Less well remembered by the general, non-cognoscenti opera admirer, Ettore Bastianini (1922-67) was nonetheless among the finest, busiest and most beloved Italian bass-baritones of the 1950s. This now legendary 1959 studio performance of Gaetano Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor finds him in the company of the young, rising star soprano of the opera world at that time, Renata Scotto, and tenor Giuseppe di Stefano. The under-appreciated Nino Sanzogno (1911-83) leads the La Scala, Milan Orchestra and Chorus.

Why beat around the bush? This is one of the greatest vocal recitals ever recorded, comparable to the Callas Puccini and Verdi recitals, and belongs in the collection of anyone with an interest in the verismo repertory. Renata Scotto was at the height of her considerable powers, the voice under near complete control and her interpretive instincts honed to perfection. It is a special treat to hear her in roles that she never recorded complete. Both her Lauretta from 'Gianni Schicchi' and her Manon are distinguished creations. It is also good to hear her roles she never performed such as Magda in 'La Rondine' and the title roles in 'Iris' and 'La Wally.'
Not everything is perfect. Like many great Mimìs, Scotto attempted Musetta, both on recording and onstage with little success. Scotto recorded relatively few recitals. In addition to this one there are especially fine joint recitals with Placido Domingo and Mirella Freni. The excerpts from four of her complete Sony recordings is a welcome bonus (the uncredited Pinkerton in the second Butterfly excerpt is Placido Domingo).