{"title":"RIDDERBUSCH, Karl","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"ring-nibelungen-excerpts-schroder-feinen-stein-bayreuth","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen (EXCERPTS) - Lindholm, Schröder-Feinen, Ligendza, Cox, Adam; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not uncommon for two sopranos to split duties as Brünnhilde in the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e, but I have never come across a complete cycle inhabited by three different Brünnhildes. It had originally been intended for Berit Lindholm to sing the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhildes and Catarina Ligendza to sing the \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde, but Lindholm fell ill before the performance of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e giving Ursula Schröder-Feinen, who was still relatively unknown at the time, the opportunity to show off her Wagnerian chops. And some mighty fine chops they are, I might add. For my part Schröder-Feinen nearly steals the entire Cycle, tackling the shortest, but arguably most difficult, role in the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e with seeming ease. Her top is gleaming with seemingly endless reserves and she is able to scale back her voice for the more intimate moments. That is not to short-change the achievements of her colleagues. Lindholm struggles a little at first with the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde but quickly settles into things revealing an alluring, auburn color to her voice, which brought to my mind a young Astrid Varnay. Catarina Ligendza returns for her third summer as Brünnhilde at Bayreuth and seems more confidant and secure than ever. It is unclear to me how well her voice may have cut through the orchestra, but she manages the treacherous role with impressive security and a youthful quality that is all too rare in Wagner. The rest of the cast is very good. Theo Adam sings Wotan, Gwyneth Jones is Sieglinde, Jean Cox delivers a dashing Siegfried (replete with an impressive high C in \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e). The smaller roles are no less distinguished, including the likes of Eva Randovà as Gutrune, Franz Mazura as Gunther and Marga Höffgen as Erda. The sound is very good and the performances are complete except for about 30 seconds of music at the beginning of \"Ewig war ich\" in Act III of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10934-1\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666380424,"sku":"10934-1","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098794052,"sku":"MP3 10934-1","price":3.57,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10934-1front.jpg?v=1751037325"},{"product_id":"gotterdammerung-wagner-ligendza-cox-ridderbusch-stein","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Ligendza, Cox, Ridderbusch, Mazura, Neidlinger, Randová; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou would not expect Catarina Ligendza to be as successful in the role of Brünnhilde as she was. Her jugendlische sound seems a somewhat incongruous fit, especially in \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e. Surprisingly, she manages to rise to the challenges with confidence. She is well matched with the Siegfried of Jean Cox (the two must have been one of the most attractive pair in the history of Bayreuth.) Karl Ridderbusch brings sinister charm to the role of Hagen. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10932-4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmuseed-player data-playlist=\"10932-4\" width=\"640\" height=\"compact-height\"\u003e \u003c\/museed-player\u003e \u003cscript type=\"module\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/player.museed.co\/player.js\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\" async\u003e \u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666347656,"sku":"10932-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098695428,"sku":"MP3 10932-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10932-4front.jpg?v=1751037324"},{"product_id":"wagner-walkure-lindholm-adam-jones-stein","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Lindholm, Adam, Jones, Brenneis, Reynolds, Ridderbusch; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is interesting to hear Berit Lindholm as Brünnhilde seven years after her initial outing in the role. In that time her voice had darkened and become more rich which works mostly to her benefit as the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde sits lower than any of others. The downside is that this added richness and weight seem to make getting to the upper extension a little more labored. Theo Adam returns as Wotan, a role he all but owned at Bayreuth for nearly a decade, and brings his signature virile poise to the part. Gwyneth Jones was about ready to make the switch to Brünnhilde and, sadly, the toll of the hochdramatische repertoire would begin to take a toll. However in 1973 she was still in command of her over-sized soprano and delivers some thrilling singing. Gerd Brenneis as Siegmund is on the more lyrical side of the spectrum which make for a very beautiful \u003cem\u003e\"Winterstürme.\"\u003c\/em\u003e The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10930-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666282120,"sku":"10930-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099264260,"sku":"MP3 10930-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10930-3front.jpg?v=1751037322"},{"product_id":"wagner-rheingold-adam-esser-reynolds-bode-ridderbusch-stein","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Adam, Reynolds, Esser, Bode, Ridderbusch, Zednik; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1973 marked the third year that this particular \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e was in circulation at Bayreuth. Although revivals often get a bad rap, at Bayreuth, where the casts are often consistent from year to year, the director will continue to work with the singers, restaging parts of the opera and exploring new dynamics between the characters. The result is a dynamic experience in which the singers and audience benefit from the rapport that the artists have established year after year without slipping into stale routine. Not that this cast of excellent singing actors would ever let that happen. Theo Adam is magnificent as Wotan and carries most of the show with ease. Karl Ridderbusch is also a stand-out as Fasolt as is Marga Höffgen as an earthy-voiced Erda. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10929-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666249352,"sku":"10929-2","price":10.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099239684,"sku":"MP3 10929-2","price":5.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10929-2front.jpg?v=1751037321"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-hofmann-randova-sotin-weikl-mazura-ridderbusch-stein-bayreuth","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Hofmann, Randova, Sotin, Weikl, Mazura, Ridderbusch; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those of you who have come to remember Peter Hofmann as a tenor whose voice never quite lived up to his physical appearance, you should give this early performance of \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e a try. Hofmann's voice has the same kind of burly lyricism as a young Jess Thomas. Sadly, like Thomas, that youthful sheen began to wear off as he started making recordings, leaving a legacy that is not entirely fair to his actual talents. Eva Randová is one of the wilder Kundrys I have heard and although it is exciting singing, I found myself wishing that she would occasionally paint with smaller strokes. Hans Sotin's mellifluous bass gives his Gurnemanz a youthful quality and the same can be said for Bernd Weikl's Amfortas. The sound is very good although there are a few brief drop-outs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10923-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292665888904,"sku":"10923-4","price":19.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099231236,"sku":"MP3 10923-4","price":10.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10923-4front_ba8e0fcb-67f3-45c4-9186-72d38873b3fe.jpg?v=1751037309"},{"product_id":"mozart-don-giovanni-jones-rysanek-siepi-alva-donath","title":"Mozart: Don Giovanni - Siepi, G. Jones, Alva, Donath, Lotte Rysanek, Fissore; Hager.  Wien, 1974","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCesare Siepi will always be associated with the role of Don Giovanni and this performance proves to back up that reputation.  He brings such suavity and charm to the role it is hard to tell if we aren't actually supposed to ultimately sympathize with the character.   He is joined by Gwyneth Jones who takes a rare turn in a Mozart role, a remarkable feat given that she was about to make her role debut as Brünnhilde in \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e.   She does not let that get in her way of singing an sublime Donna Anna, full of refulgent tone and spot on fioratura.   Helen Donath sings a spritely Zerlina, Lotte Rysanek (Leonie's sister) delivers a wild Elvira (there is definitely a family resemblance in the tone) and Luigi Alva delivers a poised Don Ottavio.   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Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven that \u003ci\u003eTristan und Isolde\u003c\/i\u003e was one of the few operas \u003cb\u003eCarlos Kleiber\u003c\/b\u003e conducted regularly, it is fortunate that several recordings exist to document his interpretation. Most of these feature \u003cb\u003eCatarina Ligendza\u003c\/b\u003e as Isolde. Her voice, though lighter than many who take on the role, is managed with admirable control and stamina, allowing her to carry the part through to the end with poise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, the true centerpiece of these performances is \u003cb\u003eSpas Wenkoff\u003c\/b\u003e as Tristan. His voice has a burnished quality, and his breath control is nothing short of extraordinary. He brings a tortured emotional intensity—never strained vocally—that fits the role perfectly. 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Bayreuth, 1969","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo other Wagner opera places as much demand on ensemble as \u003cem\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/em\u003e, not only from a musical standpoint but also in the intricate interplay of personal dynamics between the characters. This complexity often results in casts that may look impressive on paper but fail to truly connect, losing the essence of what makes Wagner’s most human opera so compelling. Thankfully, this stellar cast avoids that pitfall entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e embodies Hans Sachs, his gruff yet warm voice perfectly suited to the character’s avuncular nature. \u003cstrong\u003eHelga Dernesch\u003c\/strong\u003e, at the start of her career, brings a radiant tone to Eva Pogner. 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":"strauss-der-rosenkavalier-janowitz-fassbaender-cotrubas-ridderbusch-pretre","title":"Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - Janowitz, Fassbaender, Cotrubas, Ridderbusch, Luchetti, Helmsley; Prêtre.  Rai Napoli, 1971","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis recording of \u003cem\u003eDer Rosenkavalier\u003c\/em\u003e brings together an outstanding trio of women in the leading roles. \u003cstrong\u003eBrigitte Fassbaender\u003c\/strong\u003e, who dominated the role of Octavian in the 70s and 80s, delivers a portrayal that is both sensual and masculine, naïve yet insecure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGundula Janowitz\u003c\/strong\u003e shines as the Marschallin, a role she surprisingly did not perform more often. Her delicate tone and refined sensibility are perfectly suited to the character, offering a Marschallin who convincingly sounds like a young woman—after all, despite her musings on aging, the Marschallin is likely only in her 30s.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIleana Cotrubas\u003c\/strong\u003e brings winsome charm and inner sensuality to Sophie, her youthful exuberance peaking beautifully during the presentation of the rose, where her top notes bloom radiantly. \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Ridderbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a lumbering yet ultimately sympathetic Ochs, avoiding the trap of caricature by revealing glimpses of the aristocratic dignity hidden beneath his coarse exterior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe supporting cast is equally strong, with \u003cstrong\u003eVeriano Luchetti\u003c\/strong\u003e as a superb Italian Singer and \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Helmsley\u003c\/strong\u003e as an excellent Faninal. The sound quality is very good, though there are minor breaks in Act II.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10632-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292639805576,"sku":"10632-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099036420,"sku":"MP3 10632-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10632-3front.jpg?v=1751036707"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-windgassen-adam-martin-dernesch-neidlinger-maazel","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Adam, Martin, Dernesch, Windgassen, Neidlinger, Ridderbusch, Greindl; Maazel.  Bayreuth, 1968","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen excerpted in concert or \"highlights\" CDs, \u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e often gets overlooked. Apart from its triumphant finale, it lacks many of Wagner’s signature, show-stopping orchestral moments. However, \u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e is far more than the sum of a few grand opera numbers. Perhaps more than any other of Wagner's works, it epitomizes his ideal of \"Unendliche Melodie\" (unending melody). The entire opera unfolds as an accompagnato recitativo, meticulously crafted to mirror the natural inflection of speech and convey the text’s emotional nuances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis recording brings all these features to life through the exceptional performances of its singing actors. \u003cstrong\u003eTheo Adam\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a virile, youthful Wotan, striking a perfect balance between brashness and elegance. \u003cstrong\u003eJanis Martin\u003c\/strong\u003e lends her attractive and slender voice to Fricka, \u003cstrong\u003eHelga Dernesch\u003c\/strong\u003e embodies a winsome and voluptuous Freia, and \u003cstrong\u003eJosef Greindl\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Ridderbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e form an excellent pair of lumbering yet deeply sympathetic giants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe standout performance, however, comes from \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e as Loge. Free from the taxing demands of the heldentenor roles he typically tackled, he demonstrates that he was much more than a powerful voice. His nuanced portrayal adds depth and charisma to the trickster god.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConductor \u003cstrong\u003eLorin Maazel\u003c\/strong\u003e, though not primarily an opera specialist, shows remarkable insight into both the musical and dramatic pacing of the work. The sound quality is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10698-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292637282440,"sku":"10698-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099162180,"sku":"MP3 10698-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10698-2front.jpeg?v=1751036628"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-jones-thomas-ridderbusch-minton-keleman-boulez","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Jones, Thomas, Ridderbusch, Arvidson, Minton, Keleman; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’re a fan of Gwyneth Jones, this recording of \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e is an absolute treasure. It captures the Welsh soprano at the peak of her powers, combining immense dramatic intensity with the lyrical finesse that defined her early career. Her performance is nothing short of extraordinary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJess Thomas, though slightly past his prime and sounding somewhat dry, handles the demanding role of Siegfried with commendable skill. Karl Ridderbusch delivers an intriguing Hagen, portraying him with a stately cold-bloodedness that feels more calculated than unhinged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePierre Boulez’s conducting is inspired from start to finish, clearly energized by the caliber of the production and the stellar cast. The second act, in particular, is a tour de force—arguably the most thrilling rendition I’ve ever heard. The sound quality is excellent, and I’ve included the applause at the end, which features a prominent mix of cheers and boos. This recording is not only a testament to the performance but also a reminder of the uproar it sparked—complete with riots and police intervention. Not bad for a work celebrating its centennial at the time!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10749-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292635119752,"sku":"10749-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099217348,"sku":"MP3 10749-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10749-4front.jpeg?v=1751036563"},{"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. 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Parsifal is an opera that should have a feeling of existing in suspended animation, however, Boulez's brisk tempi give a naturalism and almost conversational rhythm to the vocal lines as well as capturing the youthful energy of the title character. Jean Cox, in my opinion, never got the recognition that he deserved in the heldentenor roles. His voice may not have had star-quality, but his approach in Wagner was always tasteful and his voice managed well with the demands of those roles. Amy Shuard is a wild Kundry without descending into caricature. Franz Crass's suave voice gives Gurnemanz a welcome youthful quality that you don't often hear in this role (René Pape being a present-day exception.) The cast is rounded out by Thomas Stewart as a heroic Amfortas and Donald McIntyre as Klingsor. 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He is joined by a stellar ensemble cast, including Anna Reynolds, who brings a sensitive vulnerability to Fricka, moving away from the character's typical shrewishness, and the outstanding Loge of Hermin Esser. Gustav Neidlinger’s Alberich may lack some of the brute force seen in other portrayals, but his characterization—much like McIntyre's—feels more nuanced and at times surprisingly sympathetic. Horst Stein’s conducting is fluid and meticulous, guiding the orchestra with subtlety so that it never overshadows the singers. 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Horst Stein gives enormous attention to the melodic lyricism of this opera finding musical lines even in the most bombastic moments.  The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10801-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633219208,"sku":"10801-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099203908,"sku":"MP3 10801-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10801-3front.jpg?v=1751036492"},{"product_id":"wagner-ring-jones-mcintyre-cox-king-napier-ridderbusch-reynolds-stein","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen (EXCERPTS) - Jones, Cox, McIntyre, Ridderbusch, King, Napier, Reynolds; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1975","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may be asking why you need another \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e and the answer is quite simple: Horst Stein. Stein was a conductor who never really rose to the top but, in my opinion, deserves a place next to the great Wagnerian interpreters of his day. Stein's approach was unfussy and free of mannerisms which in the era of Karajan and Knappertsbusch is quite refreshing. Instead, he brought a keen ear to the musical line and manages to shape even some of the most bombastic music into lyrical melodies. This approach seems to benefit the singers enormously. The tempos are fleet while remaining elastic and whereas many conductors get lured in by the detail of the orchestration, the vocal line remains for Stein the driving force of the music. His efforts benefit enormously from a stellar cast including Gwyneth Jones as Brünnhilde, Jean Cox as Siegmund Karl Ridderbusch as Fasolt, Hunding and Hagen and James King as Siegmund. 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I will never forget the sensation of hearing her voice open up at \u003cem\u003e\"Zu neuen Taten.\"\u003c\/em\u003e As the evening progressed it seemed as if there was no end to her vocal reserves and needless to say I became an instant Wagnerian. This recording taken about twenty years earlier finds her in even greater voice and she fearlessly (and almost recklessly) plows through the almost-impossible vocal writing of Act II as if no one told her that singing Wagner can be bad for your voice. Jean Cox is a sturdy Siegfried and displays that he even had a respectable high-C. Karl Ridderbusch is a formidable Hagen and brings a touch of elegance to the part that you rarely hear. Franz Mazura and Anna Reynolds make equally worthy contributions as Gunther and Waltraute respectively. Although the sound is for the most part very good there are about a dozen moments where the recording will jump about a second. This happens mostly during the first half hour or so of the opera. That said, if you can brace yourself for a few bumps in the road I think you will really enjoy this stunning performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10803-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292632825992,"sku":"10803-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099216900,"sku":"MP3 10803-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10803-4front.jpg?v=1751036478"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-jones-cox-mcintyre-ridderbusch-king-stein-bayreuth-1975","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Jones, Cox, McIntyre, Ridderbusch, King; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1975","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may be asking why you need another \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e and the answer is quite simple: Horst Stein. Stein was a conductor who never really rose to the top but, in my opinion, deserves a place next to the great Wagnerian interpreters of his day. Stein’s approach was unfussy and free of mannerisms which in the era of Karajan and Knappertsbusch is quite refreshing. Instead, he brought a keen ear to the musical line and manages to shape even some of the most bombastic music into lyrical melodies. This approach seems to benefit the singers enormously. The tempos are fleet while remaining elastic and whereas many conductors get lured in by the detail of the orchestration, the vocal line remains for Stein the driving force of the music. His efforts benefit enormously from a stellar cast including Gwyneth Jones as Brünnhilde, Jean Cox as Siegmund Karl Ridderbusch as Fasolt, Hunding and Hagen and James King as Siegmund. The sound for the most part is also quite good with one caveat: During \u003cem\u003eRheingold\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e the music occasionally jumps a second. These moments are indeed jarring but are rather infrequent in the context of the whole opera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10804-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292632793224,"sku":"10804-12","price":59.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099169476,"sku":"MP3 10804-12","price":31.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10804-12front.jpg?v=1751036476"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-sotin-denize-ridderbusch-keleman-ehrling","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Sotin, Denize, Steinbach, Keleman, Ridderbusch, Hendricx; Ehrling.  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Even without being in the theater, if one takes the time to sit down and listen to the whole thing over the course of a week, one comes out of the experience with a clear idea for both the music director’s and even the stage director’s vision for what is probably the largest work of art ever created. This performance captures a mix of legends like Leonie Rysanek, James King, Helga Dernesch, and Theo Adam, with some artists that, although brilliant, didn’t become superstars. Stand-outs include Gladys Kuchta and Berit Lindholm who split the role of Brünnhilde as well as the Wanderer of Josef Greindl. Greindl mainly stuck to villains like Hagen and Hunding, so hearing him have a chance to be the nice guy as well as sing some nice melodies is a treat. The smaller parts are filled with some incredibly talented singers included the Gutrune and Freia of Helga Dernesch, the Gunther of Thomas Stewart and a cameo appearance featuring Erika Köth as the Forest Bird. The musical direction by Lorin Maazel is simply first rate both for his support of the singers and the overall pacing of the drama, making this one of my favorite live \u003cem\u003eRing Cycles\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10844-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292630499464,"sku":"10844-12","price":59.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099173700,"sku":"MP3 10844-12","price":31.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10844-12front.jpeg?v=1751036427"},{"product_id":"wagner-tannhauser-kassel-norman-veasey-bailey-ridderbusch-davis","title":"Wagner: Tannhäuser - Kassel, Norman, Veasey, Bailey, Ridderbusch; Davis.  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In the 70′s her voice has all of the richness she would become known for, coupled with a remarkable security in her upper range. Josephine Veasey offers a lush and alluring Venus equally comfortable in the dramatic outbursts as in the delicate lyric singing. Wolfgang Kassel was a last minute replacement in the title roll and he gets the job done admirably (although his somewhat dowdy tone makes it is hard to see why these women would be that taken with him.) Norman Bailey and Karl Ridderbusch are also quite good as Wolfram and Landgraf. 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Youthful tone seems to be the unifying factor in this cast. Anna Reynold's Fricka has a winsome quality which is a welcome contrast to the usual fishwife approach of many of her colleagues. Janis Martin's soprano is radiant in the role of Freia. The over all effect is that one gets the sense of a group of young people trying to make sense of their new-found wealth and power, making this a very compelling prologue to the rest of the tetrology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10857-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292630302856,"sku":"10857-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099156932,"sku":"MP3 10857-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10857-2front.jpg?v=1751036420"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-ligendza-adam-jones-brilioth-reynolds-stein","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Ligendza, Adam, Jones, Brilioth, Reynolds, Ridderbusch; Stein.  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In 1971, Jones was poised to graduate to the role of Brünnhilde although Sieglinde was still an excellent fit for her rich soprano. Brilioth's voice is virile and youthful. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10858-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292630270088,"sku":"10858-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099205572,"sku":"MP3 10858-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10858-3front.jpg?v=1751036419"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-ligendza-cox-ridderbusch-mazura-neidlinger-stein","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Ligendza, Cox, Ridderbusch, Mazura, Neidlinger, Martin; Stein.  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Karl Ridderbusch is near perfection as Hagen. His voice, although black, still has a touch of class and glamor to it. His Hagen is more conniving player, than hulking brute. Franz Mazura is heard to great effect as Gunther. By the time the Boulez \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e was recorded his voice was already a bit rough around the edges, which was not the case when this recording was made. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10860-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292630204552,"sku":"10860-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099217604,"sku":"MP3 10860-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10860-4front.jpg?v=1751036417"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-ligendza-adam-cox-jones-brilioth-stein-bayreuth-1971","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Ligendza, Adam, Cox, Jones, Brilioth; Stein.  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She is particularly effective in the tender scenes with Wotan in Act III of \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e and undaunted by the dramatic demands of Act II of \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e. Theo Adam’s Wotan was always on the baritonal side of the spectrum which works to his advantage in \u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/em\u003e. You really get this sense that this young god is making everything up as he goes along. Jean Cox sings as well as I have ever heard him, highlighting the lyricism of the part. Gwyneth Jones is a sensual Sieglinde and well paired with the vocally (and physically) dashing Siegmund of Helge Brilioth. Karl Ridderbusch shows up in many different roles throughout the cycle most notably as Hagen. Franz Mazura, Janis Martin and Anna Reynolds round out the cast as Gunther, Freia and Fricka respectively. Horst Stein seems inspired by the youthful cast and delivers an energetic reading. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10861-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292630171784,"sku":"10861-12","price":59.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099173764,"sku":"MP3 10861-12","price":31.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10861-12front.jpg?v=1751036416"},{"product_id":"wagner-ring-excerpts-ligendza-cox-adam-jones-brilioth-ridderbusch-stein","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen (EXCERPTS) - Ligendza, Adam, Cox, Jones, Brilioth, Ridderbusch; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1971","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn a world where Wagner fans have become accustomed to tolerating middle aged, overweight singers playing young heroes and heroines, this recording is a much welcome change of pace as the entire cast produces one of the most youthful \u003cem\u003eRings\u003c\/em\u003e I have ever heard. And although at times we have to forgo the power that Nilsson or Flagstad brought to their roles, it is more than made up for by the verisimilitude that these singers bring to their parts. As Brünnhilde, Catarina Ligendza brings a pure tone with no shortage of power, and miraculously bridges the naive quality of the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde with the sensuality of the \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde into a cohesive and complete character. She is particularly effective in the tender scenes with Wotan in Act III of \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e and undaunted by the dramatic demands of Act II of \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e. Theo Adam's Wotan was always on the baritonal side of the spectrum which works to his advantage in \u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eDas Walküre.\u003c\/em\u003e You really get this sense that this young god is making everything up as he goes along. Jean Cox sings as well as I have ever heard him, highlighting the lyricism of the part. Gwyneth Jones is a sensual Sieglinde and well paired with the vocally (and physically) dashing Siegmund of Helge Brilioth. Karl Ridderbusch shows up in many different roles throughout the cycle most notably as Hagen. Franz Mazura, Janis Martin and Anna Reynolds round out the cast as Gunther, Freia and Fricka respectively. Horst Stein seems inspired by the youthful cast and delivers an energetic reading. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10862-1\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292630139016,"sku":"10862-1","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099241924,"sku":"MP3 10862-1","price":3.57,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10862-1front.jpg?v=1751036414"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-lindholm-schroder-feinen-ligendza-cox-adam-ridderbusch-jones-brenneis-stein-bayreuth-1973","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Lindholm, Schröder-Feinen, Ligendza, Cox, Adam, Ridderbusch, Jones, Brenneis; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not uncommon for two sopranos to split duties as Brünnhilde in the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e, but I have never come across a complete cycle inhabited by three different Brünnhildes. It had originally been intended for Berit Lindholm to sing the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhildes and Catarina Ligendza to sing the \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde, but Lindholm fell ill before the performance of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e giving Ursula Schröder-Feinen, who was still relatively unknown at the time, the opportunity to show off her Wagnerian chops. And some mighty fine chops they are, I might add. For my part Schröder-Feinen nearly steals the entire Cycle, tackling the shortest, but arguably most difficult, role in the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e with seeming ease. Her top is gleaming with seemingly endless reserves and she is able to scale back her voice for the more intimate moments. That is not to short-change the achievements of her colleagues. Lindholm struggles a little at first with the \u003cem\u003eWalkür\u003c\/em\u003ee Brünnhilde but quickly settles into things revealing an alluring, auburn color to her voice, which brought to my mind a young Astrid Varnay. Catarina Ligendza returns for her third summer as Brünnhilde at Bayreuth and seems more confident and secure than ever. It is unclear to me how well her voice may have cut through the orchestra, but she manages the treacherous role with impressive security and a youthful quality that is all too rare in Wagner. The rest of the cast is very good. Theo Adam sings Wotan, Gwyneth Jones is Sieglinde, Jean Cox delivers a dashing Siegfried (replete with an impressive high C in \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e). The smaller roles are no less distinguished, including the likes of Eva Randovà as Gutrune, Franz Mazura as Gunther and Marga Höffgen as Erda. The sound is very good and the performances are complete except for about 30 seconds of music at the beginning of \"Ewig war ich\" in Act III of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10933-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292627943560,"sku":"10933-12","price":59.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099175172,"sku":"MP3 10933-12","price":31.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10933-12front.jpg?v=1751036363"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-dernesch-thomas-ridderbusch-stewart-janowitz-karajan","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Dernesch, Thomas, Ridderbusch, Stewart, Janowitz, Ludwig, Ligendza, Moser; Karajan.  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The warmth of Dernesch's voice remains consistent throughout the entire evening even during the most dramatic singing and if at times her voice can seem a little monochromatic, her default vocal color has enough interest to sustain one through the many hours of Wagner. By the 1970s the youthful sheen of Jess Thomas' voice was beginning to fade. Although he is remarkably sturdy, the frayed edges of his heldentenor are all to apparent. Karl Ridderbusch is a stand-out as Hagen. Ridderbusch is no stranger to lovers of the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e, having made this role a staple of his long career, however, Karajan compels him to give some very delicate (not a word often associated with Hagen) singing particularly in his scene with Alberich which left me fantasizing about what his \u003cem\u003eWinterreise\u003c\/em\u003e might have been like. Thomas Stewart is glorious as Gunther. The real star of the evening is the maestro and whether or not you have issues with Karajan's unconventional casting, the musicality that he evokes from the orchestra is a true revelation. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11009-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292625977480,"sku":"11009-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099214020,"sku":"MP3 11009-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11009-4front.jpg?v=1751036298"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-thomas-dernesch-stolze-stewart-grist-ridderbusch-karajan","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Thomas, Dernesch, Stolze, Stewart, Ridderbusch, Grist; Karajan. Salzburg, 1969","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis recording of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e is almost identical to the studio release that came out around the same time. Although there is some remarkable singing, the star of the evening is Herbert von Karajan. Karajan's ability to create mood and atmosphere while still maintaining a sense of line and lyricism made him ideal for Wagner. His orchestra, although rich with minute detail and shading, never eclipses the singer, instead providing them with a cushion of support throughout the evening. Jess Thomas is just a little past his prime to be an effective Siegfried. Although he manages all of the notes and his stamina doesn't flag throughout the evening, the lyrical bloom of his early years has all but completely faded resulting in a Siegfried that sounds more middle-aged than teen-aged. Thomas Stewart almost has the reverse problem as the Wanderer as his ringing baritone lacks a little of the world-wary gravitas of other notable Wanderers. However, it is very easy to forgive him, as he delivers one of the most beautifully sung Wotans I have ever come across. Gerhard Stolze delivers a Mime that is almost infinitely nuanced and at times manages to garner more sympathy than Siegfried. The one interesting variation from the DG set is that the Waldvolgel is sung by Reri Grist. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11013-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292625813640,"sku":"11013-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099251140,"sku":"MP3 11013-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11013-3front.jpg?v=1751036294"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-herbert-von-karajan-dietrich-fischer-dieskau-veasey-stolze-ridderbusch","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Fischer-Dieskau, Veasey, Stolze, Talvela, Ridderbusch, Dominguez; Karajan. Salzburg, 1968","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnyone who treasures the Karajan \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e will appreciate this live performance featuring practically everyone in the cast. It is interesting because minus the wizardry of the recording engineers, it provides a more honest accounting of how the artists would fair without the comfort of a close microphone. Surprisingly, they all do remarkably well in particular the Wotan of Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau. Fischer-Dieskau brings all of his interpretive prowess to the role, and is remarkably credible when pitted against the formidable forces of Wagner's orchestra. Josephine Veasey brings her youthful, shimmering tone to the role of Fricka giving the goddess a well-needed touch of glamor. Gerhard Stolze's Loge may lack the vocal beauty of someone like Wolfgang Windgassen, but he more than makes up for it with the infinitive shading with which he imbues each word, giving the demigod a mercurial sprightliness. Other standouts include Martti Talvela who brings the heart of a poet to Fasolt contrasted by the gruff Fafner of Karl Ridderbusch. Oralia Dominguez is arresting in her brief turn as Erda. Herbert von Karajan finds details in the score that I had never heard before. The sound is pristine!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11018-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292625649800,"sku":"11018-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099159172,"sku":"MP3 11018-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11018-2front.jpg?v=1751036288"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-crespin-stewart-dernesch-fischer-dieskau-janowitz-vickers-karajan-salzburg-1967-1970","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Crespin, Stewart, Dernesch, Fischer-Dieskau, Janowitz, Vickers; Karajan.  Salzburg, 1967-1970","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnyone who treasures the Karajan \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e will appreciate this live performance featuring practically everyone in the cast. It is interesting because minus the wizardry of the recording engineers, it provides a more honest accounting of how the artists would fair without the comfort of a close microphone. Surprisingly, they all do remarkably well in particular the Wotan of Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau. Fischer-Dieskau brings all of his interpretive prowess to the role, and is remarkably credible when pitted against the formidable forces of Wagner's orchestra. Josephine Veasey brings her youthful, shimmering tone to the role of Fricka giving the goddess a well-needed touch of glamor. Gerhard Stolze's Loge may lack the vocal beauty of someone like Wolfgang Windgassen, but he more than makes up for it with the infinitive shading with which he imbues each word, giving the demigod a mercurial sprightliness. Other standouts include Martti Talvela who brings the heart of a poet to Fasolt contrasted by the gruff Fafner of Karl Ridderbusch. Oralia Dominguez is arresting in her brief turn as Erda. Herbert von Karajan finds details in the score that I had never heard before. The sound is pristine!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e in Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDie Walküre, Siegfried\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e in Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11020-13\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292625584264,"sku":"11020-13","price":64.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099168580,"sku":"MP3 11020-13","price":33.57,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11020-13front.jpg?v=1751036285"},{"product_id":"wagner-ring-nibelungen-excerpts-fischer-dieskau-dernesch-thomas-janowitz-vickers-stewart-herbert-von-karajan","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen (EXCERPTS) - Crespin, Stewart, Dernesch, Fischer-Dieskau; Karajan.  Salzburg, 1967-1970","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e is an excellent addition for anyone who treasures Herbert von Karajan's studio recording made in the late 60s. Without the aid of the microphones and recording engineers, the singers, many of whom were singing their roles for the first and only time, are put to the true test of whether or not they could stand up to the enormous demands of Wagner's music. Surprisingly, for the most part they all match the quality of performances that they created in the comfort of the studio while also bringing an added level of excitement and energy that cannot be replicated anywhere but in front of a live audience. They are all supported by the sensitive and sympathetic conducting of Herbert von Karajan who never compromises on insisting upon the same the level of transparency that he achieves in the studio recording. Special accolades go to \u003cem\u003eRheingold\u003c\/em\u003e Wotan of Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau. Fischer-Dieskau's baritone was far from dramatic in nature, but he is actually quite credible as the head god. Régine Crespin brings lush tone and the sensitivity of an art song specialist to the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde. Helga Dernesch employs her powerful yet youthful soprano to the subsequent Brünnhildes. Jess Thomas' Siegfried is the one disappointment in the \u003cem\u003eCycle.\u003c\/em\u003e Although there are traces of the lyricism that made him such an effective Parsifal, the wear and tear sustained from a decade of Wagner singing makes for a Siegfried that seems more middle-aged than youthful. I would run out of space if I went on at length on the merits of the rest of the cast so I will just let the glittering assortment speak for itself: Thomas Stewart, Jon Vickers, Gundula Janowitz, Christa Ludwig, Martti Talvela, Karl Ridderbusch, Gerhard Stolze, Catarina Ligendza, Oralia Dominguez, Josephine Veasey, Edda Moser, Reri Grist, etc. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e in Stereo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eDie Walküre, Siegfried\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e in Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11021-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292625387656,"sku":"11021-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099242948,"sku":"MP3 11021-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11021-2front.jpg?v=1751036276"},{"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. The performance is captured in superb stereo sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11096-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292622143624,"sku":"11096-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099196996,"sku":"MP3 11096-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11096-4front.jpg?v=1751036195"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-theo-adam-janis-martin-zoltan-kelemen-wolfgang-sawallisch","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Adam, Kelemen, Martin, Ridderbusch, Dominguez; Sawallisch. 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As part of the whole, this \u003cem\u003eRheingold\u003c\/em\u003e points to a intriguing, well-sung reading of the cycle, but it stands on its own as a highly entertaining recording of the opera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11129-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292620406920,"sku":"11129-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099161668,"sku":"MP3 11129-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11129-2front.jpg?v=1751036156"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-adam-jean-cox-kniplova-ridderbusch-oralia-dominguez-wolfgang-sawallisch","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Cox, Adam, Kniplová, Wohlfahrt; Sawallisch. 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Karl Ridderbusch is a sonorous dragon, although he does without any of the usual booming sound effects, and Oralia Dominguez repeats her equally sonorous Erda from \u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold.\u003c\/em\u003e When she arrives in act three Naděžda Kniplová blasts through the orchestra in a brilliant but occasionally strident rendition of the awakening scene, and ends the opera with a ringing high C (Cox decides not to take the higher option, leaving Kniplová to declare victory in the \"highly competitive\" love duet, as Anna Russell would put it.) Only Ingrid Paller's disappointing wood bird mars this fleet, exciting recording of Wagner's most adventurous opera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11131-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292620341384,"sku":"11131-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099243524,"sku":"MP3 11131-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11131-3front.jpg?v=1751036153"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-kniplova-cox-adam-ridderbusch-dalis-hillebrecht-martin-sawallisch-roma-1968","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Kniplová, Cox, Adam, Ridderbusch, Dalis, Hillebrecht, Martin; Sawallisch. 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Naděžda Kniplová sings Brünnhilde and brings a rich slavic quality, faring equally well in delivering lyrical opulence as well as dramatic punch. Jean Cox would own the role of Siegfried in the 70s, and like many tenors who go the dramatic route, that direction would ultimately take a toll on the lyrical nature of his instrument. This performance, however, captures him in fresh voice which helps to convey the character’s boyishness. Theo Adam delivers a magisterial Wotan, Janis Martin offers a calculating Fricka and Irene Dalis delivers one of the greatest Waltraute scenes I have ever heard. Additional kudos go to the Fafner of Karl Ridderbusch, the Alberich of Zoltan Kelemen and the lush Erda of Oralia Dominguez. 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She was a dramatic soprano in the true sense of the word and unleashes hellfire on the unsuspecting Gibichungs in Act II in a way I have never heard from a soprano past or present. \u003cb\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/b\u003e finds himself in fine form in the title role of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e, bringing a ringing tenor voice and youthful demeanor. 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Although the voice is fresher than it was in the Phillips recording and at times quite pleasing, there is a monochromaticism to both voice and demeanor that makes for some very long monologues. \u003cb\u003eKarl Ridderbusch\u003c\/b\u003e is a little past his prime but nonetheless brings all of his brooding menace to the role of Hagen. \u003cb\u003eYvonne Minton\u003c\/b\u003e is quite welcome in the role of Waltraute, delivering a narrative that is both impressively sung and vivid in its depiction of the end of the gods. The fleet tempos that \u003cb\u003ePierre Boulez\u003c\/b\u003e takes in the Phillips release seem relaxed by a few clicks of the metronome in this performance. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11194-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292615360648,"sku":"11194-4","price":20.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099217156,"sku":"MP3 11194-4","price":11.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11194-4front.jpg?v=1751036075"},{"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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Every piece of this intricate puzzle seems to rise to the daunting challenge, creating a synergy of creative focus that is rarely achieved in a work requiring hundreds of singers and musicians. Karl Ridderbusch, famous for his villains, delivers a surprisingly human-scale Sachs, alternating seamlessly between the conversational and the lyrical composition styles. Gundula Janowitz’s ethereal soprano fares better in the shimmering lyricism of Eva’s music than the dramatic outbursts, but she crafts a well-rounded character that goes beyond “central casting ingenue.” James King brings youthful ardor and sterling tone to Walther von Stolzing, faring equally well in the dramatic moments in the Act II duet with Eva as in the lyrical, high-lying \u003cem\u003ePreislied\u003c\/em\u003e. Kurt Moll lends his elegant bass to the role of Veit Pogner and despite a moment of vocal insecurity in his Act II monolog recovers well for the balance of the opera. Heinz Zednik is a wiry, charming David. 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While a slight fading of the bloom in her once sterling soprano is evident, she conveys the character’s inner conflict with subtle nuances that enrich the emotional layers of the role. \u003cb\u003eKarl Ridderbusch’s\u003c\/b\u003e portrayal of Ochs is appropriately boorish, yet with a touch of elegance that prevents the character from descending into caricature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11314-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292607627400,"sku":"11314-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098811780,"sku":"MP3 11314-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11314-3front.jpg?v=1751035907"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-ingrid-bjoner-jean-cox-karl-ridderbusch-astrid-varnay-ruth-falcon-wolfgang-sawallisch","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Bjoner, Cox, Ridderbusch, Nöcker, Kelemen, Wenkel, Varnay, Hillebrecht; Sawallisch. 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