Herbert von Karajan & Wiener Philharmoniker

Verdi: Aida Herbert von Karajan & Wiener Philharmoniker

This studio recording, featuring Herbert von Karajan and the Vienna Philharmonic, as well as the Singverein of the Society of Music Friends under the direction of Reinhold Schmidt, was originally recorded in September 1959 at the Sofiensaal in Vienna. The legendary Decca recording, featuring soloists such as Renata Tebaldi and Carlo Bergonzi, is characterized by a symphonic, velvety orchestral sound, dynamics rendered with extreme attention to detail, and a highly emotional, almost chamber-music-like intimacy that eschews pomp in favor of psychological depth. The original tapes were meticulously remastered at the Esoteric Mastering Center by producer Jo Yoshida, executive producer Motoaki Ohmachi (president and one of the founders of the Esoteric Company), and mastering engineer Masaya Tohno, making this recording of Verdi’s legendary opera – released as part of the “Esoteric Classical Masterpiece Collection” – an absolute collector’s item!

Esoteric's reissue of classical music masterpieces has attracted a great deal of attention worldwide. The uncompromising commitment to restoring and remastering the original tapes, as well as the use of Hybrid Super Audio CD technology to enhance sound quality, makes all Esoteric releases a must-have for all lovers of classical music!

Limited Edition Hybrid SACD (Dual-Layer). Japanese pressing.

MUSICIANS

Conductor: Herbert von Karajan Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra Singverein der Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde Chorus Master: Reinhold Schmidt

Aida: Renata Tebaldi (soprano) Radames: Carlo Bergonzi (tenor) Amneris: Giulietta Simionato (mezzo soprano) Amonasro: Cornell MacNeil (baritone) Ramfis: Arnold van Mill (bass) Il re: Fernando Corena (bass) Un messaggero: Piero de Palma (tenor) Una sacerdotessa: Eugenia Ratti (soprano)

Recorded at the Sofiensäle, Vienna, on September 2-15, 1959

We recommend the use of "L'Art du Son" CD/DVD conditioner for even more sonic improvement.