Verdi: Messa da Requiem - Bjoner, Töpper, Kmentt, Frick; Richter. München, 1969

Listen to a Sample:

Pros:

• This performance of Verdi's Requiem is unapologetically German, from the casting of the soloists, to the choice of Karl Richter - a Bach specialist with little opera experience - to the choir which sings with the traditional German-Latin pronunciation. Still the essence of Verdi's towering oratorio comes through, and it is a breath of fresh air to hear an ensemble sing a piece without putting on pretences of authenticity that invariably only make the work feel less sincere.
• Ingrid Bjoner is heavenly.

Cons:

• None to mention.

In Mono

OD 12107-2