Donizetti: L'elisir D'amore (complete opera recorded in 1949)

"Other great benefit from the Naxos Historical series has been to expand our knowledge of the Brazilian soprano Bidu Sayao. As a total charmer among lyric sopranos she is perfectly cast here as Adina, giving a sparkling portrayal opposite the young, golden-toned Tagliavini as Nemorino. Like all Italian tenors of his generation, he has his unstylish habits, but echoing Gigli he gives a winningly delicate account of Una furtive lagrima, as well as entering into the fun of the piece. Giuseppe Valdengo could hardly be stronger as a firm, powerful Belcore, and the veteran, Salvatore Baccaloni, in traditional buffo bass style milks every comic point as the quack, Dulcamara, with Antonicelli timing the comedy to a nicety. Clear, if limited, mono sound. As a supplement come two delightful live recordings of Sayao: Nedda's communing with the birds in Pagliacci and the Bohème duet, O soave fanciulla, with Giuseppe di Stefano." Penguin Guide Three Stras