinity.......2005-03-31

Divine and then some.
A unique mezzo voice delivering a 'one-two-three punch': one in the gut, one in the heart and one in the head.
The listener instinctually senses all she imparts-regardless of French,Italian,German literacy or opera knowledge.
Her gifts were many-the 'voice'(simultaneously:sharp,buttery,bright and dark),inimitable phrasing,timing,dramatic intensity and versatility.
A fine jumping off point for Callas neophytes and Opera 'sissies' who say they don't like Opera, but never really listened to any.
For all of us already converted, I say turn it up!
Mascagni: Cavalleria Rusticana & Leoncavallo: Pagliacci (complete operas) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Stunningly beautiful
  • A real bargain
  • OUTSTANDING IN EVERY WAY!
 Mascagni: Cavalleria Rusticana & Leoncavallo: Pagliacci (complete operas) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Puccini: Tosca (1953) with Callas, di Stefano, Gobbi, cond. by de Sabata
  2. Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Tito Gobbi, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tullio Serafin
  3. Bellini: I Puritani
  4. Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan
  5. Verdi: Macbeth (complete opera live 1952) with Maria Callas, Enzo Mascherini, Victor de Sabata, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan

ASIN: B0007Z0Y7C
Release Date: 2005-06-07

Tracks:

  1. Prelude
  2. O Lola Ch'hai Di Latti la Cammisa
  3. Prelude (Conclusion)
  4. Gli Aranci Olezzano
  5. Dite, Mamma Lucia
  6. Il Cavallo Scalpita
  7. Beato Voi, Compar Alfio
  8. Regina Coeli, Laetare; Alleluja!
  9. Inneggiamo, Il Signor Non E Morto
  10. Voi Lo Sapete, O Mamma
  11. Tu Qui, Santuzza?
  12. Fior Di Giaggiolo
  13. Ah! Lo Vedi, Che Hai Tu Detto?
  14. No, No, Turiddu, Rimani, Rimani Ancora
  15. Oh! Il Signore Vi Manda, Compar Alfio!
  16. Intermezzo
  17. A Casa, A Casa, Amici
  18. Viva Il Vino Spumeggiante
  19. A Voi Tutti, Salute!
  20. Mamma, Quel Vino E Generoso

Tracks:

  1. Si Puo? Si Puo?
  2. Son Qua! Ritornano
  3. Un Grande Spettacolo A Ventitre Ore
  4. Un Tal Gioco, Credetemi, E Meglio Non Giocarlo
  5. I Zampognari! ... Din, Don. Suona Vespero
  6. Qual Fiamma Avea Nel Guardo ... Hui! Stridono Lassu
  7. Sei La! Credea Che Te Ne Fossi Andato
  8. Son Ben Che Lo Scemo Contorto Son Io
  9. Nedda! ... Silvio! A Quest'ora, Che Imprudenza
  10. E Fra Quest'ansie In Eterno Vivrai?
  11. Non Mi Tentar!
  12. E Allor Perche, Di, Tu M'hai Stregato
  13. Derisione E Scherno!
  14. Recitar! Mentre Preso Dal Delirio
  15. Vesti la Giubba
  16. Intermezzo
  17. Presto, Affrettiamoci
  18. Pagliaccio, Mio Marito
  19. Ah! Colombina, Il Tenero
  20. Di Fare Il Segno Convenuto
  21. Di Fare Il Segno Convenuto
  22. Coraggio! Un Uomo Era Con Te
  23. No, Pagliaccio Non Son
  24. Suvvia, Cosi Terribile

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Stunningly beautiful.......2005-12-08

Verismo can sound positively sublime if sung with taste and no mannerisms. Maria Callas, in her short prime, transformed roles such as Floria Tosca, Santuzza, Nedda and Maddalena and gave them the elegance and simplicity they need to be acceptable. Be it the simple country girl Santuzza or the noble Maddalena, Callas finds the right tone for each and every character. Her Santuzza is tearful but never racked by fake sobs. Her "Io son dannata!" has to be heard to be believed. This is Santuzza in a nutshell. Her duet with Turridu (Giuseppe di Stefano in brilliant form) burns and soars so intensely, it will break your heart. With her even the old war-horses are so real and new that she spoils me for other recordings of these shockers. Another highlight is her outcry "O madre mia!" at Mamma Lucia in the end. I have never heard this sung with equal emotion and pathos.

Her Nedda on the other hand is a young woman desperately in love. Yearning to be free of her marriage to Canio she sings of freedom and she sounds so utterly charming, it's hard not to love her. Her Nedda isn't an innocent girl but an experienced young woman and her duets with Silvio and Tonio show this brilliantly. When her frustration at Canio turns to hatred in the scary final scene it's chilling and ravishing at the same time. Gobbi is her equal as Tonio, he set the bar very high and so far no other Tonio scared me like this. Di Stefano is a passionate Canio, sincere honest and passionate without sounding fussy or melodramatic. Tullio Serafin, this master among conductors, conducts brilliantly.

A bargain price, a brilliant recording, a clear winner.

5 out of 5 stars A real bargain .......2005-10-28

First of all these operas were not sang on stage by the La Divina during the height of her career. But as a young student she sang the role of Santuzza in Cavelleria rusticana. But sad as it may seem, this recording is a hallmark of acheivement.It would be almost impossible to realize the overall art and versitility of Callas without this recording. She is at home with versimo just like she is at home with Bel Canto. Listen to the track Inneggiamo, il Signor non è morto and you can feel the devotional heart of Santuzza praying to the almighty as if pleeding to change the heart of her unloyal husband. The role of Nedda in Pagliacci is exciting because it is vibrant and full of dynamism. Overall this recording is one of the best versions of Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci in the Market. Now I am happy that this masterpeice is available in a much cheaper price than the original black cover. You may get the libretto in the following link www.emiclassics.com/sungtexts/. So for those who have not purchased this said recording now is the time to buy this.

5 out of 5 stars OUTSTANDING IN EVERY WAY!.......2005-10-19

There makes little sense in elaborating on the performances of these two little verismo shockers. These performances have been around for a long time and are justly acclaimed. They have SO much to offer (except for stereophonic sound, which I can easily accept, since the monophonic sound is perfectly listenable): a passionate and venerated Italian conductor (Tullio Serafin) whose life-blood flows into these operas; Maria Callas, in spectacular vocal condition, taking on a pair of roles few others, living or historical, would ever attempt; Giuseppe di Stefano in his all-too-brief youthful prime;and finally, the great Tito Gobbi creating a Tonio in "Pagliacci" that can make your skin crawl. All of these elements combined together make up something rarely encountered in recorded opera ------- truth through music. This is not merely for Callas fans -------- it's for anyone who wants to hear "verismo" opera the way it was supposed to be. Besides, at this price, you can't go wrong.
Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (complete opera) EMI's Great Recordings of the Century with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Tullio Serafin
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • An Achievement for Donizetti and Callas!
  • Lucia di Lammermoor - One of Callas' finest hours
 Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (complete opera) EMI's Great Recordings of the Century with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Tullio Serafin

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Bellini: Norma (complete opera) EMI's Great Recordings of the Century with Maria Callas, Tullio Serafin, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  2. Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan
  3. Verdi: Il Trovatore (complete opera) EMI Great Recordings of the Century with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Herbert von Karajan, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan
  4. Verdi - Falstaff / Gobbi · Schwarzkopf · Moffo · Karajan
  5. Wagner: Lohengrin

ASIN: B0001O3YB2
Release Date: 2004-04-06

Tracks:

  1. Preludio
  2. Percorrete Le Spiagge Vicine
  3. Tu Sei Turbato!...E N'ho Ben Donde
  4. Cruda, Funesta Smania
  5. Il Tuo Dubbio E Omai Certezza
  6. La Pietade In Suo Favore
  7. Maestoso
  8. Ancor Non Giunse?
  9. Regnava Nel Silenzio
  10. Quando Rapito In Estasi
  11. Egil S'avanza
  12. Sulla Tomba Che Rinserra
  13. Qui Di Sposa Eterna Fede
  14. Ah, Talor Del Tuo Pensiero
  15. Verranno A Te Sull'aure

Tracks:

  1. Moderato.../Lucia Fra Poco A Te Verra
  2. Appressati, Lucia
  3. Il Pallor Funesto, Orrendo...A Ragion Mi Fe' Spietato
  4. Nobil Sposo...Cessa, Cessa!
  5. Soffriva Nel Pianto
  6. Che Fia?...Suonar Di Giubilo
  7. Se Tradirmi Tu Potrai
  8. Per Te D'immenso Giubilo...Per Poco Or La Vedrem
  9. Dov'e Lucia?...Qui Giungere Or La Vedrem
  10. Ecco Il Tuo Sposo
  11. Chi Mi Frena In Tal Momento
  12. T'allontana, Sciagurato...Rispettate In Me Di Dio
  13. Sconsigliato! In Queste Porte Chi Ti Guida?
  14. Esci, Fuggi, Il Che M'accende
  15. D'immenso Giubilo
  16. Ah!...Deh, Cessate Quel Contento!...Dalle Stanze Ove Lucia
  17. Oh! Qual Funesto Avvenimento!
  18. Oh Giusto Cielo!...Il Dolce Suono
  19. Ohime! Sorge Il Tremendo
  20. Ardon Gli Incensi; Splendon Le Sacre Faci
  21. Spargi D'amaro Pianto
  22. Maestoso.../Tombe Degli Avi Miei
  23. Fra Poco A Me Ricovero
  24. Oh, Meschina! Oh, Fato Orrendo!
  25. Dove Corri, Sventurato?
  26. Tu Che A Dio Spiegasti L'ali
  27. Che Facesti?

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars An Achievement for Donizetti and Callas!.......2005-01-09

From the conductors to the principal singers to the chorus, this recording of Lucia is without a doubt the must-have of all Lucias both for the reason of musicality, good taste, good music, and great singers. Donizetti himself could never have seen a better cast arranged for his tragic opera! To have an enormous voice (and please understand that this enormous voice is capable of handling coloratura passages just like any light coloratura could) sing Lucia is a phenomenon, and to have the likes of a great tragic artist such as Maria Callas singing a part which has been the playground of most coloratura lights is simply mind-blowing! Her keen sense of drama is evident in this Lucia, as she performs the madscene with a certain kind of drama never seen in any performance of Lucia before and after her career. Not even the fabled Dame Joan performances could match up with the beauty and the drama of this Lucia di Lammermoor. Lacking a good sense of drama and tragedy, Dame Joan only comes close the the accuracy of the score with her embellishments. Callas had so much more to offer to the role. The madness, the tragedy, all of it is so heartfelt in her singing. Of course, Lucia isn't simply a soprano's opera. Let us not forget the tenor who plays the part of Edgardo, who, if it were not for the high demand of a great many jealous sopranos in the past, would have shone as the star in this opera. Giuseppe di Stefano, a tenor with a great voice with an equally great dramatic capability, brought the part a human side which could not be heart from Pavarotti's belching. And Tito Gobbi, who else could have matched such a great baritone? No one!!! He was the ultimatum of the dramatic villain. Of course, we must not forget the efforts of the great Tullio Serafin, the most talented of all the known bel canto conductors during the age of recording technology. I recomment this recording to anyone who wants to hear a TRUE Lucia sung with a passion.

5 out of 5 stars Lucia di Lammermoor - One of Callas' finest hours.......2004-05-17

Lucia di Lammermoor is a complex role that has been portrayed by a varity of voice-types. Canaries like Pons, Carosio, Dessay, Jo and others, dramatic sopranos d'agilita like Callas and young Sutherland and today L'ubica Vargicova, lyric coloraturas like Sills, Scotto and Kohutkova and even spintos like Caballe and Rost who sang it come scritto, lower and without the ornamentations later added. All of these have their merits, it is my opinion though that a dramatic soprano d'agilita can do it justice incredibly. I find the role to be too demanding for canaries because it demands a rich middle and dark colours also. Passionate lyric coloraturas like Sills sound fabulous as Lucia as well because of their feminity, innocence and sweetness. Maria Callas, who was singing Tosca, Gioconda, Lady Macbeth and Norma at the time added Lucia to her repertoire in 1952, singing it in Mexico City after having sung a part of the madscene in a concert ealier. (A recording exists) The enthralled audience adored her so much and wouldn't stop hailing their divine one until the entire madscene had to be repeated, a feat no other Lucia achieved before or after. What kind of a Lucia is Callas? Well, a very unique one as one might expect of La Divina. Listening to "Regnava nel silenzio" you'll hear not only maiden-like beauty but an alarming, fearful colour of angst and beginning madness. It's only hinted, not overdone. But knowing Lucia's fate it's very moving. The coloratura in the cabaletta "Quanto rapito in estasi" presents us with another voice. Where Callas had sounded dark, melancholic and deep in the aria here she was glowing, shining and glittering but never chirping. Her top-registers was as steady as her rich middle then and the high note ending the cabaletta is lush, steady and beautiful. In the love-duet with honey-voiced di Stefano as Edgardo the angst returns, mixed with her pure and passionate love for Edgardo. The unisono of these two stunning voices has not been equalled since, it was a legendary partnership. In the duet with her brother Enrico Lucia's voice has grown darker, more afraid and closer to the madness soon to follow, climaxed in the tormented outcry "La tomba, la tomba m'aspetta!" (The tomb, the tomb is awaiting me!). The stretta of the duet, Enrico's harshness and Lucia's breakdown as she begs God to let her die culminates in a fabulous note in alto.
The wedding-scene has a feel of doom I haven't heard again before or after. Callas' voice is almost white with pain and fear and when Edgardo comes she breaks down, knowing now that her brother has betrayed her. Being spurned by a grief-stricken Edgardo we hear (!) Lucia breaking into a million pieces --> Going mad. The madscene itself, with the glorious "play" (Who calls it that?) with the flute is so hauntingly beautiful and touching. Mistaking the flute for her lover's voice Lucia, who has just murdered her husband, deliriously sings of the joy awaiting her and Edgardo. One cannot help but weep for her, this pure, loving soul that was crushed by ambition and hatred of others. The fireworks, high notes, cadenzas and coloratura of the cabaletta climaxes in a huge, glorious E-flat. A fabulous recording of bel canto, not only beautiful or pretty but haunting and moving.
Di Stefano sings a passionate, ultimate Edgardo and Panerei sounds idiomatic, dramatic and properly enraged as Enrico. Serafin shows all other maestri how bel canto MUST BE conducted. True there are some cuts but nothing that I personally miss a lot. In short: It's the best studio-recording of Lucia ever.

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