Ponchielli: La Gioconda - Ross, Tucker, Rankin, Verlinghieri; Moresco. Philadelphia, 1966

La Gioconda Amilcare Ponchielli (1834 - 1886) DESCRIPTION This performance of La Gioconda captures the incomparable American soprano Elinor Ross at the height of her powers. Her voice seems to possess almost inexhaustible reserves; just when it appears to have reached its maximum, she finds another level of intensity to thrilling effect. Yet her portrayal is far more than a display of vocal power. Ross also brings considerable finesse to the role, including a sublime pianissimo B-flat at "Enzo adorato." Richard Tucker, well known for his portrayal of Enzo, brings his characteristic style and vocal opulence to the role. Nell Rankin meets the high standard set by her colleagues with a distinguished Laura. As Barnaba, Silvano Verlinghieri displays an attractive tone, though his performance is marred by problems of intonation. The chorus struggles at times to keep pace with Carlo Moresco tempi, resulting in several conspicuous ensemble breakdowns. CAST La Gioconda – Elinor Ross Enzo Grimaldo – Richard Tucker Laura Adorno – Nell Rankin Barnaba – Silvano Verlinghieri Alvise Badoero – Nicola Moscona La Cieca – Margaret Roggero Zuàne – Walter Knetlar Isèpo – Luigi Vellucci DETAILS Location: Philadelphia Date: April 22, 1966 Conductor: Carlo Moresco Catalogue Number: OD12407-2 Label: Opera Depot Number of Discs: 2 In Mono NOTE The sound is somewhat muffled in Acts I and II and becomes quite muffled in Acts III and IV.