2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
vibrant Pasquale, November 14, 2007
This review is from: Donizetti: Don Pasquale (Audio CD)
Well, since no one else has commented on this 2-cd set yet, I will... The set has a complete 1975 live-performance recording of Don Pasquale, with Giuseppe Taddei as Pasquale; Daniela Mazzucato as Norina; Vittorio Terranova as Ernesto; and Alberto Rinaldi as Malatesta - PLUS some bonus excerpts from a 1965 recording with Giorgio Tadeo as Pasquale; Renata Scotto as Norina; Alfredo Kraus as Ernesto; and Giuseppe Taddei as Malatesta. I don't think the cast listing under the "product description" makes that clear.
I'll get the bad news out of the way first. What I listened to of the "bonus" excerpts was of horrendous audio quality. It sounded to me like someone transferred them from some scratchy old 78's using sub-par equipment. Excruciating and disappointing. It's possible, I suppose, that not all the bonus tracks are as bad as the minute's worth I heard (unable to tolerate any more), but I wouldn't recommend buying this cd to hear Scotto, Kraus, et al.
HOWEVER... the main, 1975-performance recording is absolutely the most delightful Don Pasquale I have ever heard on cd. The whole cast sings and acts their roles to the hilt, as it were, and the characters and humor come through wonderfully. The audience, though very enthusiastic with their applause, is not at all obtrusive. Listening to everyone - cast and audience alike - having such a terrific time makes me wish that I had been there, or that this performance were available on dvd. The singing, balance with orchestra, and audio quality are all great, so I give the cd 5 stars, "bonus" tracks notwithstanding.
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