Verdi - Rigoletto / Chernov · Studer · Pavarotti · Scandiuzzi · D. Graves · D. Croft · MET · Levine

This is a fine performance of Verdi's great middle-period tragedy. James Levine whips his orchestra into a frenzy when need be, is amazingly tender during the Rigoletto-Gilda duets, and comments spectacularly on the action when Rigoletto is taunting Monterone in Act One. In fact, the orchestra makes up for Vladimir Chernov's undercharacterization in that scene. Later, Chernov livens up, using his smallish, but wonderfully phonogenic voice with great expressivity; indeed, his "Cortigiani..." is heartbreaking. As the Duke, The Big One (Luciano, that is) is in superb voice and turns in a wildly aggressive, go-get-her performance, but please don't be fooled into thinking that he still sounds this good--this set was recorded in '93. Cheryl Studer's Gilda is not always in tune, and some of her high notes barely squeak by, but she's very moving and sings off the words in a really informed manner. This set may not be your primary Rigoletto--who can live without the Callas recording? But it's an excellent and even important release, and it's recommended highly. --Robert Levine