This Boheme has been a treasure since it was released almost 40 years ago, and this selection of highlights includes most of the high points. Tullio Serafin leads a gloriously idiomatic performance with his all-Italian cast, most of whom are in great voice: Carlo Bergonzi at his most engaging, singing with true morbidezza and lots of feeling and taste; Renata Tebaldi almost at her freshest, presenting a flesh-and-blood Mimi; Ettore Bastianini, whose Marcello is similarly deeply drawn and lush to hear; and Gianna d’Angelo, whose soubrettish Musetta hits the spot. The Rome forces play well. As a bonus, we get Tebaldi and Bergonzi in Puccini arias–also worth hearing. A great bargain and a real treat for beginners and veterans alike. [4/15/2001]
