Paul A. Dunphy | Bogota, New Jersey USA | 09/16/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Here is Teresa Berganza at the outset of her career in one of her signature roles. It is easy to see why she became the Rossini mezzo of choice for the next twenty years. Her voice is light (much lighter than Giulietta Simionato - then the reigning Rossini mezzo) and flexible. The coloratura holds no terrors for her.
Her supporting cast is on her level as well. Sesto Bruscantini is delightful as Dandini and Mario Petri is a seasoned professional as Don Magnifico. Ornella Rovero and Miti Truccato Pace deserve special mention as the delightful stepsisters. Nicola Monti's nasal tone can be annoying and he has trouble with his top. Fortunately part of his scena in the second act is cut.
The sound is excellent for a live recording. There are numerous cuts in the score but it doesn't keep the performance from giving a great deal of pleasure."