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I couldn't wait to see which singer you had picked out. LOL April fools! But this is truly lovely. Thank you for posting this gem.

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Linda, I hadn't considered it being April Fool's day, but it would have been a very difficult decision. I suppose Callas set the standard in a way and June Anderson did a lovely tribute to Callas with a superb performance, none really audiophile uploads, but certainly of archival interest. Aida Garifullina has at least three performances on YouTube; and one of them, the earlier one, is divine.

There are several piano versions as well, but the one I chose seems to include the gong. It becomes inspired and elevating which seemed to reflect our current times and our prayers for peaceful solutions to all the troubles on Earth.

As an afterthought, I am continually amazed that the libretto is as relevant to our times as it was in historic times. It's a very powerful opera. I am sure you agree.

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