Karen,
Re. your delving into Traviata, have you come across the English National Opera's recording in English from the early 80's? Violetta is Valerie Masterson, who was a great favourite in the UK and on the continent, especially in French repertoire. For my money, her reading of Vi is just right. She has a fragile and very beautiful voice, which, in the theatre was very telling.
If you can't get it, I will happily copy it for you to give you an idea. That bit when Alf thows the money at her is one of the most heart-rending things I've ever heard!! She sings with this thin, almost girlish sound, and she sounds as if her heart really is breaking!! Marvellous stuff!! A friend of mine, who's heard the record for nearly 20 years, still has to reach for her hanky!!!
Best wishes,
Ian Voice wrecker to the stars!
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