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CD Review
Giuseppe Verdi
Ernani
- Luciano Pavarotti
- Joan Sutherland
- Leo Nucci
- Paata Burchuladze
Welsh National Opera Chorus
Orchestra of Welsh National Opera/Richard Bonynge
Decca Classic Opera 475700-8 2CDs 129m DDD
This classic recording of one of Verdi's earlier operas has been reissued in the great value Classic Opera series. The only snag in this otherwise excellent series is that although a full libretto is provided, there is no synopsis or some notes, a far cry from what used to be presented in the lavish LP librettos of the past.
However, gripes apart, there is much to enjoy here. Pavarotti and Sutherland are in fine voice throughout and rarely has 'Ernani' been sung with such passion or attention to detail as here, the only other obvious contender is Muti on EMI but that famous recording is full of stage noise. A set in the equally fine 'Opera in English' category is also commendable whilst Dynamic has a new issue with Italian forces that I have yet to hear.
The recording is excellent with a true opera pit feeling about proceedings whilst the other roles are extremely well sung by Leo Nucci and Paata Burchuladze. Original cover design has been retained and for those on a budget, this is another chance to snap up quality at a fraction of the price usually paid for such classic recordings.
Copyright © 2006, Gerald Fenech
