Donizetti: Lucrezia Borgia - Gencer, Aragall, Petri, Rota; Franci. Napoli, 1966

Description: Lucrezia Borgia is one of the true surprises of the repertoire, a neglected gem that shimmers all the more when it has true star power in the title role. Leyla Gencer is a wonderfully anguished Lucrezia, less dangerous than some, but gorgeously sung throughout. Her son is taken by the under-recorded Giacomo Aragall, who is a full-blooded, attractive presence in a rather thankless role (he doesn't even get a real aria). Mario Petri, in the small but important role of Lucrezia's husband, provides a lovely reading of one of the great bass arias "Vieni, la mia vendetta", and Anna Maria Rota is a lively Orsini. Carlo Forti conducts the forces of the Teatro San Carlo (including some rather unruly brass) in this 1966 performance. OD 11137-2