Carmen. Yes, it is undoubtedly one of the biggest hits in the operatic world. In my view, it’s a fascinating opera—a blend of passion, social commentary, and great music filled with memorable melodies. It feels very close to us: human beings driven by emotions and impulses, trying to navigate their principles. Ultimately, even though it…
I discovered this recording as a child through Björling, a singer I like very much, at a time when LPs dominated the market. Together with de los Ángeles, Merrill, and Beecham, it sounded like a dream version of ‘La Bohème’…
La Bohème is a great entry point into Italian opera. Verismo, the dominant style of Italian opera at the time, aimed to bring opera closer to ordinary people than traditional grand operas did. Here, we follow the story of ordinary young people, capturing the joys and heartbreaks of real life. What a contrast to Don…