Verdi: Rigoletto (Live)

Sesto Bruscantini (1919-2003) was one of the most refined bel canto interpreters post-WWII. His Mozart, Rossini, Pergolesi and Donizetti roles are absolutely referential; he was a pioneer of the Rossini Renaissance in the 1950’s. He career began as a bass, but after some ten years he switched to baritone roles. He possessed a dark, somber timbre and commanded excellent phrasing. This 1963 broadcast of Rigoletto is previously unreleased. Rare excerpts of Bruscantini in two bass roles are included.