{"title":"FRANTZ, Ferdinand","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-cunitz-kozub-koth-frantz","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Cunitz, Kozub, Köth, Frantz, Frick, Dickie; von Matzerath. Frankfurt, 1957","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\nDon Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eMarcel Cordes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDon Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFlorestan – \u003cstrong\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJacquino – \u003cstrong\u003eMurray Dickie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLeonore – \u003cstrong\u003eMaud Cunitz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMarzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eErika Köth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nRocco – \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n1. Gefangener – \u003cstrong\u003eMilo Reneerkens\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n2. Gefangener – \u003cstrong\u003eAugust Heimpel\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\u003eFrankfurt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eNovember 27, 1957\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eOtto van Matzerath\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10187-2\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":31292660351112,"sku":"10187-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van_664760b0-b87c-4936-9446-407c5e9e32d4.png?v=1782509850"},{"product_id":"strauss-der-liebe-der-danae-rysanek-vanderberg-frantz","title":"Strauss: Die Liebe der Danae - Rysanek, Frantz, Vandenberg, Sieder; Eichhorn. Munich in London, 1953","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\nDanae – \u003cstrong\u003eLeonie Rysanek\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJupiter – \u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMidas – \u003cstrong\u003eHoward Vandenberg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nPollux – \u003cstrong\u003eAugust Sieder\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMerkur – \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Klarwein\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nXanthe – \u003cstrong\u003eKäthe Nentwig\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSemele – \u003cstrong\u003eGerda Sommerschuh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nEuropa – \u003cstrong\u003eAntonia Fahberg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAlkmene – \u003cstrong\u003eLillian Benningsen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLeda – \u003cstrong\u003eImgard Barth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVier Königen – \u003cstrong\u003ePaul Kuen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVier Königen – \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Carnuth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVier Königen – \u003cstrong\u003eCarl Hoppe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVier Königen – \u003cstrong\u003eRudolf Wünzer\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\u003eOn tour in London\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1953\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Eichhorn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e11217-2\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":31292658909320,"sku":"10217-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Strauss-Richard_5374c3d4-d8d4-4887-824a-91d5c8f55f42.png?v=1782509917"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-windgassen-modl-weber-uhde-frantz-jochum","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Windgassen, Mödl, Weber, Frantz, Uhde; Jochum. Roma, 1956","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this towering performance of \u003ci\u003eParsifal\u003c\/i\u003e, \u003cb\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/b\u003e brings a searing emotional range and raw dramatic force to the role of Kundry. At the height of her powers, she infuses each phrase with turbulent intensity and inner conflict, her voice alternately slashing and pleading as the narrative demands. Paired with \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e, whose Parsifal radiates youthful nobility and growing spiritual awareness, the two create an electrifying dynamic that anchors the performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLudwig Weber\u003c\/b\u003e is a stately and dignified Gurnemanz, his resonant bass lending a timeless authority to the part. His long monologues are delivered with such natural inflection and warmth that they seem to suspend time. As Amfortas, \u003cb\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/b\u003e offers a deeply affecting portrayal marked by both suffering and vocal assurance—his outcries are anguished yet never lose technical control, giving the character both tragic gravity and musical finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnder the baton of \u003cb\u003eEugen Jochum\u003c\/b\u003e, the score unfolds with elegiac beauty. His pacing is unhurried but never static, allowing the mystical contours of the music to breathe. Jochum draws glowing colors from the orchestra, illuminating Wagner’s spiritual landscape with both clarity and reverence. The result is a \u003ci\u003eParsifal\u003c\/i\u003e that transcends the theatrical and touches the metaphysical, driven by a cast in peak form and a conductor who grasps the work’s inner radiance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10082-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292654157960,"sku":"10082-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099239492,"sku":"MP3 10082-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50378832183617,"sku":"FLAC 10082-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10082-4front.jpg?v=1751037025"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-braun-frantz-konetzni-treptow-moralt","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Braun, Frantz, H. Konetzni, Treptow, Anday; Moralt.  Wien, 1949","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThough many of the singers may not be widely known, I found myself completely captivated by the performance. \u003cstrong\u003eHelena Braun\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a slender, youthful quality to Brünnhilde, while \u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a suave and tender Wotan, particularly moving in the opera’s final moments. \u003cstrong\u003eGünther Treptow\u003c\/strong\u003e sings Siegmund with a beautifully lyrical approach, never forcing his voice beyond its natural limits, and \u003cstrong\u003eHilde Konetzni\u003c\/strong\u003e rounds out the cast as an expressive Sieglinde.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eVienna Philharmonic\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a crisp and precise performance, with \u003cstrong\u003eRudolf Moralt\u003c\/strong\u003e leading the orchestra in a way that allows the brass section to shine—often to thrilling effect. The sound quality is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10550-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292643541128,"sku":"10550-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099201668,"sku":"MP3 10550-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":41560094212270,"sku":"FLAC 10550-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10550-3front.jpg?v=1751036827"},{"product_id":"wagner-lohengrin-fehenberger-hupper-braun-frantz-jochum","title":"Wagner: Lohengrin - Fehenberger, Hupper, Braun, Frantz, von Rohr; Jochum.  München, 1952","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf no big names jump out at you, do not let that mislead you into thinking that these were B-level singers. On the contrary, this is one of the most lyrically sung Lohengrins I have ever come across. All of the leads sound as if they would be equally at home in Mozart. Lorenz Fehenberger's sweet voice brings to mind Sandor Konya. Even Helena Braun, although exciting, does not go completely over the top as Ortrud, thereby giving the character some much needed credibility and even a little finesse. Eugen Jochum leads a magisterial performance. The sound is generally good although there is some scratchiness at times left over from the transfer from LP.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10782-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633874568,"sku":"10782-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099224132,"sku":"MP3 10782-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10782-3front.jpg?v=1751036517"},{"product_id":"pfitzner-palestrina-lorenz-schoffler-frantz-soderstrom-madeira-frick-kempe","title":"Pfitzner: Palestrina - Lorenz, Schöffler, Frantz, Madeira, Von Rohr, Söderström, Frick; Kempe.  Salzburg. 1955","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I was 18 years old \u003cem\u003ePalestrina\u003c\/em\u003e came in a touring production to New York City.  Assuming that this would be one of my only chances to hear this opera I made the trek from Boston.  The evening left a deep impression, due in no small part to the excellent cast, and I have found myself returning to this mysterious opera often throughout my life.  The plot of the opera centers on an apocryphal legend of Palestrina saving polyphony.  On paper that doesn't seem like a very interesting subject for an opera, but Pfitzner's music does a wonderful job of painting the mood both of Palestrina and the contentious council of Trent.  The music has a suspended quality much like Parsifal.  This performance does an excellent job of advocating for the works' merits.  Max Lorenz in the title role is a little past his prime but still uses his over-sized tenor with restraint and class.  Paul Schöffler is a stern Borromeo and some of the smaller roles include the likes of Elisabeth Söderström, Gottlob Frick, Jean Madeira and Ferdinand Frantz.  The sound is good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10789-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633677960,"sku":"10789-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098747972,"sku":"MP3 10789-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":49849307988289,"sku":null,"price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10789-3front.jpg?v=1751036510"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-vandenberg-schech-frantz-metternich-proebstl-jochum","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Vandenberg, Schech, Frantz, Metternich, Proebstl; Jochum.  München, 1957","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI was drawn to this recording of \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e because it featured soprano Marianne Schech as Kundry. Schech is a singer I have come to in my later years (aged 34) and I am not quite sure how I had previously neglected her. Her voice had a gleaming quality with soaring high notes not unlike Leonie Rysanek and yet at the same time there was a purity of tone that brings to mind Gundula Janowitz. These seemingly contradictory traits add up to a Kundry that is alluring, fragile, youthful and wild all at the same time. The rest of the cast delivers respectable if not legendary performances the one notable stand-out being Ferdinand Frantz as Gurnemanz. Eugen Johcum's conducting is sublimely delicate. The sound is good although there is a very large portion of the Good Friday scene missing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10834-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292631023752,"sku":"10834-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099237892,"sku":"MP3 10834-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10834-4front.jpg?v=1751036450"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-treptow-grob-prandl-frantz-anday-moralt","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Treptow, Wernigk, Frantz, Grob-Prandl, Anday; Moralt.  Wien, 1949","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis fantastic \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e captures a rare glimpse of some of the finest Wagnerian singers of the 40s in fantastic sound. In the title role Günther Treptow demonstrates a pure and burly tone which maintains its evenness in spite of the horrific demands that Wagner places upon him. The color is somewhat baritonal with an upper extension that is unmistakably that of a true tenor. Ferdinand Frantz delivers one of the finest sung Wotan's I have ever heard. His voice is both suave and powerful and he seems to avoid the notorious \"Bayreuth Bark\". Gertrude Grob-Prandl is simply astonishing as Brünnhilde. Contemporary accounts maintain that hers was one of the largest Wagnerian soprano voices in history. Although that can be difficult to bare out on recording, what is most certain is that she delivers the role with remarkable energetic vigor and sores up to the high Cs with ease and confidence. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10845-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292630696072,"sku":"10845-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099251268,"sku":"MP3 10845-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":41560138416302,"sku":"FLAC 10845-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10845-2front.jpg?v=1751036434"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-frantz-fischer-windgassen-schock-greindl-schuchter","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Frantz, Fischer, Windgassen, Schock, Greindl, Frick; Schüchter.  Hamburg, 1952","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI defy anyone to listen to this recording of \u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e and provide me with a reason why Ferdinand Frantz should not be regarded as one of the finest Wotan's of the 20th Century. His voice has a youthful, yet commanding quality, completely devoid of the \"Bayreuth bark\" and does not flag during the entire course of the evening. He is joined by a remarkable supporting cast including Wolfgang Windgassen showing his nimbler side as Loge, Res Fisher as Fricka, a fantastic pair of giants in the form of Gottlob Frick and Josef Greindl and even Rudolf Schock as Froh. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10905-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292628074632,"sku":"10905-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099157956,"sku":"MP3 10905-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10905-2front.jpg?v=1751036367"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-van-manowarda-lorenz-frantz-weisbach","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg Act II (Incomplete) - van Manowarda, Lorenz, Frantz; Weisbach.  Leipzig, 1938","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the heels of Wagner’s bicentennial year it is fascinating to hear this very early broadcast from 1938, mounted in celebration of Wagner’s 125th birthday. The performance is only about 50 minutes of Act II, fading out just before Beckmesser’s serenade, but it still presents a tantalizing glimpse of Wagner in the early part of the 20th century. The Hans Sachs is Josef von Manowarda and he is quite good. The voice is an impressive size and he manages to sing with admirable legato even during the more bombastic moments. Max Lorenz is captured in his prime and delivers a lyric tenor with a dramatic punch to it. Margarethe Teschemacher offers a pretty, if somewhat bland Eva. Ferdinand Frantz brings poise and beauty to Pogner’s solo. The sound is pretty good for the era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11097-1\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292622110856,"sku":"11097-1","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099199172,"sku":"MP3 11097-1","price":5.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11097-1front.jpg?v=1751036194"},{"product_id":"strauss-elektra-borkh-klose-frantz-suthaus-salome","title":"Strauss: Elektra - Borkh, Klose, Kupper, Frantz; Schröder. Frankfurt, 1953. Bonus: Salome Exc with Borkh, Klose \u0026 Suthaus","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConventional wisdom holds that \u003ci\u003eElektra\u003c\/i\u003e is a role best reserved for dramatic sopranos nearing the end of their careers—those with the technical experience to survive it or the willingness to spend their remaining vocal capital. \u003cb\u003eInge Borkh\u003c\/b\u003e defied that logic, virtually owning the role throughout the 1950s and 60s while still in her 30s. The result is an Elektra of searing intensity, driven by single-minded vengeance yet never stripped of her royal bearing. Borkh’s youthful timbre brings clarity and fire to the part, especially in her charged exchanges with \u003cb\u003eMargarete Klose’s\u003c\/b\u003e Klytämnestra.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKlose, for her part, brings a surprising maternal pathos to the role. Despite Klytämnestra’s monstrous crime, Klose’s portrayal adds a tragic weight that underscores the opera’s moral ambiguity. \u003cb\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/b\u003e is a commanding and emotionally resonant Orest, and sharp ears will catch a young \u003cb\u003eChrista Ludwig\u003c\/b\u003e making an early impression as the First Maid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe sound is very good. As a bonus, the final 30 minutes of a performance of \u003ci\u003eSalome\u003c\/i\u003e from the same year has been included, featuring Borkh and Klose, along with \u003cb\u003eLudwig Suthaus\u003c\/b\u003e as Herod. The sound of the excerpt is less ideal, but it offers a fascinating postscript to the \u003ci\u003eElektra\u003c\/i\u003e performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11349-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292606709896,"sku":"11349-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099045124,"sku":"MP3 11349-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11349-2front.jpeg?v=1751035887"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-set-svanholm-ferdinand-frantz-michael-langdon-joan-sutherland-fritz-stiedry","title":"Wagner: Siegfried (excerpts) - Svanholm, Frantz, Kuen, Langdon, Sutherland; Striedry. London, 1954","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis rare document of \u003ci\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/i\u003e features \u003cb\u003eSet Svanholm\u003c\/b\u003e in a performance that combines lyrical freedom with heroic power—his Siegfried is both vocally commanding and musically sensitive. \u003cb\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/b\u003e brings elegance and gravitas to Wotan, his performance marked by poised authority rather than sheer force.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAdding a unique historical footnote is the appearance of a young \u003cb\u003eJoan Sutherland\u003c\/b\u003e as the Forest Bird, offering a glimpse of her crystalline soprano before her rise to international stardom. Unfortunately, the recording cuts off before \u003cb\u003eMargaret Harshaw\u003c\/b\u003e makes her entrance as Brünnhilde, leaving a significant part of the final act undocumented.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe sound is typical of the era—serviceable but limited in range—yet the performance retains its dramatic potency and historical value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11490-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292600844424,"sku":"11490-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":19336937284,"sku":"MP3 11490-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":19336937348,"sku":"FLAC 11490-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11490-2front.jpeg?v=1751035718"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-ferdinand-frantz-tiana-lemnitz-bernd-aldenhoff-kurt-bohme-rudolf-kempe","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Frantz, Aldenhoff, Lemnitz, Unger, Böhme, Pflanzl; Kempe. Dresden, 1951","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/b\u003e is without question a Hans Sachs for the ages, combining virile, masculine tones with the heart of a poet. \u003cb\u003eTiana Lemnitz\u003c\/b\u003e is radiant as Eva. As Walther, \u003cb\u003eBernd Aldenhoff\u003c\/b\u003e brings a more dramatic sound to the role, but his solid technique carries him through the more lyrical passages that evoke Mozart more than Wagner. The supporting cast includes fun cameos, such as \u003cb\u003eTheo Adam\u003c\/b\u003e as Hermann Ortel and \u003cb\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/b\u003e as Augustin Moser. I would be remiss not to mention the exemplary playing of the Dresdner Staatskapelle under the direction of \u003cb\u003eRudolf Kempe\u003c\/b\u003e. The sound is outstanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11639-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292594323592,"sku":"11639-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":38235593032,"sku":"MP3 11639-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":38235593224,"sku":"FLAC 11639-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11639-4front.jpg?v=1751035557"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-leonie-rysanek-hans-hopf-ferdinand-frantz-ludwig-weber-eugen-jochum","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Rysanek, Hopf, Weber, Frantz; Jochum. Roma, 1957","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA young \u003cb\u003eLeonie Rysanek\u003c\/b\u003e gives a sterling performance in the title role, already displaying the vocal fire and emotional commitment that would define her career. \u003cb\u003eHans Hopf\u003c\/b\u003e brings both power and unexpected sweetness to Florestan, while \u003cb\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/b\u003e delivers a bone-chilling portrayal of Pizzaro, his baritone charged with menace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11640-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292594258056,"sku":"11640-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":38860395720,"sku":"MP3 11640-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":38860395784,"sku":"FLAC 11640-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11640-2front.jpg?v=1751035552"},{"product_id":"strauss-salome-inge-borkh-max-lorenz-ferdinand-frantz-margarete-klose-christa-ludwig-schroder","title":"Strauss: Salome - Borkh, Lorenz, Klose, Frantz, C. Ludwig; Schröder. Frankfurt, 1952","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInge Borkh\u003c\/b\u003e proves once again why she dominated the role of Salome throughout the 1950s. Her performance combines cinematic glamour with a voice of unwavering strength and expressive detail. \u003cb\u003eMax Lorenz\u003c\/b\u003e brings unexpected dimension to Herod, steering the character away from grotesque caricature and toward something more disturbingly human. \u003cb\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/b\u003e delivers a riveting Jochanaan, his baritone blazing with prophetic fire yet tinged with dark allure. A young \u003cb\u003eChrista Ludwig\u003c\/b\u003e also makes a notable appearance as the Page, adding further interest to an already remarkable cast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBONUS:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInge Borkh sings \"Allein! Weh, ganz allein\" from \u003ci\u003eElektra\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11733-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292591210632,"sku":"11733-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":8020965949486,"sku":"MP3 11733-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":8020965982254,"sku":"FLAC 11733-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11733-2front.jpg?v=1751035453"},{"product_id":"wagner-tristan-und-isolde-braun-treptow-frantz-klose-erich-kleiber","title":"Wagner: Tristan und Isolde - Braun, Treptow, Klose, Frantz; E. Kleiber. München, 1952","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCarlos Kleiber\u003c\/b\u003e became legendary for his interpretation of \u003ci\u003eTristan und Isolde\u003c\/i\u003e, but this earlier performance conducted by his father, \u003cb\u003eErich Kleiber\u003c\/b\u003e, makes clear that the interpretive brilliance ran in the family. The elder Kleiber brings a deeply emotional, almost revelatory approach to the score—exploring sorrow, love, joy, and sensuality with uncommon insight. It is the kind of interpretation that makes the opera feel entirely new, even to seasoned listeners.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHelena Braun\u003c\/b\u003e may not be the most vocally sumptuous Isolde, but her unwavering connection to the text and dramatic intensity places her among the finest interpreters of the role. \u003cb\u003eGünther Treptow\u003c\/b\u003e contributes elegant, lyrical singing as Tristan, though at times his vocal resources seem better suited to the studio than the stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11749-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292590784648,"sku":"11749-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":8244072841262,"sku":"MP3 11749-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":8244072874030,"sku":"FLAC 11749-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11749-3front.jpg?v=1751035440"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-ferdinand-frantz-elisabeth-hoengen-rudolf-moralt","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Frantz, Pölzer, Höngen, Wernigk; Moralt. Wien, 1948","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e, as Wotan, brings an impressive range of color and dynamic nuance to the role, meeting its vocal challenges with apparent ease. \u003cstrong\u003eElisabeth Höngen\u003c\/strong\u003e contributes a rich, full sound that adds warmth and dimension, softening the sharper edges of her character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJulius Pölzer\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a strong sense of character to Loge, though the tonal quality can be uneven and lacks refinement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11892-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":41561446875310,"sku":"11892-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":41561446940846,"sku":"MP3 11892-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":41561447006382,"sku":"FLAC 11892-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11892-2front.jpg?v=1751035279"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-rudolf-moralt-grob-prandl-treptow-ferdinand-frantz-helena-braun-konetzni","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Braun, Grob-Prandl, Frantz, Treptow, Konetzni, Anday, Weber; Moralt. Wien, 1948 -1949","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStaging a complete \u003ci\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/i\u003e is always a formidable undertaking, but to do so just a few years after the devastation of World War II speaks to the remarkable determination of a public deeply committed to opera. Despite limited resources, these performances were brought to life with conviction, anchored by the expert playing of the Wiener Symphoniker under the direction of \u003cstrong\u003eRudolf Moralt\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a commanding Wotan, marked by impressive vocal presence. He is joined by his wife, \u003cstrong\u003eHelena Braun\u003c\/strong\u003e, in the role of Brünnhilde in \u003ci\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/i\u003e, where her slender yet resilient voice lends a sense of youthful strength to the character. \u003cstrong\u003eGertrude Grob-Prandl\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a compelling contrast as Brünnhilde in \u003ci\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/i\u003e, rounding out a cast that rewards careful listening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11893-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":41561447071918,"sku":"11893-12","price":99.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":41561447104686,"sku":"MP3 11893-12","price":51.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":41561447137454,"sku":"FLAC 11893-12","price":63.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11893-12front.jpg?v=1751035278"},{"product_id":"wagner-tristan-und-isolde-braun-treptow-klose-frantz-schoffler-knappertbusch","title":"Wagner: Tristan und Isolde - Braun, Treptow, Klose, Frantz, Schöffler; Knappertsbusch. München, 1950","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen approaching any performance conducted by \u003cstrong\u003eHans Knappertsbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e, it’s best to set aside expectations and embrace the unexpected. His musical style is deeply rooted in the text and notes, free from the idiosyncratic mannerisms that make some conductors instantly recognizable. For instance, while one might anticipate a leisurely pace based on his \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e, this \u003cem\u003eTristan\u003c\/em\u003e surprises with a brisk and dramatically charged prelude, setting an urgent tone from the outset.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHelena Braun\u003c\/strong\u003e, though showing some vocal wear, fully commits to the character, delivering a portrayal that is both raw and deeply moving. \u003cstrong\u003eGünther Treptow’s\u003c\/strong\u003e burly tenor matches her intensity while navigating the vocal demands with slightly greater ease. \u003cstrong\u003eMargarete Klose\u003c\/strong\u003e brings warmth to Brangäne, and \u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a heartbreakingly poignant portrayal of Marke. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\n\u003cp\u003eMono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 12167-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":49916626993473,"sku":"12167-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":49916627026241,"sku":"MP3 12167-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":49916627059009,"sku":"FLAC 12167-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12167-4front.jpg?v=1751034940"},{"product_id":"pfitzner-palestrina-patzak-hotter-frantz-heger","title":"Pfitzner: Palestrina - Patzak, Hotter, Frantz; Heger. München, 1951","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Palestrina – \u003cstrong\u003eJulius Patzak\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Borromeo – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Morone – \u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Papst Pius IV – \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Wieter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Novagerio – \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Klarwein\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ighino – \u003cstrong\u003eKäthe Nentwig\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Silla – \u003cstrong\u003eKatja Sabo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eMünchen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly 24, 1951\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Heger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30203-3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":50543201747265,"sku":"30203-3","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Pfitzner-Hans_a6c6e91d-b80e-4728-b8a8-6892830f7043.png?v=1751034726"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-braun-patzak-greindl-frantz-jochum","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Braun, Patzak, Greindl, Frantz; Jochum. München, 1951","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeonore – \u003cstrong\u003eHelena Braun\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFlorestan – \u003cstrong\u003eJulius Patzak\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nRocco – \u003cstrong\u003eJosef Greindl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDon Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDon Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Schmitt-Walter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMarzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eElfriede Trötschel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJaquino – \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Holm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nErster Gefangener – \u003cstrong\u003eAlfons Fügel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Maria Lins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eMünchen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eApril 1951\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eEugen Jochum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30250-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":50668390973761,"sku":"30250-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van_bd015840-ac61-4346-98a6-7b813b49b29a.png?v=1753757313"},{"product_id":"verdi-aida-lafayette-von-milinkovic-gostic-frantz-frick-berry-krauss","title":"Verdi: Aida (In German) - Lafayette, von Milinkovic, Gostic, Frantz, Frick, Berry; Krauss. München, 1953","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Aida – \u003cstrong\u003eLeonora Lafayette\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Amneris – \u003cstrong\u003eGeorgine von Milinkovic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Radames – \u003cstrong\u003eJosef Gostic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Amonasro – \u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ramfis – \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Il Re – \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Un Messaggero – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Ostertag\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Sacerdotessa – \u003cstrong\u003eElisabeth Lindermeier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eMünchen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eSeptember 1953\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eClemens Krauss\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30280-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Chorus: \u003cstrong\u003eChor des Bayerischen Rundfunks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Orchestra: \u003cstrong\u003eOrchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":50721611383105,"sku":"30280-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Verdi-Giuseppe_0a4e7461-2bd2-4129-831c-3febc3c76c1f.png?v=1755282549"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/collections\/Frantz-Ferdinand.png?v=1752372744","url":"https:\/\/operadepot.com\/collections\/ferdinand-frantz.oembed?page=2","provider":"Opera Depot","version":"1.0","type":"link"}