Customer Reviews

Classic Recitals (Dig)

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As a fan of both Renata Scotto and Mirella Freni, this re-release of a most delightful album is most welcome. A truly heaven-made match, with the scene from Norma as a personal favourite!

This was one of the few recordings of its time that old Italian critic Rodolfo Celetti praised and I find his praise justified. Giving great singers who have matured (but not clapped out) suitable material that is new to them is often a wonderful idea with impressive results. Although I'd be honoured to see a singer's famous role even late in their career, new music that suits them leaves a more memorable mark I think. Maybe because of the comparison, maybe because of the new music, both Scotto and Freni sound very involved and interested in the scenes they're singing. Scotto was always an involved singer so the results are more impressive and obvious in the case of Freni.

A Mercandante revival started in the 70s and the excerpt here makes us wish for more. Bianca e Fernando was also staged around the time of this recording so the ladies get even more excited in their scene. In Nozze di Figaro Scotto is the Countess and Freni Susanna although I think I'd prefer it the opposite way. Scotto was singing Norma (receiving little acclaim) those years but the second act included here is the most congenial for her. Although not a seasoned bel canto soprano, Freni rises to the challenges excitingly, if not always precicely but again makes me wonder why they don't let more lyric sopranos sing Adalgisa.

All in all, a charming souvenir of the 70s. It's quite cheap so if you're bored one day, get it and listen to something different.