To celebrate today, January 25, we present a big chunk of Tosca, Act 1 with Renata Tebaldi and Richard Tucker. January 25, 1945 was Richard Tucker's Met debut, as Enzo in La Gioconda. For 30 consecutive seasons he starred at the Met in over 30 operas and over 700 appearances.

He was without doubt the greatest tenor I ever heard live. I will remember him always, as a tenor, and as a dear friend.

Renata Tebaldi's birthday is about to be celebrated, and she was one of Tucker's very favorite partners to sing with.

Listen to them both, and the Golden Age of Singing will come back to life right before your very ears!!

Best,

Ed

All podcasts may also be accessed at www.premiereopera.com

With the St. Lukes Orchestra at Caramoor in July of 2006, two selections from West Side Story- Maria, and Tonight, featuring tenor Andrew Drost.

Listen to high D natural as audience reacts.