Description:

Although Claudio Abbado’s tenure at La Scala was brief, he left and indelible impression and this performance is definitely a part of that legacy.  There was a recording made with this cast but to my ear this live recording captures the excitement of the performance.  Piero Cappuccilli was the leading Verdi baritone of his time and sings the part thrillingly.  He is joined by Shriley Verrett who was born to sing this music.   She sings her first aria with frightening power and then manages a fil di voce high d flat in the sleepwalking scene.  Nicolai Ghiaurov sings Banquo, and almost stops the show with his aria.

OD 10171-2