[78-L] more "accidental" stereo - Toscanini Verdi Req

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An excerpt from the Pristine Classical newsletter.

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LATEST REVIEW
VERDI REQUIEM

Toscanini in stereo
live in 1951

PACO048 77:45
Review by Mortimer H. Frank, Fanfare Jan/Feb '11

This release is neither in synthetic stereo nor a duplication of RCA's 
edition of the performance: To quote Pristine's insert it is "a stereo 
reconstruction using two separate mono recordings made by NBC and 
Carnegie Hall each from differently positioned microphones."

Skepticism was my initial response, but listening proved otherwise. This 
is genuine stereo that adds significant realism to the sound. If it 
lacks the depth and dynamic range typical of today's best engineering it 
nonetheless offers considerably more sonically than what RCA's edition 
provides, not only in its stereo spread but also in including the 
passages that Toscanini objected to and insisted on being replaced by 
rehearsal material before endorsing an "official" release.

Those familiar with earlier Toscanini-NBC performances of this work, 
notably those of 1940 and 1948, may find this one falls short of them. 
Both are available from Music & Arts. The earlier one offers good sound, 
but it is not quite so full as that of a Pristine transfer (PACO 038.) I 
have not heard the Music & Arts transfer of the 1948 concert, which was 
not broadcast. Musically, this 1951 account does not quite match those 
earlier performances. But despite the blemishes that Toscanini could not 
accept, its documentary value is indisputable. For those with a special 
interest in the conductor it provides the opportunity to hear a 
celebrated performance as it has never been heard in a recording before. 
It is certainly a fascinating, often riveting, and, considering its 
provenance, sonically amazing. None of Ben Grauer's commentary is included.

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joe salerno