Fidelio

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)

DESCRIPTION

Elinor Ross assumes the title role in this concert performance of Fidelio, bringing a voice that combines size and warmth to often thrilling effect. At times, I found myself giving in to my bias for a more classical approach to the role, and indeed some of the higher notes must be negotiated downward, but she more than makes up for this in the dramatic passages, particularly in the Act II confrontation with Don Pizarro.

Richard Cassilly brings a voice of unusual purity and power to Florestan, while Michael Langdon adds welcome vocal warmth as Rocco. The real stand-out, however, is Barbara Hendricks as Marzelline. Still in her twenties, Hendricks’ artistry already possessed the compelling radiance that would soon make her a star. Simon Estes makes an impressive cameo as Don Fernando.

CAST

Leonore – Elinor Ross
Florestan – Richard Cassilly
Don Pizarro – Marius Rintzler
Rocco – Michael Langdon
Jacquino – William Brown
Marzelline – Barbara Hendricks
Don Fernando – Simon Estes
1. Gefängener – James Vincent Pickens
2. Gefängener – David Berger
Narrator – Steven Klein

DETAILS

Location: Cleveland
Date: August 25, 1976
Conductor: Lorin Maazel
Catalogue Number: OD 12327-2
Label: Opera Depot
Number of Discs: 2
In Stereo

Act I

Act II