Composer: Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901)
Works: Aida – opera (1871)
Performers: Maria Caniglia (Aida), Beniamino Gigli (Radames), Italo Tajo (King), Ebe Stignani (Amneris), Tancredi Pasero (Ramfis), Chorus and Orchestra of the Opera House, Rome/Tulio Serafin
Recording: July 1946, NAXOS HISTORICAL 8.110156/57 [CD1 78.07 CD2 62.34]
Label: NAXOS
Verdi’s “Aida” stands as a monumental testament to the composer’s evolution, weaving together themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal against the grand backdrop of ancient Egypt. Premiered in 1871, the opera emerged from a period in which Verdi’s compositional prowess was both assured and expansive, building upon the dramatic impulses that defined his earlier works. This recording, featuring a distinguished cast led by the celebrated tenor Beniamino Gigli and the lyrico-dramatic soprano Maria Caniglia, captures a performance from a golden age of Italian opera, offering listeners a glimpse into the interpretive styles and vocal techniques of a mid-20th century ensemble.
Gigli’s portrayal of Radames is particularly noteworthy, showcasing his signature lyricism fused with the spinto qualities that characterize the role. His rendition of “Celeste Aida” (CD1 tk3) exemplifies this blend, with a commanding high note that transcends the written score, reflecting a tradition once common among tenors of his era. The clarity of his diction and the elegance of his phrasing imbue the character with both nobility and vulnerability, even as the years have lent a certain heft to his voice. Caniglia’s Aida, while occasionally strained in the higher tessitura, particularly in “O Patria Mia” (CD2 tk2), still radiates sincerity and emotional depth. Her interpretation, especially in the final duet with Gigli (CD2 tks.11-13), reveals a poignant connection between the two characters, highlighting the tragic dimensions of their love amidst the opera’s grand themes.
Ebe Stignani’s performance as Amneris is undeniably compelling, her dramatic mezzo-soprano voice capturing the multifaceted nature of the character. The emotional arc in Act 4, Scene 1 (CD2 tks.7-10), where she oscillates between pleading for Radames’ love and confronting the priests about her impending doom, showcases her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability. Stignani’s rich tone and incisive delivery set a high standard among her contemporaries, reinforcing her status as one of the great dramatic mezzos of the period.
From a technical standpoint, Tulio Serafin’s conducting is marked by a thoughtful pacing that allows the singers to flourish within the lush orchestration. Serafin, a pivotal figure in Verdi’s performance history, brings a sense of lyrical flow to the score, steering clear of the freneticism often associated with contemporaries like Toscanini. However, the recording itself presents challenges; the remastering by Ward Marston reveals variances in balance between the orchestra and the vocalists, with the latter often dominating the soundscape. While the overall sound quality is commendable for a 1946 recording, a certain lack of immediacy and dynamic range is apparent when juxtaposed with later renditions, such as Decca’s 1953 recording featuring Renata Tebaldi.
The historical context of this recording cannot be overlooked. Issued on 40 shellac sides, it represents a significant moment in operatic history, encapsulating a performance ethos that has since evolved. For modern listeners, while the vibrancy and immediacy of contemporary recordings are often sought after, the interpretative choices and vocal artistry present here offer invaluable insights into a past era of opera.
This Naxos release stands as a rich resource for those interested in the legacy of Verdi’s “Aida” and the artistry of its performers. The combination of a stellar cast and Serafin’s thoughtful direction makes it a worthy addition to the catalog of historical recordings, revealing the enduring power of Verdi’s operatic vision amidst the challenges of its time. The recording may lack the polish of modern interpretations, yet it captures the essence of a performance tradition that shaped the operatic landscape for generations.
