The young Verdi - Vol. 2Oberto - Dimitrova, Bergonzi - Gardelli 1983
2CDs - DDD - 68'36, 52'20
Orfeo 1984
Performer: Carlo Bergonzi, Ruza Baldani, Ghena Dimitrova, Alison Browner, Rolando Panerai
Conductor: Lamberto Gardelli
Orchestra/Ensemble: Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Bavarian Radio Chorus
Pairing the ever-elegant Carlo Bergonzi with the volcano of the 80s, Ghena Dimitrova is one of the wildest cast choices one could ever make (think of honey with pepper!). Funnily enough, I found the results most fascinating.
Both Bergonzi and Panerai are old-timers and past their vocal prime but they know the secrets of Verdian singing. The legendary tenor inevitably struggles with most high notes but he does more with one phrase than others do in an entire performance. Great singing does not need tricks to be affective but it does need technique and Mr. Bergonzi defines vocal technique. Panerai in the title bass role makes a noble Oberto but sounds vocally dry.
Benefiting from her stylish partners, Dimitrova gives us a calm Leonora despite her fiery voice. She sings well both in the lyrical and dramatic parts of the role. --Amazon customer
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