AIDA Santunione, Bergonzi, Cossotto (NHK 1973) (DVD)

This 1973 Aida stars two of the most celebrated singers of their time, tenor Carlo Bergonzi and Fiorenza Cossotto, both in prime form here. In true Italian tradition, their voices are as affective in the lyrical passages calling for velvety beauty of tone as in the fiery dramatic sections of the opera. The title role is sung by Orianna Santunione, a dramatic soprano of remarkable power, evenness, and intensity.
The other principal singers in this performance are Gianpiero Mastromei, a commanding Amonasro, and Ivo Vinco, an imposing and dignified Ramfis, The forces of the NHK Symphony Orchestra are under the direction of conductor Oliviero De Fabritiis, who backs up the singers with an emotionally charged account of the masterful score. The beautiful and lavish sets and costumes are by the renowned designer Pier Luigi Pizzi.
Embedded Japanese subtitles with optional subtitles in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish.
Color, Stereo, 161 minutes, 4:3, All regions


AIDA
Opera in Four Acts
Music by Giuseppe Verdi
Libretto by Antonio Ghislanzoni

Aida: Orianna Santunione
Radamès: Carlo Berganzi
Amneris: Fiorenza Cossotto
Amonasro: Gianpiero Mastromei
Ramfis: Ivo Vinco
Il Re: Franco Pugliese
Messenger: Fernando Iacopucci
Priestess: Anna Di Stasio

NHK Symphony Orchestra
NHK Italian Opera Chorus
(Federation of Professional Choirs of Japan)
Oliviero De Fabritiis, conductor
Live Performance: September, 1973
NHK Hall, Tokyo