"Puccini's Tosca (abridged in English) The historic debut of performance
of Leontyne Price 1955" (Legato Classics LCD 233-1)
The opera is abridged for television (77'46") beginning with "Sante
ampolle, il suo ritrato" ("Goodness gracious, I know this
lady.") Scarpia's church scene at the end Act I is ommitted. Act II
starts with "Egli e la" (He's outside). Act III begins with the
Jailor's "Mario Cavaradossi, a voi."
The singers' English diction is excellent.
Price's voice is fresh, lush; her Tosca is a girlish, sexy diva who is
impetuous, passionate, a tigress. Hers is a convincing, accomplished portrayal
both dramatically and vocally.
David Poleri (Cavaradossi) has a good, somewhat lackluster tenor. He has an
intelligent sense of drama and pays attention to the meaning of the words.
Josh Wheeler's Scarpia is suave and laid back. His lightweight baritone lacks
the necessary "vocal snarl"; his Scarpia is neither evil, debauched,
nor a rapist.
Thomas Stewart ably sings the part of Cesare Angelotti.
Conductor Peter Herman Adler gives his all in shaping the lyricism and drama of
this music.
The orchestra is not credited.
The sound is good.
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