Search - Verdi, Rinaldi, Cortez :: Rigoletto

Don't miss it!!!!

J. Luis Juarez Echenique | Mexico City | 01/28/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This excellent recording was originally released by ACANTA in 1977, and most emphatically is a very important Rigoletto. First of all, Rolando Panerai in the title role is sensational, one of the finest Rigolettos on any set. His glorious voice still in his prime was one of the wonders of the age, and he really acts the role unlike many of his most famous colleagues. For him alone, this recording is a must have. But Franco Bonisolli is also stupendous as the Duque of Mantua. I know this tenor can switch from vulgarity to nobility with alarming ease, but here he is at his considerable best and in resplendent voice. Rinaldi is only an acceptable Gilda, but what a luxury it is to have the great Dresden Staatskapelle in the orchestra pit. The conductor knows very well what this opera is about, but please, don't miss the glorious singing of Rolando Panerai, who in my opinion joins Stracciari, Gobbi, Bruson, Zancanaro and Fischer-Dieskau as the finest recorded Rigolettos. Cappuccilli, Milnes and lots of others are nowhere near."

Franco Bonisolli, Rigoleto, Arena de Verona, Italy

Jose Ramirez-Pulido | Mexico, DF | 01/27/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Franco Bonisolli is one of the greatest tenors of the world in all times. His powerful voice, long & clear phrases, the domain of his register, as well as his handsome stage presence makes his role as Duke's Mantua in Rigoletto completely believable. For the above reasons I highly recommend this performance. If you are able to hear "Il Trovatore" also in the "Arena di Verona" (also available in Videotape) perhaps you will be able to enjoy one of the best alive performances."