Ivo Kristian Kubak wrote:

>I just wanted to know what the comments and recommendations might be on
>the Verdi Requiem.  Does Solti's recording on DECCA worth buying? Which
>Toscanini recording is better?

I know only two recordings of the Requiem by Toscanini.  IMO neither
should be your only recording of the work.  Most recently I've heard the
reissue of a live performance on the Music and Arts label.  Its strengths
are chiefly the electricity of the live performance (I think it was in
Carnegie Hall), and Jussi Bjoerling.  Problems aside from poor sound
(although acceptable) include a very shaky high note (you know the spot:
"Requiem....requie-EMMMMMM") by Zinka Milanov, and a few moments of chaos
in the final "Libera Me" fugue.  I guess I would consider this recording
a testament to the state of nervous tension that can occur when great
musicians approach even greater music.  Nowadays we are so accustomed to
editorially "perfect" yet bloodless performances that it's hard to overlook
errors in live performances, even when offset by other rewarding moments.

It's been so long since I've heard the studio recording that I can't really
comment on it, except that you can hear Toscanini singing or humming in
places.  Others will be able to speak more cogently, I'm sure.

Chris Bonds