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ELISIR: Bergonzi & Di Stefano

 
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grndpadave

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Since: Jul 08, 2005
Posts: 143



(Msg. 1) Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 9:09 am
Post subject: ELISIR: Bergonzi & Di Stefano
Archived from groups: rec>music>opera (more info?)

Two recordings both from the Florence May Festival; both directed by
conductors (Gavazzeni and Molinari-Pradelli) who are brisk yet
considerate of their singers; both featuring excellent casts.

In comparative discussions it is easy to exaggerate the differences
between performances, but here I am struck by the similarities.

Carlo Bergonzi had all the qualities that make for a fabulous singer to
which he added a rare intelligence including a scrupulous regard for
precise rhythm.

His Nemorino is treasurable. And that he could sing such a role at a
time where he was tackling heavier dramatic roles is a tribute to his
technique.

When we regard Di Stefano, we have a phenomenon of pure vocal luxury
and a rare, unforced natural tenor voice. Top notes float without any
obvious heave behind them. The legato is limpid and the effect is
spontaneous.

I was a bit surprised in listening to the Gavazzeni recording that he
takes a slower pace and less incisive playing after the overture than
Molinari-Pradelli. The slower tempo also betrays a slight beat in
Giuseppe Taddei's Belcore. Renato Capecchi is totally at home as
Belcore, and more soldierly, to boot. Renata Scotto is a fine Adina
but Hilde Gueden exhibits an elusive charm that fully rationalizes
Nemotino's obsession.

As between Carlo Cava and Fernando Corena, I unhesitatingly prefer the
latter.

Both recordings are marvelous. But I would give the edge to Di Stefano
& Company.

==G/P Dave

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Terry Ellsworth

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Since: Jul 07, 2005
Posts: 175



(Msg. 2) Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 9:30 am
Post subject: Re: ELISIR: Bergonzi & Di Stefano [Login to view extended thread Info.]
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It's helpful when posting reviews of this nature to give people the
dates of the performances/recordings.

Terry Ellsworth

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donpaolo

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Since: Jul 19, 2005
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(Msg. 3) Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 10:07 am
Post subject: Re: ELISIR: Bergonzi & Di Stefano [Login to view extended thread Info.]
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There is a wonderful Met broadcast of Elisir w/Bergonzi, Peters, Guarrera,
Corena dated 3/5/66.

The Edinburgh w/DiStefano, Carteri, Fioravanti, Corena is dated 1957.

I do not know about the Scotto-Bergonzi video date.

DonPaolo
"Terry Ellsworth" wrote in message

> It's helpful when posting reviews of this nature to give people the
> dates of the performances/recordings.
>
> Terry Ellsworth
>
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grndpadave

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Since: Jul 08, 2005
Posts: 143



(Msg. 4) Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 10:24 am
Post subject: Re: ELISIR: Bergonzi & Di Stefano [Login to view extended thread Info.]
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2. Terry Ellsworth Aug 19, 11:30 am show options

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From: "Terry Ellsworth" - Find messages by this
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Date: 19 Aug 2005 09:30:35 -0700
Local: Fri, Aug 19 2005 11:30 am
Subject: Re: ELISIR: Bergonzi & Di Stefano
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It's helpful when posting reviews of this nature to give people the
dates of the performances/recordings.


Terry Ellsworth
~~~~~~
Your point is well taken.

The Bergonzi recording (manufactured under license from Fono
Enterprises) is on Opera d'Oro (OPD-1138) and simply says: "Recorded
Live: Firenze, 1967."

The Di Stefano recording was made in 1955 and released by London/Decca.

==G/P Dave
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Terry Ellsworth

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Since: Jul 07, 2005
Posts: 175



(Msg. 5) Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 1:43 pm
Post subject: Re: ELISIR: Bergonzi & Di Stefano [Login to view extended thread Info.]
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