As a fine Aida at the Met around 1981 (not my favorite opera particularly conducted as it was by a raucous Levine) but an even better Tosca, almost visceral, from the same period.
As a more careful listener today, the YTs of bits of the Trovatore Leonora or Don Carlo Elisabetta are essential indulgences, as are the priceless live Opera d’Oro issues (Ballo, Gioconda etc).
I don't know if you heard Caballe in her prime, as I did, but in addition to the live performances you mention, as anecdotal evidence I vividly recall the poise and penetration of her sustained pianissimi.
These recordings, as befit a studio production, are unblemished and earmarked for posterity. The “Depuis le Jour” with its extraordinary high pianissimi would seem to be evidence of some skillful sonic manipulation in the studio. Yet there are several live performances (some on YT and some on pirates) that bear witness to this unexcelled artistic accomplishment.
Dear Ralph Moore,
you have to try the French Album of Caballe whitch she recorded with Gramophone, i think it is one of the best ever recorded from her.
best wishes
Markus
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