I Lombardi

A performance of I Lombardi from 1980's at Carnegie Hall under Eve Queler. The three stars are Aprile Millo, Carlo Bergonzi, and Paul Plishka. (74 min.)

Direct download: Lombardi_Millo.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:23pm EDT

 The 66 year old Edita Gruberova is one if the most exciting, if a big eccentric in vocal production, artists in the universe. I love especially the way she usually "swoooops' up to the top;not here, but she is so involved and people travel all over the globe to see her!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 11:43am EDT

  As a language teacher,I always had aspirations of learning and performing this. Ruggero Raimondi is absolutely BREATHTAKING in this Viaggio a Rheims aria!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 11:28am EDT

How to sing Verdi!!

This brilliantly exciting Rigoletto from Buenos Aires 1961 under Argeo Quadri features Leyla Gencer, Cornell MacNeil, and Gianni Raimondi. I think it is THRILLING!  (73 min.)

Direct download: Rigoletto_Gencer.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:05pm EDT

A Tosca for the Ages!!

This podcast is designed to instruct any singers who wish to sing Tosca exactly what the correct approach to this most difficult role. I sincerely hope that Mme.Petrova will serve as an important model for future generations, especially if they are deaf.

Direct download: Tosca_Petrova.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00pm EDT

I present another selection by the "new discovery" (for me),Turkish tenor, Bulent Bezduz. After Leyla, I never thought I would find another wonderful singer from his land.  Bravo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 10:44pm EDT

 "Una furtiva lagrima"' featuring the beautiful Turkish tenor voice of Bulent Bezduz. Like the ending?????????????????

Category:general -- posted at: 10:38pm EDT

 One of my new "Met Opera buddies" is the fine  Czech basso,Stefan Kocan, acclaimed last season for the Sparafucile in the new Rigoletto. I am happy to bring him some cd's of famous bassos,etc. so I can have some room in my house! Here is the great scene from Don Carlo with Rene Pape.

It is gratifying to me when a present-day artist takes interest in the treasures of the past, and I am happy to be of help in this regard. Tomorrow (Dec.2) I see Stefan as Gremin in Eugene Onegin, and I know it will be a fine performance.

Category:general -- posted at: 10:21pm EDT

La Fille du Reggiment with Beverly Sills

A superb 1969 concert performance of La Fille du Reggiment from Carnegie Hall under Roland Gagnon with Beverly Sills,Grayson Hirst,Fernando Corena, and Muriel Greenspon  (73 min.)

Direct download: Fille_Sills.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:55pm EDT

Supposedly Beverly Sills once said she would rather have five years like Callas instead of 25 years of her...Callas 1949-1955 could never be bettered!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 7:51pm EDT

  Dec.2 (1923) is the birthday of Maria Callas. What more can anyone say???????????

Category:general -- posted at: 7:48pm EDT

Compilation No.2

 This is the second compilation from early files. You might use them for an opera party, in which you give out cheap gifts to the winner(s). ENJOY!  (app.70 min.)

1. Grace Bumbry          Turandot:  "In questa reggia"

2. Fiorenza Cossotto   Trovatore:  "Condotta"  (Sounded "miked' in the theatre. An amazing singer.)

3. Nadezda Kniplova    Walkure:    "Hojotoho"

4. Cornell MacNeil/Renata Scotto   Rigoletto: "Si vendetta"  (WOW!!)

5. Lina Bruna Rasa      Andrea Chenier : " La mamma morta." (An example of over-done chest voice. She supposedly dived into the orchestra pit!!!)

6. Aprile Millo                Ernani:  "Ernani involami."

7.  Maxim Mironov      L'Italiana in Algeri:  Fabulous rendition of Lindoro's Aria.

8.  Elena Nikolaidi        Semiramide:       "Bel raggio"

9. Birgit Nilsson/Richard Tucker    Ballo in Maschera:  Love duet

10. Eugenia Burzio      Saffo aria  (less-known wonderful soprano.)

11. Piotr Beczala          Land of Smiles:  "Dein ist mein ganzes herz."  (His new album of operetta  arias just received a big prize, and deservedly so.)

12. Giuseppe Di Stefano   Faust:  The legendary "Salut demeure" with the phenomenal high C dimuendo.

Direct download: Compilation_Two.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:33pm EDT

The ONLY live video footage of Zinka!!!!!!!!  Can you understand why I went nuts...88 times......

Category:general -- posted at: 11:05am EDT

SO..you vant to know vy Charlie Handelman vent NUTS at every Chenier? Leesen to the reprise of the "Ora soave" ven I do a double attack in ppp and seeng "O-Ora soave." Also leesen to my friend Bergonzi ven he starts his own "Or soave" in pianissimo. Thanks to God it vas not Meester Baum!!!!


Category:general -- posted at: 2:23am EDT

  It may be distant, but Nelly Miricioiu shows us what an exciting Norma is!!!!! I am just discovering her...well,there is so much material. She is wonderful and has an enormous repertory. Check her out!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 9:55pm EDT

  After the fabulous Mexico Aida in 1972, my dear maestro Armen Boyajian accompanies Marisa Galvany in the Vespri aria!!!!  High EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 7:16pm EDT

WHY I think Virginia Zeani is the greatest!!!!! She is also for me the only link to singers of the past, and she still has E flats (on the phone).She is "family."

Category:general -- posted at: 8:03pm EDT

The Solti Ring

The first complete commercial Ring of the Nibelung was presented over several years. Georg Solti conducted a cast of absolutely phenomenal singers, and I thought those of you not acquainted with the set, or with Wagner's masterpiece in general, might enjoy some samples. The artists include:

Birgit Nilsson,Regine Crespin,Christa Ludwig, Gottlob Frick, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau (Gunther),George London, Hans Hotter and Eberhard Waechter (Donner.).

NOTE: When you arrive at the Donner hammer blow near the end of the Rheingold, be sure to warn your family and neighbors that no one killed anyone.

Direct download: Solti_Ring.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:52pm EDT

  Too exciting for the Met..CHEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  She is wonderful!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 1:35pm EDT

The guy is GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   Turkish tenor with a superb voice. Look at Youtube for many selections. Jose Cura, thankfully, only conducts.

Category:general -- posted at: 1:30pm EDT

La Juive with Richard Tucker

From 1973 under Anton Guadagno, the great tenor Richard Tucker sings Eleazar in Halevy's "La Juive." The cast includes Yasuko Hayashi, David Gwynne, Michelle le Bris, and Juan Sabate.  (73 min.).

  Please note that I had,in error, published this podcast as a wave file, and have corrected it to the proper mp3 file.

Direct download: Juive_Tucker.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:52pm EDT

Compilation No.1

  As I indicated in the narration, I have an incredible number of files from all the podcasts I have done, and I have decided, on occasion, to put together some of the selections for your listening enjoyment. The singers in this compilation,in order are:

Giuseppe Anselmi, Janet Baker, Daniele Barioni, Maria Callas, Franco Corelli, Mario Del Monaco, Barbro Ericson,Ellen Faull,Marisa Galvany, Nicolai Gedda, Renata Tebaldi and Rosalind Elias, Hans Hotter, Alexander Kipnis, Dorothy Kirsten, and Lotte Lehmann.  I hope you enjoy this new feature.   (73 min.

Direct download: Compilation-1.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:19pm EDT

Paris Fonotipia Records 1904-5

 A compilation of some rare selections from volume 21 of the superb David Wayne Collection, featuring French artists of the period 1904-5. I announce the selections, but here are the artists:

Jean-Francois Delmas, Ernest van Dyck, Leon David, Victor Capoul, Marie de Reszke, and Pedro Gailhard.     (40 min.)

Direct download: Paris_Fonotipia.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:46pm EDT

Pique Dame from Munich, 1984

From Munich in 1984 Algis Shuraitis conducts Pique Dame with the following cast:

Vladimir Atlantov-Herman

Julia Varady-Lisa

Elena Obratsova-Countess

Bodo Brinkman-Yeletsky

Alexander Woroschilo-Tomsky

       (73 min.)

Direct download: Pique_Dame_Varady.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:42pm EDT

Montserrat Caballe Recital from 1978

 A recital by Mme.Caballe from Carnegie Hall on Mar.19, 1978 acc.by Miguel Zanetti. The selections (announced) include arias by Handel,Vivaldi, and Donizetti with songs by De Falla, Granados, Vives, Chapi, and Nieto/Jimenez plus 7 encores.  (73 min.)

Direct download: Caballe_1978.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:51pm EDT

Die Frau Ohne Schatten from Munich

  Rudolf Kempe conducts highlights from one of my favorite works, "Die Frau Ohne Schatten." The cast features Leonie Rysanek as the Empress, Hans Hopf as the Emperor, Josef Metternich as Barak, Marianne Schech as the Dyer's Wife, Lilian Benningsen as the Amme, and Kurt Boehme as the Spirit Messenger   (73 min.)

Direct download: Frau_1954_Kempe.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:50pm EDT

The Great Emmy Destinn

 One of the most treasured sopranos in opera history. Czech soprano Emmy Destinn (1878-1930), recorded over 200 arias and songs and I present some to you for your enjoyment.  I have announced the selections. (approx.73 min.)

 

Direct download: Destinn.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:52pm EDT

CASA SANZOGNO

  This is my first miscellaneous podcast, so there may be a repeat of one selection;I also am not sure if the narration came out, so I will give you the information here. Edoardo Sanzogno was a publisher who was instrumental in getting many operas brought before the public, especially verismo works.Here are scenes from some of them:

Cavalleria: Serenata (Caruso);Voi lo sapete (Bruna Rasa)

Pagliacci: Nedda/Tonio sc. (Pampanini and Galeffi); No,Pagliaccio non son (Caruso)

Boheme (Leoncavallo): Mimi Pinson (Storchio)

Zaza:  Buona Zaza  (Sammarco)

Andrea Chenier:  Improvisso (Pertile); Nemico della patria (Ruffo);La mamma morta (Cigna)

Fedora: O grandi occhi (Della Rizza);Amor ti Vieta (Gigli-to die for!!!!)

Siberia (Giordano): Qual vergogna (Caniglia)

Marcella (Giordano): Dolce notte misteriosa (Schipa)

L'Arlesiana: Lamento di Federico  (Tagliavini)

Adriana: Io son l'umile ancella (Olivero-who will be 105 in March.);Acerbe Volutta (Elmo);Poveri fiori (Muzio)

Sly (Wolf-Ferrari): Un orso in musoliera (Piccaluga)    (approx.65 min.)

Direct download: Sanzogno.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:54pm EDT

 I saw Erin Morley the other night as Sophie in Rosenkavalier at the Met. She was radiant, but here she shows off high G!!!!!!!!!  If only one of these girls could sing Gioconda!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 12:07pm EDT

I have a lot to be thankful for

  Whether or not you celebrate Thanksgiving, it is still a time for me to give MY personal thanks to all of you for your continued support and interest and patience when there is a glitch. My life has been enriched so much by being able to spread the word to you about what opera means to me and to all of you, and to present great treasures of the past.  I wish you all my best!!  Charlie

Category:general -- posted at: 11:35am EDT

Dear Elizabeth Carron

   My dear friend, Elizabeth Carron sings scenes from a New York City Opera Suor Angelica and a Mme.Butterfly.(1973). She is a sweet lady with a personality as beautiful as her voice.  (30 min.)

  This is a new system, so I did not get the audio intro.but I will fix this in the future. Glad to be back!!!!!!!!

Direct download: Carron_Suor-Butt.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:22pm EDT

I am really so tired of being Galvany's unpaid agent...but i guess it is worth it,knowing how people adore her most remarkable singing. I think this is a sensational example of vocal technique.

  I think Zinka said, "The girl vill not last!!!!!!!"

Category:general -- posted at: 2:36pm EDT

NOTE: Use of chest voice (the word"muoja") and some "authoritative"attacks on certain phrases. This is a special artist for me, and I am so happy to have heard heard. We wish her the best!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 2:15pm EDT

After the great Gilda of Mme.Lungu, I went to Youtube and was ASTOUNDED that this "little Gilda' was able to became a totally different soprano,according to this music...great low notes, much dramatic thrust..How many singers can adapt this way to various vocal challenges????

  She was also as lovable backstage as anyone can be!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 2:03pm EDT

 How thrilling to discover a new voice. Irina Lungu's Gilda was so gorgeous, and as a person she is as radiant as her voice...I hope she does more and more here because we NEED her brand of soprano....LOVE HER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 1:58pm EDT

From 1969..I never knew about this....I thought i knew of every BREATH she took...Imagine the chest voice and then the e flat.......

Category:general -- posted at: 10:35pm EDT

 Guardian of the fountain in last night's FRAU...He is a Met audition winner..He hit one top note that made me feel he would major talent!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 10:12pm EDT

IL GLITCHO!!!

  Hi all,

     Still have a few glitches, although not quite as bad as our Healthcare computer site, but i will send you some nice videos to keep you busy until I resolve this. I do not want to lose my fan club!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 8:05am EDT

Diana Soviero in Opera News


       It was the greatest delight for me this evening to open up Opera News and read this article about Diana Soviero, who has been a friend since 1977, when I was astounded at her Mimi, and felt she was a rare throwback to the days of Albanese,Tebaldi,De Los Angeles,etc. When I asked her something like, "Who are you?" and mentioned that I had not heard a soprano who combined the finest elements of both Stimme and Kunst divas, and who made me think of Tebaldi, she told me how Tebaldi has kissed her when she was a young lady. THAT FIGURED!!
       All you need to do is go to Youtube and watch her final scene from Suor Angelica and you will best understand, as it mentions in the article, that she falls into the Zeani,Scotto, Olivero, Freni mold. I know people who have told me that a regular sized hanky is not enough for them, and they needed more of a large towel to catch the tears!
           I have always believed that it is a rare trait of Diana to be able to sing so beautifully, with lush tone, great range, and CHEST VOICE (which practically no one uses today) and at the same time emote with the kind of depth that more often a "flawed" diva possesses, but she also sings so flawlessly, and does not have to "compensate' in any way.
          In the article she speaks of singing sick, and that reminds me of the "Bronchial Violetta" at City opera, where I did not know she was ill, and we were literally banging on the proscenium to witness a Violetta for the ages.
            Another very special element in Diana's art is the way she uses even one WORD to express a certain emotion, as for example the "Lui" in act one Tosca in the phrase, "Ed io veniva a LUI tutto dogliosa." It is an example of how she uses a single word to bring out the depth of emotion. (cf.Magda Olivero's career.)
         I am so happy for her, and for all of her many students who will be able to learn so much of what she has to offer, but as you well know, I am still waiting for another such diva, but perhaps she can produce some as a result of her amazing ability to convey emotion,while improving vocal technique.
          So tell us,O Charlie, what you think of her?       Best always, Charlie      
 

Category:general -- posted at: 1:31am EDT

What opera should be (and mostly AIN'T these days), when the PRODUCTION counts more than the artists!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 3:56pm EDT

This Rysanek Met farewell in Pique Dame will illustrate the adoration we all felt for her, born Nov.14, 1926. She knew of her prognosis at the time of her farewell, a courageous woman. Yes, she had vocal flaws, and went through a bad period in the early 1960's, but NO ONE was more committed to the stage in our experience, and she "owned" roles like the Frau Empress and Senta in the Flying Dutchman. She will remain forever in our hearts.

Category:general -- posted at: 3:36pm EDT

 We first heard Latonia in the beautiful aria from Puccini's "Edgar" and she brought the Carnegie Hall house down with that fabulous voice. However, our beloved Met head, Mr.Gelb, gives her nothing.  Note the last notes (Like Tebaldi!!!)

  She is also a "fun" person...see Facebook!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 8:19pm EDT

This weeks marks a year that dear Marisa lost her dear husband, but she is starting to do some small recitals and Master Classes in Raleigh,N.Carolina. I hope she does well...she has so much to give, and we know that when we lose a loved one,we must be strong and go on.

Category:general -- posted at: 7:44pm EDT

Anyone who knows the work of dear Joyce di Donato will tell you that she has been one of the greatest singers and most darling people you might know.

   I still think of the first time I met her and told her my name and she said,"OH..you are famous on the internet" and I said "I think maybe more INFAMOUS!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 1:21am EDT

 Born Nov.9, 1929.The great man sings high B flats. A legendary singer!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 8:48pm EDT

Born Nov.9, 1885, Pertile was the very first tenor I ever heard, when at age 14, I lugged the 78 r.p.m. set (remember 78's???) of Aida to my home. The man was one of the greats. Zeani told me she worked with him and adored him.....

Category:general -- posted at: 8:45pm EDT

Born Nov. 8, 1921..Here is the great Jerome Hines in his last perf.at 80...He was a STALWART FORCE in opera!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 5:11pm EDT

IL GLITCHO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  Sorry!!! Some computer problems (again) and will solve them and be back soon..Meanwhile,enjoy the videos!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 4:07pm EDT

Her debut season was not very good. I was there...but you do find the greatness in the woman.She returned in 1958 and was much better...but the great years were 1949-1955. Still, this is a great document.

Category:general -- posted at: 7:18pm EDT

Great man..Jon Vickers, born Oct. 29, 1926...You told them that "Tristan" is not "DRISTAN"  (a cough formula.)

Category:general -- posted at: 1:24pm EDT

LOVE the ascending decoration at the end of the duet, but Frizza does not allow Meade and Barton to hold the B flat...but glorious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 10:51pm EDT

MY NEW LOVE !!  As Adalgisa in Norma last night, she showed that she will be a great star in the near future..Magnificent,rich voice with brilliant tops (easy C's) and lush lows. This is someone who will shortly "take over' the mezzo fach in the opera world!!!!  (and a sweet person)

Category:general -- posted at: 4:31pm EDT

I understand you are tired of my Marisa Galvany posts,.....SO WHAT!!!!!!!! Let's face it..This is an example of sensational singing..fearless...and the chest NEVER hurt her voice......but today this would be called "vulgar." She  says she still can get up to a D!!! She is currently giving some master classes in Raleigh,North Carolina. Maybe she can show the kiddies that chest does not hurt the voice if you know how to sing!!

 

Category:general -- posted at: 11:34am EDT

  All of us here in New York, and I am sure throughout the entire operatic world, feel that Joyce di Donato is one of the most extraordinary artists in our memory, an artist who would be considered magnificent in ANY opera era. It is not simply "una voce" (poco fa) but a special talent, a personality, a loving lady who can thrill us by virtue of her sincerity in all she accomplishes. I hope you enjoy this clip.

By the way,slight delay in podcasts, as i found a slight glitch. PIACENZA!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 9:03pm EDT

   We hear so much about Simionato, Cossotto, etc.BUT I place Verrett up there with the all-time greatest..maybe for me THE GREATEST!!!! That B natural at the beginning was as loud as any Nilsson note. It was a gorgeous,lush voice with phenomenal top and remarkable chest voice. Adored her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 7:17pm EDT

Dmitri knew him.What a fabulous voice..Born Oct.24, 1911. Lisitsian did one Met Amonasro...that is all..sad...

Category:general -- posted at: 12:07am EDT

GREAT MAN!!! Oct. 23, 1913. Not known for high notes but one of the most sensational artists EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 10:21pm EDT

VERY FUNNY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   Bless her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 1:49am EDT

Walkure act one 1953

Walkure act one from 1953 with the young Birgit Nilsson and Set Svanholm. The conductor is Hans Schmidt Isserstadt  from Hamburg Radio.  (65 min.)

Direct download: Walkure_act_1_1953.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:53am EDT

  One of the great JOYS of my life is to have Virginia Zeani as a friend and honorary "sorella." She turns 88 on October 21, and is still active in her teaching career, and even can still hit E flats on the phone! NO ONE sings like this these days, and I know you will greatly appreciate her career and her contribution to the vocal art.

Category:general -- posted at: 9:35am EDT

  Dear tenor Henry Price celebrated his birthday on October 18. I wrote him that if he could survive that insane woman in the audience in1977 giving out such a scream, he could survive anything!!!

  We never found out what that was all about, but perhaps it was a rival soprano, as Ashley Putnam made her debut that evening.

   

Category:general -- posted at: 2:17am EDT

AMORE!!!

The superb tenor, Joseph Calleja, sings two selections from his newest album, "Amore." I know you will enjoy the selections which are "You raise me up" and "Musica Proibita."

Direct download: Calleja_amore.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:47pm EDT

I loved the late Enrico di Giuseppe,born Oct.14,1938. He was so under-appreciated in my opinion. I once complimented him on his :high E flat" in Coq d'Or and he replied, "E NATURAL!" This finale of act one of the Saint of Bleeker Street with the wonderful Catherine Malfitano is superb!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 4:00pm EDT

   Who can forget this man??????????????

Category:general -- posted at: 12:04pm EDT

  Born October 12, 1935, the great Pavarotti brought so many people to opera. Yes, he became something of a "caricature' over the years, but who can deny his incredible contribution to opera..and that FABULOUS voice!

Category:general -- posted at: 11:43am EDT

Galliano Masini part 2

  Part Two of my tribute to one of my favorite tenors, Galliano Masini.(all selections announced.)

Direct download: Masini_Pt.2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:33am EDT

Galliano Masini  Part One

Part one (I had to break this up) of a tribute to Galliano Masini, 1896-1986. A wonderful tenor!!!!!

Direct download: Masini_pt.one.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:28am EDT

  Would Verdi think Galvany should calm down???????????????

Category:general -- posted at: 3:41pm EDT

 I do not care where you are tomorrow. You VILL sing this, in key, and never mind Muti senza acuti..I do not care if you are in the shower, at work, in the car,In bed alone or with three people...you MUST honor the great Verdi on his 200th birthday. Look, I have heard many tenors who are worse than you!!!

 All'aaaaaaarmiiiiiiiiiiii!     Charlie

Category:general -- posted at: 12:17am EDT

Stephanie Blythe's New Pop Album

Not many opera stars can do "crossover," but the great Stephanie Blythe's new album entitled, "As Long as there are songs" shows us how a great opera star can sing pop music so beautifully, I include "Bei Mir Bist Du Schon" and "The Man that got away" and I know you will enjoy Mme.Blythe's remarkable endeavor.

Direct download: blythe_pop.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:47pm EDT

Happy Birthday to Leyla Gencer

The marvelous Turkish soprano, Leyla Gencer, was born on October 10, 1928. She was born on the same day as we celebrate the 200th birthday of Giuseppe Verdi. She sang 12 Verdi roles, so it is a convenient coincidence.

She sings arias from Werther, Le Nozze di Figaro, Idomeneo, La Wally, Assassino nel Catedrale (Pizzetti), Monte Ivnor (Rocca), Il Trovatore, Forza del Destino, La Traviata, Aida, and IDue Foscari.  (68 minutes)

Direct download: Gencer_2013_Birthday.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:27pm EDT

Oct.10, 1813 (Giuseppe Verdi) and Oct.10, 1928 (Leyla Gencer).How incredibly fitting for the great Leyla,who sang 12 Verdi roles, to be born on Verdi's birthday!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 4:22pm EDT

First time the great Jonas Kaufmann sang this role!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 3:23pm EDT

Chereau, who just passed away, was criticized for his "controversial" Ring. It was great....and I cry my eyes out every time at the way Jones and McIntyre embrace with that divine music!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 11:01pm EDT

Nabucco with Maria Callas

A blazing performance of Nabucco from Naples, 1949 under Vittorio Gui. The cast includes Maria Callas,in her vocal prime, Gino Bechi, Gino Sinimberghi (Ismaele),Luciano Neroni (Zaccaria), and Amalia Pini (Fenena)   72 minutes)

Direct download: Nabucco_Callas.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:48pm EDT

Imagine that you are a member of the Italian audience at the premiere of Verdi's Nabucco, and you are witness to history! The audience made them encore the chorus and it was the beginning of a fabulous career as an incredible genius, whose 200th birthday we celebrate on Oct,10.,

Category:general -- posted at: 11:17pm EDT

Verdi Discoveries

Celebrating the 200th year of Verdi's birth.(Oct.10, 1813), Riccardo Chailly leads the Orchestra Sinfonica of Milan in a series of rarely-heard Verdi orchestral music, including opera preludes later discarded.  VIVA IL MAESTRO!!!  (63 min.)

Direct download: Verdi_Discoveries.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:58pm EDT

It is "Goofy time."

Here is a "goofy"(pictured) podcast of all sorts of strange happenings (announced) that I think might be enjoyable for opera parties. Over the years,we have collected so many of these 'oddities," and I wish to share them with you.

Direct download: Shall_I_go_on-vol.8.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:44am EDT

Maria Stuarda with Leyla Gencer

Mamma mia!!!! This is a blazing performance of Donizetti's "Maria Stuarda" from Florence 1967 under Francesco Molinari-Pradelli. The cast includes Leyla Gencer, Shirley Verret, Franco Tagliavini,Agostini Ferrin (Giorgio), Giulio Fioravanti (Cecil), and Mafalda Masini (Anna.)   (69 min.)

Direct download: Stuarda_Gencer.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:48pm EDT

Poliuto from La Scala, 1960

 A seldom-heard but truly superb work, Donizetti's "Poliuto," from opening night La Scala, December 7, 1960 under Antonino Votto. The cast features Franco Corelli, Maria Callas, Ettore Bastianini, and Nicola Zaccaria.  (69 min.)

Direct download: Poliuto_Callas.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:52pm EDT

Iris with Magda Olivero

The amazing Magda Olivero (now 104 yrs.young) in a great role in Iris of Mascagni from Amsterdam 1963 under Fulvio Vernizzi. Others in the cast are Luigi Ottolini,Renato Capecchi, and Plinio Clabassi. (71 min.)

Direct download: Iris_Olivero.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:38pm EDT

Luciano Pavarotti 1973 Recital

 Songs and arias (announced) by Luciano Pavarotti in a 1973 New York recital. We may sometimes forget that he was one of the greatest tenors in opera history.  (66 min.)

Direct download: Pavarotti_1973_rec.2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:53am EDT

  Met opera's newest star..Yuri Cundari Cundari. I have been going to the opera for many years but I NEVER heard anything like this. Check out his Vesti la giubba and Elektra scene. He will sing the role of Il PUZZZZO del giardino this season.

Category:general -- posted at: 2:39am EDT

Tribute to Martha Moedl (1910-2001)

  My beloved tribute to Martha Moedl, one of the greatest artists in opera history. All selections are announced (73 min.)

Direct download: Moedl_Tribute-2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:38pm EDT

Happy to Be Back!

Glad we ironed out problems and will be doing more podcasts for you, when I am not at the Met. ( I am amazed I have 35 Met tickets this season...maybe I am not as jaded as i thought, but the repertory is better, and i do have some singers I love so much  (Piotr and Netrebko in Onegin Tuesday,Oct. 2)

Category:general -- posted at: 3:00pm EDT

  The Met never recognizes the great young talent that is available in world-wide bathrooms....I feel they are so ignorant of what is there.....We need to help them to understand that such talent cannot be ignored.

  NON MANGIARE before you watch this..and get rid of little kids and small animals!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 11:33am EDT

Mefistofele Scenes with Zeani and Olivero

  I present the Garden Scene and the Prison Scene from Boito's Mefistofele, featuring two of the greatest verismo sopranos, Magda Olivero and Virginia Zeani.

The Olivero performance is from Macerata, 1972, and features Cesare Siepi and Giorgio Merighi.

The Zeani performances is from Trieste, 1970, and features Nicola Rossi-Lemeni (Virginia's husband) and Umberto Grilli.     (61 min.)

Direct download: Mef.Zeani-Oliv..mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:28pm EDT

Jonas Kaufmann Sings Verdi

Just to see if these podcasts are FINALLY working, here are arias from Luisa Miller and I Masnadieri, from the wonderful new Jonas Kaufmann Verdi album. He is superb!!!!

Direct download: Kaufmann_Verdi_test.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:48pm EDT

uuu

Direct download: 14_-_soviero14.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:03pm EDT

   When I see two Normas this year, with Sondra Radvanovsky and Angela Meade, I will be very let-down, because NO ONE can compare with Mme.Lynn.Oh well, tutto declina!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 12:56am EDT

  Cornell MacNeil, born Sept.24, 1922, caused a FUROR every time he sang his sensational high notes. It was breathtaking!!! Bless this man, not just for high notes, but for his great singing.

Category:general -- posted at: 8:42pm EDT

  The night after we saw Warren pass away on stage, the great Bastianini, born Sept.22, 1922, sang a magnificent Gerard in Andrea Chenier. It was March 5, 1960 and we were not in a very good mood;however, at least we did hear another great baritone. We lost him too soon of throat cancer, but he will always be remembered as one of the great baritones.

Category:general -- posted at: 8:38pm EDT

I heard this great man shortly before his passing. He sang this aria and "La donna e mobile."He sounded as brilliant always. Born Sept.24, 1927, he was a model of taste,style,technique.One of the greatest tenors ever!

Category:general -- posted at: 8:34pm EDT

  One of the most famous sopranos, Elizabeth Rethberg, born Sept. 22, 1894. I am told that we just do not get the gorgeous "overtones" on recordings, whichhappens very often.

  Repairman due tomorrow so hold your breath and hope to resume regular podcasts soon.

Category:general -- posted at: 11:26pm EDT

  Here is an example of Rise's great versatility. They showed some clips from her films tonight at the tribute.

Category:general -- posted at: 1:51am EDT

I was 16 and sneaked into the backstage area at the old Met. I suddenly found myself in a hallway on the way to the dressing room of the first singer I ever met, Rise Stevens, who had just sung Carmen. To this DAY I can see her smiling face and actually feel the "greasepaint on my hand" I joined her music club and went every year to her home, where we had a beautiful time always.
    I have just returned from a breathtaking memorial tribute to Rise at the Danny Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College. I was in the lobby and I perceived someone who might have been Nicky Surovy because I recalled him from a TV show;I had not seen him since he was about 15, and went over to him, my eyes beginning to fill with tears, because of what Rise was and what a life she had enjoyed with her fans, and Nicky was a "connection" to her.
   We spoke briefly and then I entered the sold-out theatre, to witness a truly heartwrenching tribute to Rise, who came close to 100, but passed away a few months ago. The hostess was Federica Von Stade and we had speeches by Rosalind Elias, Harolyn Blackwell,Ann Ziff, and of course Nicholas Surovy.
   The number of film clips, some never before available, was astounding, including a remarkable dance sequence with Ray Bolger, and she KEPT UP with him. There were arias, family photos and just so much that it was something extraordinary to behold. Her whole life passed by us and in many ways she "was there" tonight.
  Elias told a funny tale about how she adored Rise and STOLE Rise's Chesterfield cigarette poster once (They allowed those ads then.). Nicky told many tales of their lives and he was as charming as anyone could be. They showed selections never before seen, like the Jean of Arc aria and other material from various TV shows. This was a "class act" and no one deserved it more than the beloved lady whpo brought opera to so many including yours truly.
    I saw Nicky again at the end of the show, shook his hand, and again felt that same "connection" and left the theatre reflecting on the life of this dear lady, who made my young life so joyous.
     There so many tales and so many clips that I could go on and on but I have given you a fairly good idea of this evening at it will stay with me forever. Bless Rise, the beautiful Rise , who shook this teenager's hand so many years ago.  With all my deepest feelings  Charlie
Category:general -- posted at: 1:40am EDT

  Sept. 16, 1977 was the sad premature passing of someone who contributed more to opera than perhaps any other individual, even for a relatively short time. Callas had her flaws, but here in Norma you hear the Maria who took the opera world by storm!!  Bless her memory!

Category:general -- posted at: 8:13pm EDT

  I just discovered the tenor whom I will see in "La Sonnambula" at the Met, This is Javier Camarena, still another of the huge array of present-day tenors who make life so happy! (However there are no Radameses or Manricos.)

   The guy is GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Category:general -- posted at: 7:42pm EDT

  Did you think I would ever let you forget  "the note"? Nothing compared to this moment, at which I used to "collapse' over the railing in the old Met standing room !!!

Category:general -- posted at: 7:32pm EDT

 Hi all,

     When I started this podcast site, there was the ability to add comments by you;sadly, I realized that all kinds of ads...many many of them, intruded, and i had to cut out this feature.   I do like to get your feedback so I can learn if things are to your liking and if you have special requests. If you would be so kind as to send me some feedback (Placido21@aol.com), I would appreciate it. You may write in Spanish,French, or Italian if you wish (I had Latin,but they do not write it any more since they knocked off Caesar.).

    I hope to get the regular podcasts running soon,but for now,I can send the videos.

                                                    Your friend  Charlie

Category:general -- posted at: 3:11pm EDT


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