This is particularly breathtaking for those who have always wanted a recording of Pavarotti and Freni in their greatest roles, in their primes, but without Herbert von Karajan, who led them in Decca’s studio recording in l973 in a symphonic, large-scaled, very beautiful, but almost lugubrious performance. Taped in Rome in 1969 and led handsomely and with great sensitivity by the lamented Thomas Schippers, this set is extraordinary. Not only are the two superstars in glorious, first-bloom voice, but one senses a closeness in their relationship that’s impossible to fake (they were born in the same town in the same year and shared a wetnurse as infants!). In addition, since both are in such fresh voice, they sing with their innate musicality, elegance of line, and ringing top notes in an easy fashion–they always sound perfectly natural. Sesto Bruscantini, though a bit long in the tooth, is a sympathetic Marcello and Nicolai Ghiuselev impresses as Colline. Rita Talarico’s Musetta is acceptable. The RAI chorus and orchestra, while hardly on a level with Karajan’s Berlin forces, are good enough. Even if you own another Bohème (or two), at this price, this one is a must.
