Bellini: NORMA; ANITA CERQUETTI;CORELLI;SANTINI; Roma Jan 4th, 1958
Classical/Opera | FLAC + CUE | 470 MB | RS
Adequate mono sound
Classical/Opera | FLAC + CUE | 470 MB | RS
Adequate mono sound
"Nobody can replace Callas" Rome oprea had decided and hired no understudy for it's new gala production of January 1958. But Callas came, fell ill and walked out after half an act only. Rome opera was in desperate need for a "diva ex machina" and found her in Anita Cerquetti, who having sung it in Naples on December 1957, was readily available. She came and scored un undisputed triumph. Here's the historic January 4th, 1958 broadcast, with Anita in top form. Yes, she was a wonderfull Norma, a big, luscius, even, agile, voice doing miracles with Bellini's excruciatingly difficult score. Had she been able to pursue her career, travel abroad more and record more extensively, the face of italian post-Callas opera scene would have probably been different indeed. Even thus, Anita's art and recordings have always had a special place in all enlightened opera lovers' hearts.
The sound is typical of a late 50ies italian broadcast, quite ok to sample this magnificent performance: Young Corelli is a virile, glorious Pollione and though Pirazzini is no real asset, her voice blends nicely with Cerquetti's in the duets. But this was a Cerquetti night, anyhow. Enjoy!
The sound is typical of a late 50ies italian broadcast, quite ok to sample this magnificent performance: Young Corelli is a virile, glorious Pollione and though Pirazzini is no real asset, her voice blends nicely with Cerquetti's in the duets. But this was a Cerquetti night, anyhow. Enjoy!
Backstage photo from this production
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