Mario Lanza, the celebrated American tenor, captivates audiences once again with his 1962 release, "Récital d'airs d'opéras français." This exquisite collection of French opera arias showcases Lanza's remarkable vocal prowess and versatility. The album features iconic pieces from renowned operas such as "Faust," "Carmen," and "Samson et Dalila," among others. Accompanied by the RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Fritz Reiner, Lanza delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. The mono recording, spanning 43 minutes, offers a glimpse into the golden age of opera, with Lanza's rich, resonant voice bringing each aria to life. Whether you're an opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a testament to Lanza's enduring legacy and the timeless beauty of French opera.
Faust, Act III, Scene 4: Cavatine (Faust)Charles Gounod, Jussi Björling, RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra, Renato Cellini
Faust, Act III, Scene 6: Air des bijoux (Marguerite)Charles Gounod, Anna Moffo, Orchestra Del Teatro Dell'Opera Di Roma, Tullio Serafin
Hérodiade, Act II: "Ce breuvage pourrait..." (Hérode)Jules Massenet, Robert Merrill, Orchestra Del Teatro Dell'Opera Di Roma, Jonel Perlea
Carmen, Act II: Air de la fleur (Don José)Georges Bizet, Mario Lanza, RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra, Fritz Reiner
Carmen, Act I: Habanera (Carmen, Chœur)Georges Bizet, Rise Stevens, RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra, Fritz Reiner, RCA Victor Chorus
Samson et Dalila, Act I: "Arrêtez, ô mes frères !" (Samson, Chœur)Camille Saint-Saëns, Mario del Monaco, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Fausto Cleva, Metropolitan Opera House Chorus
Lakmé, Act II: Air des clochettes (Lakmé)Léo Delibes, Roberta Peters, Orchestra Del Teatro Dell'Opera Di Roma, Vincenzo Bellezza
Manon, Act III: "Ah! Fuyez, douce image" (Des Grieux)Jules Massenet, Richard Verreau, Orchestra Della Rai di Torino, Wilfred Pelletier
Hamlet, Act II: "Le vin dissipe la tristesse" (Brindisi)Ambroise Thomas, Robert Merrill, Orchestra Del Teatro Dell'Opera Di Roma, Vincenzo Bellezza