Description:

This performance caught my attention because it features the British soprano Pauline Tinsley as Turandot, and she does not disappoint. Her voice is both powerful and tireless in the upper register, combining a purity of tone that captures the Chinese princess’s dual nature—both virginal and savage.

Her Calàf is the fine tenor William Johns, who showcases his sweet yet robust voice in all its glory. While Johns would later shift to the heldentenor repertoire, to the detriment of his instrument, here he is in prime form.

The rest of the performance is somewhat uneven, with a notably rocky start when the Mandarin enters a measure too early, leading the chorus into chaos. But moments like this are part of the unpredictable charm of live theater. The sound quality is fair.

OD 10684-2