Search - Farrell, Corelli, Me :: Gioconda-Complete Opera-1962: W. Farrell, Corelli & Merrill - 1962

THE UNKNOWN CORELLI GEM

yigit yavuz gunsoy | monte-carlo Monaco | 09/11/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It is quite difficult to find this cd as the label is a minor one and the singers are not mentioned on the order form ,but what singers they are! First and foremost we have one of the greatest tenors of this century at his absolute best Franco Corelli. As always he sings in a very virile way, thrilling the audience with his stupendous voice. The famous aria "Cielo e mar" is a singing lesson in itself. The top notes are as big and as steady as all the recordings of those years.He is the absolute star of the cast. Then we have Robert Merrill, his characterisation of Barnaba has no rivals! The sinister way of uttering phrases, little disdaining laughs are just right for this evil part.His voice is in perfect shape, enabling him to sing all the optional high notes.Tozzi's voice may not have a very pleasing timbre but it is solid and in good command, he occasionally tends to over sing but it is not a great problem for this role.Eileen Farrell is a characterless Gioconda, the voice is big but out of focus.Nell Rankin sings with great persuasiveness but the voice needs more support at the bottom especially in the duet with the bass. Mignon Dunn is quite impressive in her little but important role.Fausto Cleva conducts with sensitivity but in the crowd scenes the orchestra and the chorous of MET somethimes have difficulty in staying togather.He also has some unusual and curious cuts.The recording quality is surprisingly good for1962! This recording is a must for the lovers of LA GIOCONDA. Buy it as it will not let you down!"