Angela Gheorghiu, Roberto Alagna, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala – Puccini: La Boheme (1999) [Reissue 2003] [SACD / Decca – 470 624-2]
![Angela Gheorghiu, Roberto Alagna, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala - Puccini: La Boheme (1999) [Reissue 2003]](https://imghd.xyz/images/2024/06/15/c452f80ccb5a4c2c8395163673824222-8779418281956165037.webp "Angela Gheorghiu, Roberto Alagna, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala - Puccini: La Boheme (1999) [Reissue 2003]")
Title: Angela Gheorghiu, Roberto Alagna, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala – Puccini: La Boheme (1999) [Reissue 2003]
Genre: Classical
Format: MCH SACD ISO + DSF DSD64 + Hi-Res FLAC
Decca’s new recording of La Bohème with Angela Gheorghiu and Roberto Alagna, conducted by Riccardo Chailly, joins iconic performances by Tebaldi and Bergonzi (1950s) and Freni and Pavarotti (1970s), delivering a standout interpretation for the new millennium. Chailly’s sensitive phrasing and brisk yet unhurried tempos, paired with the La Scala Orchestra and Chorus’s innate feel for Puccini, create a compelling performance, enhanced by Francesco Degrada’s 1988 critical edition with subtle, polished changes like Alagna’s romantic E at Act One’s close. Gheorghiu and Alagna, a real-life couple, bring heartfelt synergy to Mimì and Rodolfo, with Gheorghiu’s dark, skillful voice shining in “Mi chiamano Mimì” and Alagna’s boyish charm peaking in “Che gelida manina.” Simon Keenlyside’s ardent Marcello and Anna Scano’s sparkling Musetta, alongside vivid portrayals by the other Bohemians and Alfredo Mariotti’s lively Benoit and Alcindoro, add depth, making this Bohème a highly recommended, near-perfect addition to the opera’s discography.