"I cannot recommend this Figaro set highly enough."

Christopher Fifield

"This is another issue of historic Met broadcasts on the Guld label. It is unavailable stateside – a pity, since this is a gem. This 1943 performance was chosen for its superior sound, even though the conductor was the relative unknown Paul Breisach in place of Bruno Walter, who conducted most of the performances. With minor patching from an alternate performance with the same cast, this Nozze is an unalloyed pleasure. Top honours go to the delectable Susanna of Bidù Sayao, for her uncommon tonal beauty and vivid persona. Equally fine is the creamy-voiced, youthful Eleanor Steber (Contessa), then at the beginning of her career. Jarmila Novotna makes a lovable Cherubino. Of the men, Ezio Pinza (Figaro) may sound a bit mature, but his command of the role and strong personality are special. Salvatore Baccaloni is at his best buffo self. Only John Brownlee (Count) sounds uninvolved. Breisach conducts well but obviously not on the level of a Bruno Walter. The bonus is an enjoyable concert with Sayao and tenor Eugene Conley of arias from Manon, Faust, Le Roi d’ys, and Mefistofele. Some of the sheen has come off the Sayao voice by 1951, but the artistry remains intact. Conley sings with manly tone but dreadful Americanized French. A must for lovers of historical broadcasts."

JKS