A fascinating historical collection featuring thirteen distinguished British basses and baritones, including Norman Allin, Peter Dawson, Robert Radford, Dennis Noble, Percy Heming, Frederic Ranalow and Roy Henderson.
Released in 1972 as part of The HMV Treasury series, this mono compilation draws upon recordings originally made between 1918 and 1947. Its programme encompasses opera, oratorio and traditional song, with music by Handel, Gounod, Haydn, Mendelssohn, Elgar, Mozart, Rossini, Verdi, Wagner and others.
Particular highlights include Norman Allin singing Honour and Arms, Peter Dawson’s performance of The Sword Song, Herbert Heyner conducted by Sir Edward Elgar, Dennis Noble as Figaro and Iago, and historic excerpts from The Beggar’s Opera.
The vinyl displays visible light surface marks and hairlines consistent with previous use and is visually graded VG. It has not been play-tested.
The textured picture sleeve is graded VG, with general edge and corner wear, surface rubbing, small marks and age-related discolouration. The extensive recording information and biographical notes on the reverse remain clearly legible.
Includes a period EMI paper inner sleeve showing age toning, marking and creasing.
An interesting archive collection for enthusiasts of historic vocal recordings, early opera singers and British classical performance.
UK mono pressing, 1972.
Catalogue number: HLM 7009