This performance by Anita Rachvelishvili I will never forget as it is likely the only time I’ve heard it sung with the dynamics as written. And, oh yes, heard Flo back in her day and Dolora later on amongst others.

The reason prompting me to recall her to mind in this wonderful performance, along with those of her thrilling Principessa di Bouillon and her glamorous and opulently sung Dalila, (seen four times!), is because, just now, I’ve returned from Carnegie Hall in which she sang a few songs from a Zorba score, with the Greek National Opera. Sigh. (More about this debacle later.)

Last time I heard her sing at Carnegie, maybe ten years ago(?), it was singing The Songs and Dances of Death like a house on fire. I am trying to remember her glory days now since she was, simply, glorious.

Sic transit gloria canorum