24 July 2011 marks what would have been the 90th birthday of Giuseppe di Stefano (died 3 March 2008). Di Stefano’s long career began with his operatic debut in 1946 at Reggio Emilia when he sang Des Grieux in Massenet’s Manon; his last operatic role was as the Emperor in Turandot in July 1992.

Di Stefano is best remembered for his musical partnership with Maria Callas and many recordings; it was Di Stefano who partnered Callas on her last concert tour in 1973/74.

This set brings together Di Stefano’s three recital records and L’elisir d’amore recorded for Decca between 1955-64. The bonus tracks included on CD 2 were originally released as an EP and only included on the American version of the LP. All tracks are remastered from the original analogue tapes.

The discs in this anniversary set are housed in replicas of the original LP sleeves.

The booklet includes a new appreciation of Di Stefano by opera writer and critic George Hall.

Synopsis of L'elisir d'amore is also included.