TOSCANINI

6, 13 December 1947
The Complete Broadcast & Rehearsal

Otello by Verdi

Toscanini’s famed broadcast of this opera has been issued in variable sonics, from the poor sounding RCA Victor LP release, drowned in artificial echo, to the better sounding RCA BMG CD issue. Yet none have delivered the actual sound of the original broadcast, which is superior to every previous release. This is what this Guild release provides — sonics of stunning impact and clarity, together with the original broadcast commentary and ovations, recreating this historic occasion with thrilling fidelity. The Guild set also offers a complete orchestral rehearsal of Act III and a portion of the Act III Dress Rehearsal, with soloists and chorus, devoted to the concluding ensemble. This provides an opportunity to hear this highly complicated music in great detail, revealing its marvelous intricacy. The third CD also includes an interview with Ramon Vinay. This combination constitutes the non plus ultra release of this historic performance and includes a booklet with articles on the performance, the singers and the rehearsal as well as biographies and technical notes. The photos are by the famed Robert Hupka.