OP2244. RIGOLETTO, recorded 1959, Napoli, w.Molinari-Pradelli Cond. Teatro San Carlo Ensemble; Renato Capecchi, Richard Tucker, Gianna d’Angelo, Ivan Sardi, Miriam Pirazzini, etc. (E.U.) 2-Walhall 0330. Specially priced. - 4035122653304

CRITIC REVIEWS:

“Though not possessing the vocal opulence associated with other star baritones of his era, Renato Capecchi was no vocal underachiever, and his feel for the Italian language and searching musical intellect made him one of the most valued singers of his time. His recorded performance of RIGOLETTO…stands with the best for its mastery of the rôle's subtleties and dramatic truth. Likewise, as Rossini's Figaro, he captured both the quicksilver and pragmatic sides of that buoyant character. Capecchi's repertory was huge, encompassing hundreds of rôles; as the years passed, he increasingly concentrated on the buffo parts, and eventually undertook directorial assignments, allowing him to share his theatrical fluency with other singers.”

- Erik Eriksson, allmusic.com



"...for some thirty years, until his sudden death in 1975, Tucker's vocal security, boundless energy, unceasing enthusiasm, and thorough professionalism ensured a level of popularity that necessitated comparisons to some of his greatest predecessors....Tucker sang thrillingly and delivered the goods, communicating his own joy in singing to all who would listen...."

- Marc Mandel, FANFARE, May/June, 1997