Experience the legendary Maria Callas in her prime with this historic live recording from the Paris Opera, captured on December 19, 1958. This album, released by Unbeldi, presents a captivating selection of arias from Bellini's "Norma," Verdi's "Il trovatore," and Rossini's "Il barbiere di Siviglia," showcasing Callas' unparalleled vocal prowess and dramatic intensity.
The album opens with a powerful scene from "Norma," featuring Callas as the high priestess, followed by her iconic rendition of "Casta Diva." The performance continues with a stirring scene from "Il trovatore," culminating in the dramatic "Miserere" scene, and concludes with Callas' sparkling performance of "Una voce poco fa" from "Il barbiere di Siviglia."
This 34-minute live recording offers a rare opportunity to hear Maria Callas in her element, performing at the height of her career. The album is a testament to her enduring legacy and a treat for both opera enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike. The live recording captures the energy and excitement of a live performance, making it a unique addition to any music collection. The album features the Orchestra of the Paris Opera, conducted by Georges Sébastian, providing a rich and authentic backdrop to Callas' extraordinary voice.
2023 Unbeldi2023 Fonds de Dotation Maria Callas
Tracks
Norma, Act I Scene 4: Scena e Cavatina, "Sediziose voci" (Norma, Oroveso, Chorus) - Live Recording, Paris, 19 December 1958Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Georges Sebastian, Maria Callas, Jacques Mars, Choeur de l'Opéra National de Paris
Norma, Act I Scene 4: Preghiera, "Casta diva" (Norma, Chorus) - Live Recording, Paris, 19 December 1958Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Georges Sebastian, Maria Callas, Choeur de l'Opéra National de Paris
Norma, Act I Scene 4: "Fine al rito" (Norma, Chorus) - Live Recording, Paris, 19 December 1958Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Georges Sebastian, Maria Callas, Choeur de l'Opéra National de Paris
Norma, Act I Scene 4: "Ah! bello a me ritorna ... Sei lento, sì, sei lento" (Norma, Chorus) - Live Recording, Paris, 19 December 1958Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Georges Sebastian, Maria Callas, Choeur de l'Opéra National de Paris
Il trovatore, Act IV Scene 1: No. 12a. Scena, "Vanne, lasciami, né timor di me ti prenda" (Leonora) - Live Recording, Paris, 19 December 1958Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Georges Sebastian, Maria Callas
Il trovatore, Act IV Scene 1: No. 12b. Aria, "D'amor sull'ali rosee vanne" (Leonora) - Live Recording, Paris, 19 December 1958Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Georges Sebastian, Maria Callas
Il trovatore, Act IV Scene 1: No. 12c. "Miserere d'un'alma già vicina ... Quel suon, quelle preci solenni, funeste ... Ah, che la morte ognora" (Chorus, Leonora, Manrico) - Live Recording, Paris, 19 December 1958Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Georges Sebastian, Maria Callas, Choeur de l'Opéra National de Paris, Albert Lance
Il barbiere di Siviglia, Act I Scene 5: No. 5. Cavatina, "Una voce poco fa" (Rosina) - Live Recording, Paris, 19 December 1958Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Georges Sebastian, Maria Callas