This fabled Tosca that sees three of the artists in question in their absolute prime finally makes it to CD and it is a true historical treasure on all counts. Leontyne Price almost rivals Callas in her prime as Floria Tosca and her duet with Macneill (Scarpia) is probably on of the finest moments in the history of the Met. Corelli is also superb in his portrayal of Cavaradossi and the minor parts are also well taken.
As in other issues, the 1962 sound is a bit dull but the electrifying singing more than makes up for any technical glitches. This is one for the historical opera collection.
Copyright © 2011, Gerald Fenech