I was lucky enough to hear her twice - both times for free, at the "Opera in the Park" at the Domain in Sydney. A great privilege, and she was greatly loved.
I love Joan Sutherland to death, but she didn't sing this one in the key of G. This performance is clearly in F, she only goes up to a Bb5. If it were in G, she would go up to a C6. If you want to hear her Casta Diva in G, look up her 1964 Norma Bell Telephone Hour.
It shatters my heart that she is gone. I don't think I will ever get over it. I love her voice and her presence on stage. She signs the autographs with so much love that I feel she thinks everyone is special. She is beautiful inside and out and everything else. Everyone else should step aside to honor this great lady. No one is in her level, not even close.
This (or at least a different performance in the same season) was the first opera I attended. I took my mum who, despite being a lifelong opera lover, had never seen Joan on stage. Joan came out, planted her feet and began this aria, filling the theatre with that majestic voice. That was it for me, I've been hooked ever since.
You sang for us, and enriched our lives beyond imagination. Now, may flights of angels sing for you. Rest in peace Great Lady, with our eternal gratitude.
I can't even believe the voice-I heard it live in this at MET w/ Horne in 1970. It was overwhelming. She had sung w/ Indpls Symphony a concert at Clowes Hall in Jan.same year- amazing! truly the voice of the century. may she rest in peace. Chorus Master- Indpls Opera
What a voice! She and Callas were in a league of their own. Please, let's not compare the two. They were both incredible opera singers and I don't think one was better than the other. They were both terrific. R.I.P. Joan Sutherland.
For me this is such a performance that no words can describe it. Joan was one of the best ever not only as an artist but as person. I love Angela Gheorghiu and Elina Garanca but Joan is part of my DNA. My father's love of her performances when I was a mere toddler, embedded classics in my being. May she rest in peace surrounded by a choir of a billion angels.
It's sad that everybody talks about music as a combination of techniques and comparisons, each singer has his or her own way to perform and it doesn't mean that somebody is the best performer....Callas is great, Sutherland is great, Fleming is great (have you guys heard her performance of Casta Diva)...musicians are made to be enjoyed, not to be critisized.
Alejandro Moreno what's sad is how far singing has declined. Thinking as you do is part of the problem. I know you mean well, and you're partly correct, but if you think Fleming is anywhere in the same class as the other 2 you mention, you don't understand or have the knowledge of the art form to be able to hear how far the art form has fallen. And singing will continue to decline even further
I agree with the selection of all the singers you said. They have a great technique of expression and they put hearts in it and that is the essence of beautiful art
This is the single greatest problem with recordings: it creates armchair critics who spend more time listening to recordings that attending live performances, and think they know better.
I am sad to hear of her passing. Wonderful voice, Lovely woman, very modest and kind. I actually met her at an antiques fair in Hatfield many years ago and spoke with her at length. No one to compare her to. The very finest of our time.
I enjoy the different musicians that I have heard over many years, from Pavarotti, to to Maria Callas to Beverly Sills, and all other musicians whether they be classical musicians of an orchestra, or vocal and operatic stars. All have, or had gorgeous singing voices and gifts, each with his or her on unique singing and musical ability. I find and place no judgement on any of them, regardless of their gift. It is there for all to hear and enjoy. I personally become annoyed with people offering personal opinions that demean and belittle musicians and their abilities. As some have said, it is all a matter of personal preference. Having said that, I happen to love this version of the "Norma Opera" and this rendition of Casta Diva as sung by Dame Joan Sutherland. She sings the song with grace and exceptional vocal control that I have never really heard from other vocal musicians in her class. Her vocal ability is well honed over many years of dedication and devotion to her singing. Her vocal control often exceeds many well known and established female opera stars. Her intelligence was well balanced with her gift and she shared them both freely and without judgement... Watch her "1995 Master Class" video. Her passing meant the silencing of a rare and precious jewel, just as it did Madam Maria Callas and Beverly Sills, precious and beautiful gifts to the world of music and the beauty they brought to us all. Treasure them and the memories these videos bring into our lives... I do.
I am not arguing with anybody maybe I should of kept it to myself. it was just my simple opinion, to me her performance is flawless, she controls her voice in a manner no other performer does it at any octave range, I respect everybody else's personal tastes. I came here to enjoy her divine singing,
Aquí me uno a todos los seguidores y admiradores de esta inigualable intérprete una Artista que supo poner el nombre de una de las artes más completa la ópera en el podigo más alto su voz y su presencia Escénica dejaron un gran legado para las nuevas y futuras generaciones señores aquí hay una deslumbrante genio del mundo del Canto Lírico desde Madrid un admirador y seguidor de esta gran Dama mis saludos y agradecimiento por subir este vídeo
In 1985 when she was in her mid-50's Dame Joan came to Washington and performed Anna Bolena in a concert version of the opera at The Kennedy Center Concert Hall. It was the one and only time I saw her live. It was a revelation, the strength and beauty of her voice was something to just experience. Viva La Stupenda!!!
This was my favourite Casta Diva, absolutely fantastic, but I have found Caballe's 1974 Orange performance, which shades even this amazing performance. Thank you Joan for lighting the World with your beautiful voice.
Caballé Orange 1974 was and will remain something unique and unreachable for many reasons. Something magic happened that evening. Thank God it was recorded and today we can enjoy it.
Sutherland insisted that Caballé should assume Norma as a very flattering role, and Caballé responded that he had never wanted to study it because she was a lyric with coloratura, but not a natural coloratura. Which would not be his surprise when the Sutherland showed him the original score and found that the vast majority of these coloraturas did not exist. In the face of Caballé 's astonishment, Sutherland retorted, "Montsy, my dear, I do with her what is best given to me, do you what is best for you "
Never got to actually experience "live" performances, but listened (and still do) avidly to her recordings, and now the videos that have been so graciously provided conntinue to uplift the spirit. Yes, she "was a miraculous opera singer, to be sure." Meetng her several years ago here in San Francisco @ the North Beach Tower Records was a joyful experience! She was the greatest of them all!
I am enjoying seeing so many lovely and loving comments about the Late, Great, Dame Joan Sutherland. There have been many who criticized her singing. Often uneducated people with closed minded and heavily biased opinion. But it's exciting seeing that so many people stepped forward to offer their thoughts about this amazing woman. I watched her speaking publicly a few times online and on television. To hear her speak, you would never guess she had the singing voice with the vocal power she possessed. I've seen many and heard many a soprano and mezzo-soprano. I've never heard a single one who could reach the high notes that she reached with such masterful ease. It isn't to say there aren't any that can reach the same notes that she was able to, there are. But when required to reach the highest notes in any piece of operatic music, you can see the performers struggling and putting a great effort just to reach the notes. Those same notes that Dame Sutherland reached so effortlessly. What so many people might not be aware of, is her height. She was a towering figure of a woman and stood over 6'2" tall... Yet another amazing tidbit about an amazing musical gift to the world. I wrote the following post just over 5 years ago after seeing some harsh criticism of Ms Sutherland. I figured it's time to perhaps share it again: My old Post: still and always maintain, that all the soprano's and mezzo sopranos who sang this song, Callas, Sills, Qerquetti, Sutherland, Flemming, and even Leontyne Price, all reached and attained the status of "Great Musicians". All sang their version of this song with equal beauty that surpassed all other vocalists in their class and at the time of their reign. They did not become great because they could sing, they became great because they could sing better than anyone around them. Music is a purely, personal choice, like it, love it, hate it, or whatever. I am glad to see some at least saying that they prefer one, or the other, but really don't like the people who are blatantly throwing criticism and injecting their biased and insulting views of the performers who sang this song. I have watched most of them and enjoyed each one for their talents. Only a couple did not appeal and I simply stopped watching because I chose not to finish viewing. My personal favorite is still Dame Joan Sutherland. She could sing it with beauty, poise and reached all the highest notes with ease, where the other songstresses struggled visibly to attain those difficult and challenging notes. It's true, she was no beauty to behold, but her voice was pure, true and a testament to her dedication to her gift. This applies to all gifted artists who sing this song. In other words, just watch and enjoy. Music is purely a personal preference and personal choice… --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On a short side note, I filmed, produced and created a short PSA style video. I hope you will watch after enjoying hearing and watching Ms Sutherland's performance again. Here is the link: th-cam.com/video/u5NRRvjrG78/w-d-xo.html
Her voice was so multi dimensional its unreal, she could be soft and gentle, powerful and almost destructive and more importantly she had a natural sonic beauty in her voice! She could touch your soul! Brilliant stuff, thanks for uploading ;-)
I have watched many a musician, soprano & Mezzo soprano alike, sing their rendition of this song "Casta Diva." None of them have the vocal fortitude that Dame Joan Sutherland had. She sang, accentuated, emphasized even the smallest note, so that each note is, or rather was, sung clearly without being carried, or blended into the next note. Her vocal prowess is truly remarkable. She reached the highest notes in this song and made it look so effortless. While every other soprano and mezzo-soprano struggled to reach the upper notes, she sang them as if sailing on the wind and was able to reach the high notes in a manner that belies the supreme effort and skill it takes to sing this song. Her falsetto is, or rather was, unmatched and I have never heard any soprano sing it as she does in this and previous performances… Amazing, remarkable, stupendous. In short, Bravo!!!, Bravo!!!, Bravo!!! I wish I could have had the honor and pleasure of seeing her perform live. I must content myself with watching this video. It is my favorite. I'm no music critic, I offer no professional critique, I just know what I like. After all, isn't that what listening to music is supposed to be about???
I love her recorded version on her Greatest Hits CD. She sings a C6 instead of a Bb5 on the CD and it is a lot fuller with more volume. Her control over her volume is amazing too. (On her recorded version) I especially love when she sings forte at the high notes and then just like that is back to pianissimo to crescendo down. I just love Joan Sutherland and I believe if you listen to her recorded version, you will possibly agree that she sings this better than anyone else. Her control, and purity of her voice just makes my heart melt.
i knew and heard of her 30 yrs ago but i only really hear her sung now,,,,i am one of fallen now brought up by her voices,,, i am so shame to miss last three decades,,,,hope the dislikes will in decades wake up like me once,,,,,,,,thanks to this posting.great of you.
Only constant rehearsal can produce such a seemingly effortless performance. Always in control. You know their is more there and she teases you with it. What she gives is enough.
+paulette zonneveld Totally agree with you. Saw Dame Joan perform many times at the Sydney Opera House . A wonderful woman who kept both feet well and truly grounded and was polite and courteous to all people .A sad loss for Australia.
Maria's version and her timber for me and probably for many is more sublime than Joan's, but everything is up to personal taste. Lets just enjoy this divine singing!
Joan Sutherland is one of the most important opera performers of 20th century among Maria Callas, Monserrat Caballé,Leontyne Price and others. Some people here they know the value of voice some are not. Some really know the operatic techniques, most of they have No Idea. Just listen. Please if you Don't know about Don't write silly comments...Thank you.
I agree. I hate the idea that opera isn't 'cool' or anything. This video reminds me of my Nan, she used to always play Joan Sutherland on her radio until she died:)
Was in the audience many many years ago to see an opera and was amazed at her performance …. So new to opera had no idea who she was…..what a stage presence!
No matter how many times I have listened to this song and enjoyed this video, I am still left with a profound sense of awe. The mastery of the composition of Vincenzo Bellini is simply superb, and the beauty of how it is rendered and sung by Dame Joan Sutherland is simply without words, although I've written plenty of words about it. This remains and always will be, my most favorite of all the performances I have seen and heard of this movement of "Casta Diva" from the Opera "Norma" by "Vincenzo Bellini." I appreciate how many have stepped forward in support of it, although I fail to understand how "Being Gay" has anything to do with this video or any of its content. The topic is about music, and in particular, this beautiful rendition of Casta Diva as performed and sung by the late great "Dame Joan Sutherland." The world lost a truly magnificent beauty when her voice was finally silenced forever and the music world sadly mourned her passing. But she left rare and beautiful treasures for all to enjoy. There are those who may not care for her and I've seen comments from uninformed individuals who chose to interject their strongly biased opinions and interjected harsh criticism against Ms Sutherland's performance. Alas, those few are woefully uneducated in music and don't understand music nearly as well as they obviously believe that they do. Regardless, those of us who love this recording and Dame Joan Sutherland are blessed with this lasting treasure that is a testament of hers and every other songstress's musical prowess, who sang this piece. And regarding music, I maintain always that "Music Is Arbitrary. It is subject to the whim of those who listen to it." You either like it, love it or hate it. But regardless of you as an individual, it is your personal feelings that makes music what it is to you. No 2 people shares the same exact feeling for any music, and there will always be those who like it, those who love it and those who hate it regardless of what kind of music it happens to be. That is what I mean when I say "Music Is Arbitrary and is subject to the Whim of those who listen to it. I understand music. I grew up around music. I've heard music from around the world and have found beauty in almost every single type, kind and genera of music no matter where it comes from. As for the music of today...? Well, that is another matter entirely that can be discussed at another time. I played in bands in school, sang in choirs in school and in church. I studied music and learned about "Music Appreciation" because I love music in most of its forms... most, but not all. I am human after all and have my shortcomings, likes, and dislikes. Much like the rest of you who loves listening to music. After all, there is magic in the world of music. Music and great storytelling has the power to carry you beyond the realms of this world, and transport you to amazing, dramatic, beautiful and peaceful places all in one sitting, and do so without you ever moving a muscle or leaving the place where you sit, enjoy and listen to its call of a million beautiful notes... In other words, just enjoy the music and allow it to take you on the journey of its story. It will never hurt or harm you, and will always safely return you to where you started. But at the end of that journey you will be changed and transformed, because the mystery of music is just as mysterious as the mystery of life. Music indeed, comes from life itself... so it only makes sense that they share the same mystery don't you think? Peace be with you all.
" Bravissima ", c est le qualificatif qui me vient en tête. Sa voix est parfaite, en pleine harmonie. Casta diva est probablement l´air d´opéra considéré les plus difficiles chez les soprani ... À écouter en boucle ...
I envy that you have seen Dame Joan live. She is my absolute idol. I have never heard anything as beautiful as her voice, yet cannot imagine how much more astounding her gigantic voice must have been live. Thank you for your insightful comments!
THE GREATEST SOPRANO - COLORATURA, DRAMATIC- WHATEVER ..... of the 20th Century; The Milanese Fans at La Scala were quite right in the name they bestowed upon her - "LA STUPENDA".
No one sings this as beautifully. Her dynamics and beauty of tone are beyond compare. Her trills are sublime, light, delicate, completely on target. IMO Maria Callas screeches the ending and others completely obliterate many of the notes. She is perfect in every note.
Well, you can nit pick anything to death for whatever reason but Pavarotti said she had the greatest voice he ever heard and could be the greatest that ever lived. I would acquiesce to him and enjoy her voice.
+John OConnell IV Pavarotti did say that and more in the DVD "Sutherland the reluctant prima donna". But do you know that Zeffirelli, June Anderson, Horne, Milnes and Domingo had their superlatives for Joan too? And there was the quote from Serafin that you must watch the DVD to hear.
thank you for telling me. My voice teacher Vanessa Pace had Ms Sutherland as a mentor when she was trying to break in at The Met. I always have had an issue with critiquing anyones talent unless you have "been there and done that" I will look for the CD
John OConnell IV The recording I'm referring to is a DVD with video, not a CD, and a very good video at that. So you can watch how in awe Domingo and Zeffirelli was when they talked about Joan. They were emotional, beyond awe actually! As for Serafin's quote...let's just say he said Joan had the potential to be greater than Callas, and he barely spend any time with her at the Covent Garden Lucia. Serafin's influence to Callas' going the bel canto route is legendary and a long one. For Serafin to make that quote was very bold and surprising. I do have to tell you the DVD is very long. But it is in three parts on Ytube. You have to sit through 3 parts and by different posters. But you will love it because there are clips that have never been seen or heard. You would expect Richard and Horne to be her biggest supporters, but not really. It is Zeffirelli, Domingo and Pavarotti who gave the biggest superlatives that very few great operatic luminaries would say. And how many operatic superstars can eclipse Pavarotti, Zeffirelli and Domingo?
@@vettegaddia6234 Actually it her teacher at the Conservatory, Elvira de Hidaglio saw the potential in Maria’s voice, and trained her in bel canto. She said Maria “soaked it up like a sponge” But you’re right Serafin recognized Callas’s mastery of bel canto and was an early Mentor. Callas gave great credit to finding the emotions in a character & it was Serafin, who turned her career into a sensation, when in Venice’s Fenice Opera house and his I Puritani soprano got sick & he told Callas that she could sing Puritani, a role she never really studied, while at the same time she was singing Wagner’s Isolde at the Fenice- Maria trusted Serafin & sang both, which was incredible considering the roles required 2 totally different types of voices. Maria & Serafin did it & Callas became an Opera Star overnight ! 🎶
I was fortunate to see her perform this role on Norma at the Sydney Opera Hous back in 1982. She sent goos bumps up and down my spine. Dame Joan received at 10 minute standing ovation. I also saw her perform in La Traviata and Rigoletto. One of Australias` greatest sopranos next to Dame Joan Hammond.
Feliz cumple Joan!!! Dame Joan Alston Sutherland, OM, AC, DBE (Sídney, Australia, 7 de noviembre de 1926 - Les Avents, cerca de Montreux, Suiza, 10 de octubre de 2010 ) fue una soprano australiana de coloratura, notable por su contribución al renacimiento del bel canto desde finales de los años 50 hasta los años 80. Se retiró en 1990
here we go again, this is great singing and I was at one of the performances. Calls Caballe and Sutherland. How lucky we are to have heard them all. All fantastic for different reasons. If you are great there is a reason, you are different. They were all different and all great. Lets just enjoy, because if they were not so we would not be talking about them!
Well... no... because Callas performance, as her voice, and all her being, was just flawless and pure perfection. Sorry if I didn't write something right... :)
BBC's famous list of greatest sopranos picked by opera's best critics: 1) Maria Callas 2) Joan Sutherland 3) Victoria de los Angeles 4) Leontyne Price 5) Birgit Nilsson 6) Montserrat Caballé 7) Lucia Popp 8) Margaret Price 9) Kirsten Flagstad 10) Emma Kirkby 11) Elizabeth Schwarzkopf 12) Régine Crespin 13) Galina Vizhnevskaya 14) Gundula Janowitz 15) Karita Mattila 16) Elizabeth Schumann 17) Christine Brewer 18) Renata Tebaldi 19) Rosa Ponselle 20) Elly Ameling Comments?
I still and always maintain, that all the soprano's and mezzo sopranos who sang this song, Callas, Sills, Qerquetti, Sutherland, Flemming, and even Leontyne Price, all reached and attained the status of "Great Musicians". All sang their version of this song with equal beauty that surpassed all other vocalists in their class and at the time of their reign. They did not become great because they could sing, they became great because they could sing better than anyone around them. Music is a purely, personal choice, like it, love it, hate it, or whatever. I am glad to see some at least saying that they prefer one, or the other, but really don't like the people who are blatantly throwing criticism and injecting their biased and insulting views of the performers who sang this song. I have watched most of them and enjoyed each one for their talents. Only a couple did not appeal and I simply stopped watching because I chose not to finish viewing. My personal favorite is still Dame Joan Sutherland. She could sing it with beauty, poise and reached all the highest notes with ease, where the other songstresses struggled visibly to attain those difficult and challenging notes. It's true, she was no beauty to behold, but her voice was pure, true and a testament to her dedication to her gift. This applies to all gifted artists who sing this song. In other words, just watch and enjoy. Music is purely a personal preference and personal choice…
I was in the audience for 2 performances of this opera in Sydney. Sutherland's voice was amazing live in the theatre. A Lyrico spinto with a colatura top is rare as hen's teeth!. Although I have heard more beautiful tone from others, her ability to float and spin out a melody was never surpassed e. As far as I know she is the only soprano to sing "casta diva" in the original key in the theatre without it being lowered !!
EXTRAORDINÁRIA JOAN SUTHERLAND! UMA DIVA DA ÓPERA, UM SOPRANO ESPLÊNDIDO! QUANTA FALTA FAZ SUA VOZ PARA A CULTURA MUNDIAL! JÁ VÃO FAZER 6 ANOS DE SUA MORTE! STUPENDA! SUPERBA! I LOVE FOVERER!
Fantastic singing, gorgeous sound. I LOVE and adore Sutherland, but there is a certain 'matter-of-factness' about her singing here -- it seems to be more about technique and sound than emotion. She fares better in other operas where the beauty of her singing matters more than any depiction of emotion - in fact in those operas she is hard to beat. I just wish she could convey more feeling through the use of the wonderful instrument that she was born with. What a voice! And it was so huge!!
I was lucky enough to hear her twice - both times for free, at the "Opera in the Park" at the Domain in Sydney. A great privilege, and she was greatly loved.
Sie "GLÜCKLICHER"!
What was special that no one seems to comment on, is that Sutherland sang this in the original key of G. All other sang in down one note, in F.
I did not know this. Thank you.😇 Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. Extremely good. Live long and prosper.
I love Joan Sutherland to death, but she didn't sing this one in the key of G. This performance is clearly in F, she only goes up to a Bb5. If it were in G, she would go up to a C6. If you want to hear her Casta Diva in G, look up her 1964 Norma Bell Telephone Hour.
Unlimited power in that voice!
Never again will we hear/see the like of this wonderful lady ever
never, never ever.
Sutherland was one of the greatest sopranos to ever grace an opera stage. Her legacy is secure. May she RIP.
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. Extremely good. Live long and prosper.
I dont get why many of Sutherland's recordings have so small volume, whereas she possessed one of the most enormous voices ever
Poor recording equipment and orchestras that play too loud! I played opera in an orchestra for 47 years… orchestra generally play too loud
@@vic-iv2ff Leaning something new every day.
It shatters my heart that she is gone. I don't think I will ever get over it. I love her voice and her presence on stage. She signs the autographs with so much love that I feel she thinks everyone is special. She is beautiful inside and out and everything else. Everyone else should step aside to honor this great lady. No one is in her level, not even close.
This (or at least a different performance in the same season) was the first opera I attended.
I took my mum who, despite being a lifelong opera lover, had never seen Joan on stage.
Joan came out, planted her feet and began this aria, filling the theatre with that majestic voice.
That was it for me, I've been hooked ever since.
Joan looks beautiful here doesn't she? She sings, as always, with a steady perfection. What a sad loss to the world of opera her passing is.
You sang for us, and enriched our lives beyond imagination. Now, may flights of angels sing for you. Rest in peace Great Lady, with our eternal gratitude.
I can't even believe the voice-I heard it live in this at MET w/ Horne in 1970.
It was overwhelming.
She had sung w/ Indpls Symphony a concert at Clowes Hall in Jan.same year- amazing! truly the voice of the century. may she rest in peace. Chorus Master- Indpls Opera
What a crystal soprano! I like Callas - it has more "life", but this one is so crystal and soft at the same time - fantastic!
What a voice! She and Callas were in a league of their own. Please, let's not compare the two. They were both incredible opera singers and I don't think one was better than the other. They were both terrific. R.I.P. Joan Sutherland.
Coincido cien por ciento.
Let's not compare them to all the other equally good singers. lol
I miss her both!
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. Extremely good. Live long and prosper.
Monserrat is in a league of her own
For me this is such a performance that no words can describe it. Joan was one of the best ever not only as an artist but as person. I love Angela Gheorghiu and Elina Garanca but Joan is part of my DNA. My father's love of her performances when I was a mere toddler, embedded classics in my being. May she rest in peace surrounded by a choir of a billion angels.
It's sad that everybody talks about music as a combination of techniques and comparisons, each singer has his or her own way to perform and it doesn't mean that somebody is the best performer....Callas is great, Sutherland is great, Fleming is great (have you guys heard her performance of Casta Diva)...musicians are made to be enjoyed, not to be critisized.
Alejandro Moreno Fleming is horrible
Alejandro Moreno what's sad is how far singing has declined. Thinking as you do is part of the problem. I know you mean well, and you're partly correct, but if you think Fleming is anywhere in the same class as the other 2 you mention, you don't understand or have the knowledge of the art form to be able to hear how far the art form has fallen. And singing will continue to decline even further
Once can analyze and appreciate. They are not mutually exclusive.
I agree with the selection of all the singers you said. They have a great technique of expression and they put hearts in it and that is the essence of beautiful art
This is the single greatest problem with recordings: it creates armchair critics who spend more time listening to recordings that attending live performances, and think they know better.
Absolutely marvellous - performance like this clearly shows why she was such a operatic mega-star ...outstanding!
I am sad to hear of her passing. Wonderful voice, Lovely woman, very modest and kind.
I actually met her at an antiques fair in Hatfield many years ago and spoke with her at length. No one to compare her to. The very finest of our time.
I enjoy the different musicians that I have heard over many years, from Pavarotti, to to Maria Callas to Beverly Sills, and all other musicians whether they be classical musicians of an orchestra, or vocal and operatic stars. All have, or had gorgeous singing voices and gifts, each with his or her on unique singing and musical ability. I find and place no judgement on any of them, regardless of their gift. It is there for all to hear and enjoy. I personally become annoyed with people offering personal opinions that demean and belittle musicians and their abilities. As some have said, it is all a matter of personal preference.
Having said that, I happen to love this version of the "Norma Opera" and this rendition of Casta Diva as sung by Dame Joan Sutherland. She sings the song with grace and exceptional vocal control that I have never really heard from other vocal musicians in her class. Her vocal ability is well honed over many years of dedication and devotion to her singing. Her vocal control often exceeds many well known and established female opera stars. Her intelligence was well balanced with her gift and she shared them both freely and without judgement... Watch her "1995 Master Class" video. Her passing meant the silencing of a rare and precious jewel, just as it did Madam Maria Callas and Beverly Sills, precious and beautiful gifts to the world of music and the beauty they brought to us all. Treasure them and the memories these videos bring into our lives... I do.
I am not arguing with anybody maybe I should of kept it to myself. it was just my simple opinion, to me her performance is flawless, she controls her voice in a manner no other performer does it at any octave range, I respect everybody else's personal tastes. I came here to enjoy her divine singing,
It's OK to analyze. That is how excellence is determined.
Sing forever "La Stupenda"....great duets with Mr.Pavarotti will now fill up the concert halls of heaven....You were never a diva,but a singer!
I must admit that most of them have beautiful voices, but Joan Sutherland is my favourite. But they all are unique. I miss her.
She's my favorite too
She is mine too.
She is my favorite too
Our queen 💐
Aquí me uno a todos los seguidores y admiradores de esta inigualable intérprete una Artista que supo poner el nombre de una de las artes más completa la ópera en el podigo más alto su voz y su presencia Escénica dejaron un gran legado para las nuevas y futuras generaciones señores aquí hay una deslumbrante genio del mundo del Canto Lírico desde Madrid un admirador y seguidor de esta gran Dama mis saludos y agradecimiento por subir este vídeo
In 1985 when she was in her mid-50's Dame Joan came to Washington and performed Anna Bolena in a concert version of the opera at The Kennedy Center Concert Hall. It was the one and only time I saw her live. It was a revelation, the strength and beauty of her voice was something to just experience. Viva La Stupenda!!!
After a second listening, i have to admit that she is wonderfull ! Her voice is perfect.
This was my favourite Casta Diva, absolutely fantastic, but I have found Caballe's 1974 Orange performance, which shades even this amazing performance. Thank you Joan for lighting the World with your beautiful voice.
Caballé Orange 1974 was and will remain something unique and unreachable for many reasons. Something magic happened that evening. Thank God it was recorded and today we can enjoy it.
+Yuri Zivago Caballe in Orange is Opera. The best Casta Diva in the human history.
I was absolutely blown away by that Orange performance!! She shows her true artistry in that one!!
Sutherland insisted that Caballé should assume Norma as a very flattering role, and Caballé responded that he had never wanted to study it because she was a lyric with coloratura, but not a natural coloratura. Which would not be his surprise when the Sutherland showed him the original score and found that the vast majority of these coloraturas did not exist. In the face of Caballé 's astonishment, Sutherland retorted, "Montsy, my dear, I do with her what is best given to me, do you what is best for you "
Please check the same Casta Diva in the superb voice of Leonidas Miklos...what a stunning surprise !!!
Maria Callas in 1958 and Monserrat Caballe 1974 , the Bests Casta Diva. Sublimes!!!
Agree
Bravissima!!!!!!!!!! Excellent legato technique, nice quiet breathing, great dynamics and artistry, as well as wonderful even sound and trill.
So you enjoyed it?!
Never got to actually experience "live" performances, but listened (and still do) avidly to her recordings, and now the videos that have been so graciously provided conntinue to uplift the spirit. Yes, she "was a miraculous opera singer, to be sure." Meetng her several years ago here in San Francisco @ the North Beach Tower Records was a joyful experience! She was the greatest of them all!
Wow! What an unforgetable experience.
0:00 , 1:25
I was fortunate to see and hear one of her final performances before she retired. I will never forget it.
I still miss her so much.
The instrument. The voice. That and the Pyramids...timeless and awe inspiring. Everything else I brush aside.
I am enjoying seeing so many lovely and loving comments about the Late, Great, Dame Joan Sutherland. There have been many who criticized her singing. Often uneducated people with closed minded and heavily biased opinion. But it's exciting seeing that so many people stepped forward to offer their thoughts about this amazing woman.
I watched her speaking publicly a few times online and on television. To hear her speak, you would never guess she had the singing voice with the vocal power she possessed. I've seen many and heard many a soprano and mezzo-soprano. I've never heard a single one who could reach the high notes that she reached with such masterful ease. It isn't to say there aren't any that can reach the same notes that she was able to, there are. But when required to reach the highest notes in any piece of operatic music, you can see the performers struggling and putting a great effort just to reach the notes. Those same notes that Dame Sutherland reached so effortlessly. What so many people might not be aware of, is her height. She was a towering figure of a woman and stood over 6'2" tall... Yet another amazing tidbit about an amazing musical gift to the world.
I wrote the following post just over 5 years ago after seeing some harsh criticism of Ms Sutherland. I figured it's time to perhaps share it again:
My old Post:
still and always maintain, that all the soprano's and mezzo sopranos who sang this song, Callas, Sills, Qerquetti, Sutherland, Flemming, and even Leontyne Price, all reached and attained the status of "Great Musicians". All sang their version of this song with equal beauty that surpassed all other vocalists in their class and at the time of their reign. They did not become great because they could sing, they became great because they could sing better than anyone around them.
Music is a purely, personal choice, like it, love it, hate it, or whatever. I am glad to see some at least saying that they prefer one, or the other, but really don't like the people who are blatantly throwing criticism and injecting their biased and insulting views of the performers who sang this song. I have watched most of them and enjoyed each one for their talents. Only a couple did not appeal and I simply stopped watching because I chose not to finish viewing.
My personal favorite is still Dame Joan Sutherland. She could sing it with beauty, poise and reached all the highest notes with ease, where the other songstresses struggled visibly to attain those difficult and challenging notes. It's true, she was no beauty to behold, but her voice was pure, true and a testament to her dedication to her gift. This applies to all gifted artists who sing this song. In other words, just watch and enjoy. Music is purely a personal preference and personal choice…
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On a short side note, I filmed, produced and created a short PSA style video. I hope you will watch after enjoying hearing and watching Ms Sutherland's performance again. Here is the link: th-cam.com/video/u5NRRvjrG78/w-d-xo.html
I loved your post :)
She was a Goddess, period 🙂
Her voice was so multi dimensional its unreal, she could be soft and gentle, powerful and almost destructive and more importantly she had a natural sonic beauty in her voice! She could touch your soul! Brilliant stuff, thanks for uploading ;-)
I have watched many a musician, soprano & Mezzo soprano alike, sing their rendition of this song "Casta Diva." None of them have the vocal fortitude that Dame Joan Sutherland had. She sang, accentuated, emphasized even the smallest note, so that each note is, or rather was, sung clearly without being carried, or blended into the next note. Her vocal prowess is truly remarkable. She reached the highest notes in this song and made it look so effortless. While every other soprano and mezzo-soprano struggled to reach the upper notes, she sang them as if sailing on the wind and was able to reach the high notes in a manner that belies the supreme effort and skill it takes to sing this song. Her falsetto is, or rather was, unmatched and I have never heard any soprano sing it as she does in this and previous performances… Amazing, remarkable, stupendous. In short, Bravo!!!, Bravo!!!, Bravo!!! I wish I could have had the honor and pleasure of seeing her perform live. I must content myself with watching this video. It is my favorite. I'm no music critic, I offer no professional critique, I just know what I like. After all, isn't that what listening to music is supposed to be about???
And I like Sutherland, Callas, and Caballe as Norma. Do you have a problem with that?
I like Callas. She added the crucial elements to Opera, Emotions & Acting. 💔 in Voice & Performance. 💯
I love Joan Sutherland’s voice her voice is so beautiful and so pure and sweet.
Had the luck to see Dame Joan in Lucia Delamamour in 1974.She was awesome
I’m jealous :)
I love her recorded version on her Greatest Hits CD. She sings a C6 instead of a Bb5 on the CD and it is a lot fuller with more volume. Her control over her volume is amazing too. (On her recorded version) I especially love when she sings forte at the high notes and then just like that is back to pianissimo to crescendo down. I just love Joan Sutherland and I believe if you listen to her recorded version, you will possibly agree that she sings this better than anyone else. Her control, and purity of her voice just makes my heart melt.
Good for your heart ♥️ I myself prefer not to dissect an Aria, but to have it break my Heart 💔
Thus Callas……❤️💔❤️🩹
It is correct !!! The best CASTA DIVA !!!
One of my all time favorites sopranos. A human wonder with a angel voice...
I was privileged to her in 4 live performances in the 70’s and 80!s!!!
Saw her live in newcastle many years ago. Goosebumps. So emotional a once in a lifetim experience.
Gorgeous! What a wonderful treat to hear this.
i knew and heard of her 30 yrs ago but i only really hear her sung now,,,,i am one of fallen now brought up by her voices,,, i am so shame to miss last three decades,,,,hope the dislikes will in decades wake up like me once,,,,,,,,thanks to this posting.great of you.
when Joan sings I feel that the world is not as nightmarish as it normally seems. She redeems it. I can go on. Goddess.
Only constant rehearsal can produce such a seemingly effortless performance. Always in control. You know their is more there and she teases you with it. What she gives is enough.
R.I.P Dame Joan. Thanks for all the wonderful performances!
Brilliant one off the Greatest canto voice off all time
+paulette zonneveld Totally agree with you. Saw Dame Joan perform many times at the Sydney Opera House . A wonderful woman who kept both feet well and truly grounded and was polite and courteous to all people .A sad loss for Australia.
j'ai eu le privilège de voir Norma avec Sutherland à la Scala ; Quel grand moment !!
Maria's version and her timber for me and probably for many is more sublime than Joan's, but everything is up to personal taste. Lets just enjoy this divine singing!
Joan Sutherland is one of the most important opera performers of 20th century among Maria Callas, Monserrat Caballé,Leontyne Price and others.
Some people here they know the value of voice some are not. Some really know the operatic techniques, most of they have No Idea. Just listen. Please if you Don't know about Don't write silly comments...Thank you.
I AGREE
Yes. I know little about music & don’t notice faults, but I trust my emotions- so Callas 💯
The most majestic voice I have ever heard. May she rest in peace
+Juliet Horne Listen to everything from her, your generation need to keep coloratura alive. A world without that beauty would be sad.
I agree. I hate the idea that opera isn't 'cool' or anything. This video reminds me of my Nan, she used to always play Joan Sutherland on her radio until she died:)
La única, la estupenda.
Vive por siempre
Was in the audience many many years ago to see an opera and was amazed at her performance …. So new to opera had no idea who she was…..what a stage presence!
No matter how many times I have listened to this song and enjoyed this video, I am still left with a profound sense of awe. The mastery of the composition of Vincenzo Bellini is simply superb, and the beauty of how it is rendered and sung by Dame Joan Sutherland is simply without words, although I've written plenty of words about it.
This remains and always will be, my most favorite of all the performances I have seen and heard of this movement of "Casta Diva" from the Opera "Norma" by "Vincenzo Bellini." I appreciate how many have stepped forward in support of it, although I fail to understand how "Being Gay" has anything to do with this video or any of its content. The topic is about music, and in particular, this beautiful rendition of Casta Diva as performed and sung by the late great "Dame Joan Sutherland." The world lost a truly magnificent beauty when her voice was finally silenced forever and the music world sadly mourned her passing. But she left rare and beautiful treasures for all to enjoy.
There are those who may not care for her and I've seen comments from uninformed individuals who chose to interject their strongly biased opinions and interjected harsh criticism against Ms Sutherland's performance. Alas, those few are woefully uneducated in music and don't understand music nearly as well as they obviously believe that they do.
Regardless, those of us who love this recording and Dame Joan Sutherland are blessed with this lasting treasure that is a testament of hers and every other songstress's musical prowess, who sang this piece. And regarding music, I maintain always that "Music Is Arbitrary. It is subject to the whim of those who listen to it." You either like it, love it or hate it. But regardless of you as an individual, it is your personal feelings that makes music what it is to you. No 2 people shares the same exact feeling for any music, and there will always be those who like it, those who love it and those who hate it regardless of what kind of music it happens to be. That is what I mean when I say "Music Is Arbitrary and is subject to the Whim of those who listen to it.
I understand music. I grew up around music. I've heard music from around the world and have found beauty in almost every single type, kind and genera of music no matter where it comes from. As for the music of today...? Well, that is another matter entirely that can be discussed at another time. I played in bands in school, sang in choirs in school and in church. I studied music and learned about "Music Appreciation" because I love music in most of its forms... most, but not all. I am human after all and have my shortcomings, likes, and dislikes. Much like the rest of you who loves listening to music. After all, there is magic in the world of music. Music and great storytelling has the power to carry you beyond the realms of this world, and transport you to amazing, dramatic, beautiful and peaceful places all in one sitting, and do so without you ever moving a muscle or leaving the place where you sit, enjoy and listen to its call of a million beautiful notes...
In other words, just enjoy the music and allow it to take you on the journey of its story. It will never hurt or harm you, and will always safely return you to where you started. But at the end of that journey you will be changed and transformed, because the mystery of music is just as mysterious as the mystery of life. Music indeed, comes from life itself... so it only makes sense that they share the same mystery don't you think? Peace be with you all.
" Bravissima ", c est le qualificatif qui me vient en tête. Sa voix est parfaite, en pleine harmonie. Casta diva est probablement l´air d´opéra considéré les plus difficiles chez les soprani ... À écouter en boucle ...
Очень красивый голос! Интересно слушать одну арию в исполнение совершенно разных по характеру певиц.
When something is so beautiful, it is unfortunate that some waste the moment by looking for faults. She is absolutely wonderful, a gift to us.
Before I read any of the comments I told myself, “get ready for the Callas/Sutherland fights.”😂 It took around .0005 seconds to find one hahaha
Callas and Sutherland never feuded with each other. But Callas and Tebaldi? Like boxers in the ring.
@@SymphonyBrahms Haha I meant the fans, not the singers themselves.
@@devoncohen1039 And the fans are far worse than the singers.
yeh, too many bananas around:)
For this song, the best, rich powerful voice stamps her authority and owns it.
Jagdtoq I completely agree with you this is Joan's aria
I envy that you have seen Dame Joan live. She is my absolute idol. I have never heard anything as beautiful as her voice, yet cannot imagine how much more astounding her gigantic voice must have been live. Thank you for your insightful comments!
Goosebumps. What a voice!
La voz más perfecta que ha existido!!
WOW! That is Absolutely Beautiful...
THE GREATEST SOPRANO - COLORATURA, DRAMATIC- WHATEVER ..... of the 20th Century; The Milanese Fans at La Scala were quite right in the name they bestowed upon her - "LA STUPENDA".
No one sings this as beautifully. Her dynamics and beauty of tone are beyond compare. Her trills are sublime, light, delicate, completely on target. IMO Maria Callas screeches the ending and others completely obliterate many of the notes. She is perfect in every note.
Callas never screeched. You have a hearing problem. And a bias problem.
Well, you can nit pick anything to death for whatever reason but Pavarotti said she had the greatest voice he ever heard and could be the greatest that ever lived. I would acquiesce to him and enjoy her voice.
+John OConnell IV Pavarotti did say that and more in the DVD "Sutherland the reluctant prima donna". But do you know that Zeffirelli, June Anderson, Horne, Milnes and Domingo had their superlatives for Joan too? And there was the quote from Serafin that you must watch the DVD to hear.
thank you for telling me. My voice teacher Vanessa Pace had Ms Sutherland as a mentor when she was trying to break in at The Met. I always have had an issue with critiquing anyones talent unless you have "been there and done that" I will look for the CD
John OConnell IV The recording I'm referring to is a DVD with video, not a CD, and a very good video at that. So you can watch how in awe Domingo and Zeffirelli was when they talked about Joan. They were emotional, beyond awe actually! As for Serafin's quote...let's just say he said Joan had the potential to be greater than Callas, and he barely spend any time with her at the Covent Garden Lucia. Serafin's influence to Callas' going the bel canto route is legendary and a long one. For Serafin to make that quote was very bold and surprising.
I do have to tell you the DVD is very long. But it is in three parts on Ytube. You have to sit through 3 parts and by different posters. But you will love it because there are clips that have never been seen or heard.
You would expect Richard and Horne to be her biggest supporters, but not really. It is Zeffirelli, Domingo and Pavarotti who gave the biggest superlatives that very few great operatic luminaries would say.
And how many operatic superstars can eclipse Pavarotti, Zeffirelli and Domingo?
@@vettegaddia6234 Actually it her teacher at the Conservatory, Elvira de Hidaglio saw the potential in Maria’s voice, and trained her in bel canto. She said Maria “soaked it up like a sponge” But you’re right Serafin recognized Callas’s mastery of bel canto and was an early Mentor. Callas gave great credit to finding the emotions in a character & it was Serafin, who turned her career into a sensation, when in Venice’s Fenice Opera house and his I Puritani soprano got sick & he told Callas that she could sing Puritani, a role she never really studied, while at the same time she was singing Wagner’s Isolde at the Fenice- Maria trusted Serafin & sang both, which was incredible considering the roles required 2 totally different types of voices. Maria & Serafin did it & Callas became an Opera Star overnight ! 🎶
I was fortunate to see her perform this role on Norma at the Sydney Opera Hous back in 1982. She sent goos bumps up and down my spine. Dame Joan received at 10 minute standing ovation. I also saw her perform in La Traviata and Rigoletto. One of Australias` greatest sopranos next to Dame Joan Hammond.
Feliz cumple Joan!!!
Dame Joan Alston Sutherland, OM, AC, DBE (Sídney, Australia, 7 de noviembre de 1926 - Les Avents, cerca de Montreux, Suiza, 10 de octubre de 2010 ) fue una soprano australiana de coloratura, notable por su contribución al renacimiento del bel canto desde finales de los años 50 hasta los años 80. Se retiró en 1990
Sutherland .., a lovely singer, woman and human being.
here we go again, this is great singing and I was at one of the performances. Calls Caballe and Sutherland. How lucky we are to have heard them all. All fantastic for different reasons. If you are great there is a reason, you are different. They were all different and all great. Lets just enjoy, because if they were not so we would not be talking about them!
Beautiful performance!
Thanks for posting.:)
I find voices like flowers and everyone has their favorites...no need to argue over who is better...each brings a different flavor to the world.
Bel canto amazement. Wish I could have listened live to a performance!
La sign... Sutherland. ,straordinaria ,straordinaria ,in Casta diva e' sublime!!!!!!! Mari
Well... no... because Callas performance, as her voice, and all her being, was just flawless and pure perfection. Sorry if I didn't write something right... :)
She’s wonderful. This made my night.
Pure beauty of tone + perfect control = La Stupenda, the greatest voice of her era and ours too.
My muse, I love her
Beautiful and great !
Beautiful singing ! Thanks for posting :)
She seems so effortless in nailing what is a very demanding aria - the mark of greatness....
Une interprétation exceptionnelle !
BBC's famous list of greatest sopranos picked by opera's best critics:
1) Maria Callas
2) Joan Sutherland
3) Victoria de los Angeles
4) Leontyne Price
5) Birgit Nilsson
6) Montserrat Caballé
7) Lucia Popp
8) Margaret Price
9) Kirsten Flagstad
10) Emma Kirkby
11) Elizabeth Schwarzkopf
12) Régine Crespin
13) Galina Vizhnevskaya
14) Gundula Janowitz
15) Karita Mattila
16) Elizabeth Schumann
17) Christine Brewer
18) Renata Tebaldi
19) Rosa Ponselle
20) Elly Ameling
Comments?
She was a super star among stars! I will love her voice forever!
La Sutherland ha una delle più grandi voci del canto lirico!!! 🔥💕💫
@Barone Vitellio Scarpia Un soprano drammatico di coloratura, se non mi sbaglio
I still and always maintain, that all the soprano's and mezzo sopranos who sang this song, Callas, Sills, Qerquetti, Sutherland, Flemming, and even Leontyne Price, all reached and attained the status of "Great Musicians". All sang their version of this song with equal beauty that surpassed all other vocalists in their class and at the time of their reign. They did not become great because they could sing, they became great because they could sing better than anyone around them.
Music is a purely, personal choice, like it, love it, hate it, or whatever. I am glad to see some at least saying that they prefer one, or the other, but really don't like the people who are blatantly throwing criticism and injecting their biased and insulting views of the performers who sang this song. I have watched most of them and enjoyed each one for their talents. Only a couple did not appeal and I simply stopped watching because I chose not to finish viewing.
My personal favorite is still Dame Joan Sutherland. She could sing it with beauty, poise and reached all the highest notes with ease, where the other songstresses struggled visibly to attain those difficult and challenging notes. It's true, she was no beauty to behold, but her voice was pure, true and a testament to her dedication to her gift. This applies to all gifted artists who sing this song. In other words, just watch and enjoy. Music is purely a personal preference and personal choice…
I myself prefer Beauty plus emotions, thus Callas. But yes it is personal to all….🎶
Loved Joan Sutherland's voice, thanks for posting this treat!
Quelle joie d’écouter Joan extraordinaire chanteuse bravo
Love this and her voice is incredible
Her vocal control at the end....astounding
excelente versión.. gracias Joan donde quieras que estes
I was in the audience for 2 performances of this opera in Sydney. Sutherland's voice was amazing live in the theatre. A Lyrico spinto with a colatura top is rare as hen's teeth!. Although I have heard more beautiful tone from others, her ability to float and spin out a melody was never surpassed e. As far as I know she is the only soprano to sing "casta diva" in the original key in the theatre without it being lowered !!
Callas also sang it so in at least two productions that we know of. Unfortunately never recorded.
Cata Diva é das mais belas arias do canto operístico. Sutherland a interpretou muito bem.
such beauty and grace and power! I love it
EXTRAORDINÁRIA JOAN SUTHERLAND! UMA DIVA DA ÓPERA, UM SOPRANO ESPLÊNDIDO! QUANTA FALTA FAZ SUA VOZ PARA A CULTURA MUNDIAL! JÁ VÃO FAZER 6 ANOS DE SUA MORTE! STUPENDA! SUPERBA! I LOVE FOVERER!
Diva, te amo, tu voz es cristal, muy bella, se feliz donde quieras que estés y gracias,muchas gracias
Most spectacular interpretation of this aria by anyone, ever.
She just seemed to make it all sound effortless, and doing it with the most beautiful voice that I have ever heard!
This legend has one of [if not the] most beautiful and controlled trills in the history of opera.. just wanted to let this out there ^.^
A voice as pure as her's will echo forever. We'll miss you Dame Joan Sutherland. Thank you.
Maravillosa!! Una voz desde el cielo 🪽 Desde México!! 🇲🇽
Totalmente de acuerdo, su voz nunca desaparecerá. Descanse en Paz y gracias por deleitarnos con esa magnífica voz
Fantastic singing, gorgeous sound. I LOVE and adore Sutherland, but there is a certain 'matter-of-factness' about her singing here -- it seems to be more about technique and sound than emotion. She fares better in other operas where the beauty of her singing matters more than any depiction of emotion - in fact in those operas she is hard to beat. I just wish she could convey more feeling through the use of the wonderful instrument that she was born with. What a voice! And it was so huge!!