“IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA : Rossini
Original Air Date: 03/06/1954
Cast: Erede; Merrill, Peters, Valletti, Corena, Siepi
Media: MOD Audio SID.17500532 Tags: Archive; 2017
This production was recorded by RCA with Leinsdorf for Erede, and Tozzi for Siepi, but the rest of the cast intact. Merrill and Peters are both very fine, but it is the three Italians who give performances to savor. Corena was never in second tier with his Bartolo, and the recitatives with Siepi absolutely magical. A spirited ensemble and you can hear it in uncompressed sound on MOoD any time you want. Highly recommended.
10/24/11 – This broadcast, a month after the production’s premiere is among the most vocally potent Barbieres in the history of the Met, and the RCA recording under Leinsdorf only substitutes Tozzi for Siepi for the main cast. Though I generally prefer mezzo Rosinas, this is Peters at ther best, and I find the male contingent very satisfying indeed. This is available on Met Player, and I will make sure I check it out either via Sirius or Met Player this week. No Cessa di piu resistere though Valletti did include it on the RCA recording. Don’t miss.”