Vesti la giubba

Back in the 1920s, the Vitaphone unit of Warner Brothers used their New York location to test out new sound film equipment. And, since they were in New York, they often featured Vaudeville, Broadway and Metropolitan Opera stars...which is great as many would have become totally forgotten over time if it weren't for the films.

Here, Giovanni Martinelli of the Met sings from "I Pagliacci", an opera by Ruggero Leoncavallo. Unlike some Vitaphone shorts, the set for this one is pretty good (though odd for "I Pagliacci") and the sound quality outstanding. While I've never heard of Martinelli before this, the recording did allow you to see and hear his amazing talents. Well worth seeing...particularly if you are an opera enthusiast.