Search - Alison Browner :: Verdi: Oberto

Rare opera, odd cast, great conductor...I like it!

Armindo | Greece | 04/02/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Pairing the ever-elegant Carlo Bergonzi with the volcano of the 80s, Ghena Dimitrova is one of the wildest cast choices one could ever make (think of honey with pepper!). Funnily enough, I found the results most fascinating.



Both Bergonzi and Panerai are old-timers and past their vocal prime but they know the secrets of Verdian singing. The legendary tenor inevitably struggles with most high notes but he does more with one phrase than others do in an entire performance. Great singing does not need tricks to be affective but it does need technique and Mr. Bergonzi defines vocal technique. Panerai in the title bass role makes a noble Oberto but sounds vocally dry.



Benefiting from her stylish partners, Dimitrova gives us a calm Leonora despite her fiery voice. She sings well both in the lyrical and dramatic parts of the role. As usual with big voices (e.g. Tebaldi, Nilsson) the size of her instrument is not captured well in a studio. What is captured well is her Slavic accent but it didn't annoy that much (and I'm picky when it comes to this). Ruza Baldani in the meaty mezzo role sings well if slightly detached.



Maestro Gardelli once again wins my praise for his sensitive conducting. While far from Verdi's best operas, Oberto has much to offer and this recording, though outrageously expensive here, helps us appreciate it.

"