Giuseppe Valdengo

Giuseppe Valdengo was an Italian operatic baritone who became one of the standout voices in mid-20th-century opera, particularly celebrated for his powerhouse performances in Verdi and Mozart roles. Born in Turin in 1912, he rose to fame post-World War II, earning acclaim for his rich, expressive voice and dramatic intensity. Valdengo’s career hit its stride through collaborations with legendary conductor Arturo Toscanini, including iconic RCA recordings of *Falstaff* and *Otello*, which remain reference versions for opera fans. He shone in complex characters like Iago (*Otello*), Ford (*Falstaff*), and Figaro (*Le nozze di Figaro*), blending vocal agility with sharp theatricality.

Though he performed at major houses like La Scala and the Metropolitan Opera, Valdengo’s legacy lives loudest through his studio and live recordings, many reissued in collections like *Il mito dell’opera* and *Lebendige Vergangenheit*. His interpretations of Verdi’s antiheroes and Mozart’s witty baritone roles still captivate listeners, proving why he’s regarded as a golden-age great. Valdengo passed away in 2007, leaving behind a treasure trove of performances that keep his artistry alive for new generations of opera lovers.

Genres

Opera

Latest Release

Verdi: Aïda

Giuseppe Verdi•

Giuseppe Valdengo•

Arturo Toscanini

Album - 31 Tracks - Released July 29, 2016