Mario Lanza Live At The Hollywood Bowl: Historical Recordings (1947 & 1951)

A shadow of greatness

This CD can only hint at the greatness that was Mario Lanza. But I agree with some of the other reviewers. The opera on it is as close as you will ever come to glimpsing a truly extraordinary voice....a once in a lifetime voice. Show biz robbed him of his place in the firmament. November 29, 2008

The Greatest Voice of All Time

Mario Lanza was the greatest voice of all time because of the depth, breath, and sheer beauty of his natural tenor qualities and his magnificent ability to sing in nearly all fields supremely well. These recordings are good examples of the range and power and unique ability of this splendid artist who still captures the imagination of those who listen to his voice for the first time and those who cannot stop listening. May 31, 2008

This is where he started

This is a must cd for anyone who is
a Mario Lanza fan. This is where he
started.The music is wonderful. March 31, 2008

The Young Lanza impresses

I am a singer and have been a Mario Lanza fan since becoming interested in opera in my teens. The quality of his singing varied a great deal, especially in his later years. But this Hollywood Bowl concert, at age 26, shows him with a freshness and ease of production that failed him later in life. Highlights for me were the Boheme Duet - I don't know of any of the current tenor stars who would dare to hold the High A for so long and then jump right to the High C and be able to sustain it. The Andrea Chenier demonstrates his spinto side and the beauty of his middle and lower voice. One weeps for what might have been. But I will put this recording against Mr. Alagna any day of the week. April 10, 2007

A Rare Find!

The "Live From London" is my favorite cd and this is a close second. I usually listen to the Bowl selections only and save the Coca-Cola radio program for another time. The recording quality is not the best, but this is a wonderful sourvenir of the young singer in excellent voice and delivery at the begining of his career. The selections with soprano Frances Yeend are a wonderful addition since there are few recorded "live concert" Lanza duets available outside of this venue (there are recordings of his later Bowl appearances you may want to check out). Mario's introductions show his warmth and humor. It was at this concert that MGM took notice and his career moved to the movie studios. We are fortunate to have this recording. One of the highlights of the Coke show program is Mario's introduction to the "Our Father". Disregard the liner notes. For value delivered, this cd rates five stars! December 18, 2002

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