BBC broadcast, 28 October 1966; repeated 16 January 1967
In late 2002, I received three cassette copies of various recordings of Tom Jones. One was a BBC broadcast (which was of a commercial recording), the second a complete performance, and this one, squeezed on to a tape with another recording of the opera. (possibly the Vitner recording.)
Thanks to correspondents Richard Duployen and Robert Morrison, I have been able to identify this recording. It is most definitely the Rita Williams Singers, an ensemble that did other musicals on record (such as Show Boat). The performances are, for the most part, pretty good. Ian Wallace provides a narration (presumably as Squire Western) to keep the plot together. The following selections are included:
- "Don't you find the weather charming?"
- "On a Januairy Morning"
- "West Country Lad"
- "Today my spinet"
- "Here's a paradox for lovers"
- "For aye, my love"
- "Hurry, bustle!"
- "Dream o'day Jill"
- "Gurt Uncle Jan Tappit" (first two verses only with no jig)
- "My Lady's Coach"
- "You have a pretty wit"
- "Where be my daughter?" (Act 2 Finale)
- "All for a green ribbon"
- "If Love's Content"
- "For tonight, let me dream"
- "Hark, the merry marriage bells" (Act 3 Finale)
