Wagner: Das Rheingold - Hotter, von Milinkovic, Suthaus, Neidlinger, Brouwenstijn, Madeira; Knappertsbusch. Bayreuth, 1956

$8.95

Listen to a Sample:

The 1956 Ring Cycle gets off to a very strong start with this performance of Das Rheingold.
Despite an occasional wooly quality that creeps into his tone, Hans Hotter is able to convey all the youth and ambition of the Rheingold Wotan.
Vocally, Ludwig Suthaus may have been passed his prime, but he seems to relish the acting challenges that Loge provides him.
Jean Madeira is one of the best Erda's I have ever heard. Her warm contralto conveys both the character's wisdom, all while making it clear why Wotan would be compelled to have eight children with her.
Arnold Van Mill deserves kudos for his stoic, yet soulful Fasolt.