{"title":"Agnes Baltsa \u0026 René Kollo","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-kollo-hoffman-siepi","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Kollo, Hoffman, Siepi, Kerns, Pernstorfer; Vanderzand.  Wien, 1971","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe highlight of this performance of \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e is the Gurnemanz portrayed by \u003cstrong\u003eCesare Siepi\u003c\/strong\u003e. Siepi brings elegant tone and a sublime sense of phrasing to the role, and his command of the German text is surprisingly convincing. However, he occasionally struggles to stay in sync with the conductor, though the prompter skillfully brings him back on track. \u003cstrong\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/strong\u003e excels in this performance, combining tonal purity with dramatic intensity. \u003cstrong\u003eGrace Hoffman's\u003c\/strong\u003e sumptuous portrayal of Kundry is remarkable, while \u003cstrong\u003eCharles Vanderzand\u003c\/strong\u003e offers intriguing insights into the score.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNEW MASTER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e- \u003c\/strong\u003ePitch corrected, sound restored\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10022-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292665233544,"sku":"10022-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099231876,"sku":"MP3 10022-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":49907513459009,"sku":"10022-4FLAC","price":13.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10022-4front.jpg?v=1751037283"},{"product_id":"wagner-lohengrin-kollo-bode-dvorakova-mcintyre-crass","title":"Wagner: Lohengrin - Kollo, Bode, Dvorakova, McIntyre, Crass, Wixell; Varviso,  Bayreuth, 1971","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nHeinrich der Vogler – \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Crass\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLohengrin – \u003cstrong\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nElsa von Brabant – \u003cstrong\u003eHannelore Bode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFriedrich von Telramund – \u003cstrong\u003eDonald Mcintyre\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nOrtrud – \u003cstrong\u003eLudmila Dvorakova\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDer Heerrufer des Königs – \u003cstrong\u003eIngvar Wixell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVier Edle – \u003cstrong\u003eHeribert Steinbach\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVier Edle – \u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Zednik\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVier Edle – \u003cstrong\u003eRudolf Hartmann-Gniffke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVier Edle – \u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Feldhoff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eBayreuther Festspiele\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly 25, 1971\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eSilvio Varviso\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10267-3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292657533064,"sku":"10267-3","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Wagner-Richard_1c452c28-c74b-4df6-a40c-2d7a20f9e335.png?v=1782510091"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-bailey-kmentt-dernesch","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Bailey, Dernesch, Kmentt, Martin, Ridderbusch, Hemsley; Klobucar.  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Her middle register is beautifully colored, and she navigates the challenging tessitura of her aria with ease. \u003cstrong\u003eWaldemar Kmentt’s\u003c\/strong\u003e Walther leans more toward Don Ottavio than Siegfried, which, in my opinion, is a definite advantage. His rendition of the Preislied is sublime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sound quality is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10298-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292656484488,"sku":"10298-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099189188,"sku":"MP3 10298-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10298-4front.jpg?v=1751037075"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-fliegende-hollander-rysanek-mcintyre-talvela-cox-kollo-varviso","title":"Wagner: Der fliegende Holländer - McIntyre, Rysanek, Talvela, Cox, Kollo; Varviso.  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The sound quality is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10713-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292636856456,"sku":"10713-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099167684,"sku":"MP3 10713-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10713-2front_148794e0-5ee3-4ee4-9468-559ca609d105.jpg?v=1751036612"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-kollo-jones-mcintyre-keleman-schwarz-boulez","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Kollo, Zednik, Jones, McIntyre, Kéléman, Rundgren, Schwarz; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most notable and welcome additions to the cast of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e during this production’s debut was René Kollo in the title role. Kollo’s voice effortlessly meets both the lyrical and dramatic demands of the role, something Manfred Jung - who took over the role for the recording - couldn’t quite achieve. Gwyneth Jones also shines brighter here than in the later revival, treating the audience to some stunning high Cs that could easily rival those of Nilsson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDonald McIntyre delivers a standout performance, appearing more at ease as the Wanderer than in any other opera of the cycle. Heinz Zednik is superb as Mime, bringing depth and precision to the character. The sound quality is excellent, adding to the overall experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf note, this performance had its share of audience drama. The anti-Chéreau contingent was out in force, with one particularly vocal dissenter bringing a whistle and cheekily accompanying Siegfried’s reed-making scene, much to the amusement and frustration of the rest of the audience. Fortunately, they settled down for the remainder of the opera, allowing the brilliance of the performance to shine through uninterrupted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10748-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292635611272,"sku":"10748-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099246020,"sku":"MP3 10748-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10748-3front.jpeg?v=1751036564"},{"product_id":"wagner-ring-excerpts-jones-kollo-thomas-mcintyre-salminen-boulez","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen EXCERPTS - Jones, Kollo, Thomas, McIntyre, Hofmann, Bode, Salminen, Ridderbusch","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy first encounter with opera came at the tender age of 3 when my father was watching the \u003cem\u003eChéreau Ring Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e. As the story goes, I climbed onto his lap and watched the entire performance in rapt silence. Though I don’t remember it, this moment feels like a fitting initiation, as it sparked a lifelong obsession with Wagner—and, as many of you already know, Gwyneth Jones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscovering this particular \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e has been an absolute delight, as it surpasses the commercial release on nearly every front. Pierre Boulez’s conducting is masterful, blending nuance and variety with brisk tempi while allowing the music to breathe when needed. Gwyneth Jones is at her peak, delivering a performance of stunning beauty and dramatic intensity, complete with some truly unparalleled high Cs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cast adds even more richness, featuring René Kollo as a youthful and vibrant “Junge” Siegfried, Jess Thomas as a compelling \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e Siegfried, Karl Ridderbusch as an exceptionally suave Hagen, and Eva Randová as a brilliantly over-the-top Fricka. The sound quality is excellent, making this a \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e to treasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10752-1\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292635021448,"sku":"10752-1","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099241284,"sku":"MP3 10752-1","price":3.57,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10752-1front.jpg?v=1751036560"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-jones-kollo-thomas-mcintyre-hofmann-bode-boulez-bayreuth-1976","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Jones, Kollo, Thomas, McIntyre, Hofmann, Bode; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy first experience with opera came when I was 3 years old. My father was watching the Chéreau \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e. According to him, I went and sat on his lap and watched the whole thing with him in rapt silence. It seems fitting that I should be initiated in such a way and even though I don’t remember this experience, as I would go on to cultivate an obsession both with Wagner and with Gwyneth Jones (as many of the regulars already know.) I was beyond pleased to encounter this \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e and find that on almost every front it is better than the commercial release. Pierre Boulez’s conducting is nuanced and varied favoring brisk tempi but not being afraid to slow down when the music calls for it. Gwyneth Jones is at her absolute best delivering a performance that is remarkable both for its beauty and dramatic force (and not to mention some unparalleled high Cs.) In addition there are some interesting variations including René Kollo as \"Der junge\" Siegfried, Jess Thomas as the \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e Siegfried, Karl Ridderbusch as one of the most suave Hagens you will ever come across and Eva Randová as a wonderfully hysterical Fricka. The sound is excellent!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10750-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634923144,"sku":"10750-12","price":59.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099171332,"sku":"MP3 10750-2","price":31.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10750-12front.jpeg?v=1751036556"},{"product_id":"strauss-salome-behrens-baltsa-bohm-van-dam-ochman-karajan","title":"Strauss: Salome - Behrens, Van Dam, Böhm, Baltsa, Ochman; Karajan.  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Her voice was still too legit for these kind of roles and she lacks the \"campy\" quality that makes a great Herodias (perhaps Karajan wanted to convey a more youthful Herodias.) Van Dam may not be booming in this role, but he still delivers it with plenty of fire and brimstone and his attractive voice makes it seem all the more clear why Salome would become so infatuated with him. Walter Böhm is serviceable as Herod but not at the level of his colleagues. It is also worth noting that there are some fantastic singers in the supporting roles including Wieslaw Ochman, Gerd Nienstedt, Kurt Rydl, Michel Sénéchal and Erich Kunz. Karajan delivers all of the technicolor glamor of this score in the manner that only he was capable of. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10872-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292629811336,"sku":"10872-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099060100,"sku":"MP3 10872-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10872-2front.jpg?v=1751036403"},{"product_id":"mercadante-il-giuramento-baltsa-carreras-kerns-albrecht","title":"Mercadante: Il Giuramento - Baltsa, Carreras, Kerns, Peacock; Albrecht.  Berlin, 1974","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough \u003cem\u003eIl Giuramento\u003c\/em\u003e, as with most of Mercadante's works, has long since fallen out of favor, it is most certainly worth a reexamination. At the time of its premier, it was heralded as a game changer in the world of opera and one can easily see how the energetic score with it's sweeping lyricism would point towards Verdi. This performance does much to highlight the works merits. It features a young José Carreras who luxuriates in the bel canto melodies as well as delivering some red hot cabalettas. It is doubly fun to hear a young Agnes Baltsa as Bianca both for the fact that her voice is flawless and gives her a chance to display the promise of a formidable Carmen\/Amneris\/Eboli in the making, as well as the fact that we get to see her interact with Carreras at the onset of what would become a legendary collaboration. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10896-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292629024904,"sku":"10896-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098721412,"sku":"MP3 10896-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10896-2front.jpg?v=1751036379"},{"product_id":"strauss-die-frau-ohne-schatten-eva-marton-birgit-nilsson-kollo-mcintyre-von-dohnanyi","title":"Strauss: Die Frau ohne Schatten - Marton, Kollo, Nilsson, McIntyre, Hesse; von Dohnanyi.  Hamburg, 1977","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis magnificent performance of \u003cem\u003eDie Frau ohne Schatten\u003c\/em\u003e stands out not only for its glittering cast, but also for the fact that it presents one great soprano in the twilight of her career and another at the onset. Birgit Nilsson was already nearing 60 by the time that she first sang the Dyer's wife. The role proved an excellent vehicle for her later years as it still gave her a chance to show off her gleaming high notes without being as taxing as Turandot or Brünnhilde. What her voice may lack in freshness, she makes up for with keen insight into her character's dilemma that only can come with age and experience. Eva Marton was still relatively unknown in 1977 and scores a triumph as the Kaiserin. Her pure yet voluptuous tone proves an indelible asset in depicting the metamorphosis from cloistered princess to passionate woman. René Kollo adds a well needed touch of lyricism to the role of the Kaiser without short-changing any of the many stentorian climaxes. Donald McIntyre's wooly bass-baritone lends itself well to Barak's gruff yet tender nature. Christoph von Dohnányi deftly balances the many layers and colors of Strauss' orchestration. The sound is fair to good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11022-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292625551496,"sku":"11022-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099038340,"sku":"MP3 11022-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11022-3front.jpg?v=1751036284"},{"product_id":"strauss-salome-final-scene-barstow-nilsson-weathers-jones-rysanek-goltz-caballe-behrens-schroder-feinen","title":"Compilation: Salome Final Scene(s) - Barstow, Weathers, Nilsson, Goltz, Rysanek, Caballé, Jones and more!","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eSalome\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Strauss (1864–1949)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eAnyone who loves \u003ci\u003eSalome\u003c\/i\u003e will find this compilation especially enjoyable. It brings together a range of my favorite recordings of the final scene, including performances by expected interpreters such as \u003cb\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eLeonie Rysanek\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eAnja Silja\u003c\/b\u003e, and \u003cb\u003eChristel Goltz\u003c\/b\u003e, alongside more unexpected contributions from \u003cb\u003eFelicia Weathers\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eMontserrat Caballé\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eUrsula Schröder-Feinen\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eHildegard Behrens\u003c\/b\u003e, and \u003cb\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/b\u003e, the last heard singing in English.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Salome – \u003cstrong\u003eChristel Goltz, Gwyneth Jones, Felicia Weathers, Josephine Barstow, Montserrat Caballé, Ursula Schröder-Feinen, Hildegard Behrens, Leonie Rysanek, Birgit Nilsson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Herod – \u003cstrong\u003eWilhelm Ernest, Hans Hopf, Fritz Uhl, Emile Belcourt, Zbyslaw Wozniak, Jaroslav Kachel, Walter Böhm, Jon Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Herodias – \u003cstrong\u003eIngeborg Lasser, Martha Mödl, Lillian Benningsen, Sarah Walker, Sabine Zimmer, Astrid Varnay, Agnes Baltsa, Ruth Hesse, Grace Hoffman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eVarious\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003e1957–1977\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eVarious\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 11078-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      \u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo and Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292623356040,"sku":"11078-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099061380,"sku":"MP3 11078-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11078-2front.jpg?v=1751036222"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-ridderbusch-janowitz-kollo-schreier-meyer-karajan","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Ridderbusch, Kollo, Janowitz, Schreier, Lagger, Leib, Meyer; Karajan.  Salzburg, 1974","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA performance of \u003cem\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/em\u003e is always an event, even if it is a revival. When you add Herbert von Karajan to the mix you know that you are in for a real spectacle, both aurally and visually. Karajan doesn’t disappoint in conveying the opulence and pomp of Wagner’s only comedy, but where he is at his best is during the intimate moments particularly the prelude to Act III. Karajan is able to evoke all of Hans Sachs’ wistfulness from the cello section of the Berlin Philharmonic who sing their line with no less intensity than the great singers on the stage. This is just one of the many memorable moments of this performance. Karl Ridderbusch gets a chance to show his softer side as Hans Sachs and reveals a musical sensitivity that I didn’t know he had in him. René Kollo is an ideal Walther von Stolzing combining the impetuous rashness as well as the poetic lyricism of the character. Gundula Janowitz brings a pure tone to the role of Eva but tends to tire vocally during some of the higher lying passages. In typical fashion, Karajan recruits some excellent singers for the smaller parts including Kerstin Meyer as Magdalene, Peter Lagger as Pogner, Manfred Jung as Eisslinger and in a bizarre turn he divides the two Night Watchman solos between two singer, the later taken by none other than Gerhard Stolze. 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The cast is lead by René Kollo, caught on a good day, as the faustian Max and an almost disturbingly beautiful performance from Kurt Moll as the villainous Kaspar. Hannelore Bode gives pensive, well-spun readings of Agathe's arias, but is rather overshadowed (who wouldn't be?) by Lucia Popp, who gives a sparkling performance in a role that is more often than not irritatingly twee. The presence of Donald McIntyre, Robert Lloyd and Richard Van Allen in smaller roles is true luxury casting, and the great english basso Forbes Robinson is on hand for the demon Samiel's spectral spoken utterances. 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The cameo roles are all taken strongly: \u003cb\u003eNorma Sharp\u003c\/b\u003e brings fine clarity and tone to the Woodbird, \u003cb\u003eMatti Salminen\u003c\/b\u003e growls out an effective Fafner, \u003cb\u003eHanna Schwarz\u003c\/b\u003e sounds as weary and wise as Erda should, and \u003cb\u003eZoltan Kélémen\u003c\/b\u003e's nasty, laser-sharp Alberich gets Act Two off to a strong start.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11193-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292615295112,"sku":"11193-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099246148,"sku":"MP3 11193-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11193-3front.jpg?v=1751036073"},{"product_id":"wagner-lohengrin-tomowa-sintow-rene-kollo-schroder-feinen-nimsgern-herbert-von-karajan","title":"Wagner: Lohengrin - Kollo, Tomowa-Sintow, Schröder-Feinen, Nimsgern, Ridderbusch; Karajan. 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As usual, Karajan spares no expense in casting the opera with some of the finest singers of the day. \u003cb\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/b\u003e brings a nice vocal blend of the dramatic and lyrical in the title role. \u003cb\u003eAnna Tomowa-Sintow\u003c\/b\u003e is radiant as Elsa, whether floating pianissimo high notes in her opening aria or standing up to the formidable Ortrud of \u003cb\u003eUrsula Schröder-Feinen\u003c\/b\u003e in their Act II confrontation. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11218-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292614508680,"sku":"11218-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099227332,"sku":"MP3 11218-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11218-3front.jpg?v=1751036046"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-gwyneth-jones-rene-kollo-donald-mcintyre-pierre-boulez","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen (excerpts) - Jones, Kollo, Jung, McIntyre, Minton, Zednik; Boulez. 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The most jarring aspect is that there are many cuts which interrupt the meditative flow of the work. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11313-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292608053384,"sku":"11313-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099234308,"sku":"MP3 11313-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11313-3front.jpg?v=1751035924"},{"product_id":"mozart-die-zauberflote-kollo-mathis-gruberova-prey-meven-van-dam-grist-herbert-von-karajan","title":"Mozart: Die Zauberflöte - Kollo, Mathis, Gruberova, Prey, Meven, Van Dam, Grist; Karajan. 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A young \u003cstrong\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/strong\u003e also makes a strong impression as Walther.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sound quality is generally good, though Act II is somewhat muffled compared to the rest of the performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 12026-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":47745464828225,"sku":"12026-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":47745464860993,"sku":"MP3 12026-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":47745464893761,"sku":"FLAC 12026-3","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/12026-3front.jpg?v=1751035133"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-rene-kollo-leonie-rsyanek-martti-talvela-wolfgang-sawallisch","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Kollo, Rysanek, Talvela, Nimsgern; Sawallisch. Orange, 1979","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eParsifal\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813 - 1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eIn this compelling performance of \u003ci\u003eParsifal\u003c\/i\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/strong\u003e stands at the zenith of his vocal and interpretive powers. His portrayal of the title role is both youthful and robust, shaped by nearly a decade of experience with the part. There’s a striking equilibrium between dramatic vigor and philosophical depth, as Kollo navigates Parsifal’s evolution from innocence to enlightenment with unwavering command.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eHe is joined by \u003cstrong\u003eLeonie Rysanek\u003c\/strong\u003e, whose trademark intensity and emotional openness are a natural fit for Kundry. Her performance brims with volatility and abandon, channeled with remarkable control, making for a mesmerizing dramatic presence. \u003cstrong\u003eMartti Talvela\u003c\/strong\u003e brings warmth and quiet nobility to Gurnemanz, delivering his expansive monologues with dignified poise and a deep, resonant tone that gently anchors the drama.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Parsifal – \u003cstrong\u003eRENÉ KOLLO\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Kundry – \u003cstrong\u003eLEONIE RYSANEK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Gurnemanz – \u003cstrong\u003eMARTTI TALVELA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Amfortas – \u003cstrong\u003eSIEGMUND NIMSGERN\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Klingsor – \u003cstrong\u003eWOLFGANG PROBST\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Titurel – \u003cstrong\u003eVICTOR VON HALEM\u003c\/strong\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eThéâtre antique d'Orange\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eAugust 11, 1979\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Sawallisch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12195-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      \u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50380421366081,"sku":"12195-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":50380421398849,"sku":"MP3 12195-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50380421431617,"sku":"FLAC 12195-4","price":13.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12195-4front.jpg?v=1751034875"},{"product_id":"wagner-meistersinger-fischer-dieskau-varady-kollo-schreier-moll-wolfgang-sawallisch","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Fischer-Dieskau, Varady, Kollo, Schreier, Moll; Sawallisch. München, 1979","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDietrich Fischer-Dieskau\u003c\/b\u003e ventured into Wagnerian territory with boldness, taking on a role that may have nudged the limits of his lyric baritone. Where many baritones risk forcing their instruments to meet the demands of dramatic repertoire, Fischer-Dieskau relies instead on intellect and insight. His portrayal navigates the character’s emotional and theatrical complexities with precision, even if it lacks the sheer vocal weight typically associated with the part. What emerges is a performance that emphasizes the opera’s tender spirit and human warmth, casting Wagner’s only comedy in a refreshing new light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe is supported by \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Sawallisch\u003c\/b\u003e, whose conducting draws inspiration from Fischer-Dieskau’s lyrical reading. The result is a soundscape that favors clarity and joy over grandeur, allowing the work’s humor and nuance to shine. The cast surrounding Fischer-Dieskau enhances this vision with youthful energy and vocal brightness. \u003cb\u003eJulia Varady\u003c\/b\u003e is radiant as Eva, her voice ideally matched with \u003cb\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/b\u003e’s impassioned von Stolzing. \u003cb\u003ePeter Schreier\u003c\/b\u003e lends David a relatable warmth, while \u003cb\u003eKurt Moll\u003c\/b\u003e’s dignified Pogner anchors the ensemble with resonant authority. Together, they create a performance of exceptional lyricism and vitality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHans Sachs – \u003cstrong\u003eDietrich Fischer-Dieskau\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWalther von Stolzing – \u003cstrong\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEva – \u003cstrong\u003eJulia Varady\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVeit Pogner – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Moll\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDavid – \u003cstrong\u003ePeter Schreier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSixtus Beckmesser – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Günter Nöcker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFritz Kothner – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Helm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMagdalena – \u003cstrong\u003eCornelia Wulkopf\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNachtwächter – \u003cstrong\u003eNikolas Hillebrand\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKunz Vogelgesang – \u003cstrong\u003eFriedrich Lenz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKonrad Nachtigall – \u003cstrong\u003eRaimund Grumbach\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUlrich Eisslinger – \u003cstrong\u003eHermann Sapell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBalthasar Zorn – \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Paskuda\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAugustin Moser – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Thaw\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHermann Ortel – \u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Imdahl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHans Schwarz – \u003cstrong\u003eKieth Engen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHans Foltz – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Christian Kohn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eMünchen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1979\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Sawallisch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12192-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eNOTE\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are breaks in the recording, the most disruptive occurring during \"Was duftet doch der Flieder.\" Additional issues include a rough transition into Scene 2 of Act III and a patch of compromised sound quality from the Preislied through the opera’s conclusion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50540153930049,"sku":"12192-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":50540153962817,"sku":"MP3 12192-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50540153995585,"sku":"FLAC 12192-4","price":13.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12192-4front.jpg?v=1751034852"},{"product_id":"bizet-carmen-baltsa-bonhomme-mandac-shinall-rosenkranz","title":"Bizet: Carmen - Baltsa, Bonhomme, Mandac, Shinall; 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