{"title":"BÖHME, Kurt","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"der-ring-des-nibelungen-bohm-1965","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Nilsson, Adam, Windgassen, Rysanek, King; Böhm.  Bayreuth, 1965","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite the enormous achievement of the Solti \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e, Birgit Nilsson always maintained that she preferred her performance on the Böhm \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e issued by Phillips from the 1966 and 1967 seasons at Bayreuth. She felt that there was an excitement that came through in this live performance which was lost in the many takes that Solti, ever the perfectionist, insisted upon. Although I love the Solti \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e, I have always agreed with Nilsson in her assessment that the Böhm's reading had a fire that Solti's technicolor \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e lacked. This performance comes from when the production was new and sports many of the same singers with a few interesting and welcome variations. Birgit Nilsson and Wolfgang Windgassen are simply brilliant as Brünnhilde and Siegfried. There was a chemistry that these two artists had together that created an electricity that was even greater than the sum of their combined artistry. Leonie Rysanek delivers a wild, passionate Sieglinde and she is joined by James King, who in my opinion, is one of the greatest Siegmund's to ever have walked the earth. Theo Adam takes on the younger Wotans while Josef Greindl sings the Wanderer in \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e. This practice has fallen out of favor somewhat, but it works well here since Adam's baritonal Wotan plays much younger than Josef Greindl avuncular yet world-weary bass (in the Phillips version Adam would sing all three Wotans). Other variations in casting from the Phillips release all add up to net gains. Lili Chookasian steps in as Erda and delivers rich earthy tones. Martti Talvela treats us to one of the most suave Hundings you are likely to hear anywhere and Kerstin Meyer takes the place of Martha Mödl as Waltraute. Despite my devotion to Mödl, Meyer's voice is much fresher than Mödl's. To go into depth on all the great singers who participated in this Cycle would take up more room than I permit myself in these blurbs, but additional kudos must go to Anja Silja as Freia, Thomas Stewart as one of the greatest Gunthers ever, Ludmila Dvorakova as Gutrune, and Martti Talvela's dignified Fasolt. Karl Böhm's fleet tempos give Wagner's massive orchestra a lightness that is difficult to achieve and whereas other conductors often get seduced by the lush colors of the orchestration, Böhm always lets the vocal line dictate the pacing, giving the singers a chance to sing the text with an organic quality more akin to the natural cadence of the German. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10910-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292667035784,"sku":"10910-12","price":99.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098661572,"sku":"MP3 10910-12","price":51.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10910-12front.jpg?v=1751037337"},{"product_id":"strauss-die-frau-ohne-schatten-rysanek-hopf-schech-metternich-benningsen-kempe-munchen-1954","title":"Strauss: Die Frau ohne Schatten - Rysanek, Hopf, Schech, Metternich, Benningsen; Kempe.  München, 1954","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf the performances of \u003cem\u003eDie Frau ohne Schatten\u003c\/em\u003e I have heard, this is one of the most successful at making sense out of an otherwise obtuse fairy tale. This is due in no small part to the stellar cast and the youthful energy they bring to their parts. Leonie Rysanek is captured before Abigaille and other roles that she took on in the 60s would rob her of the youthful purity of her voice. Her voice has an alluring silvery shimmer that is consistent during her most dramatic outbursts as well as the almost miraculously delicate pianissimos. She is well paired with Marianne Schech who sings the Dyer's Wife. Schech's voice always reminded me of Rysanek's. Although a shade brighter, it had the same kind of electric excitement on top. Hans Hopf highlights the lyricism of the Emperor even during some of the most athletic singing. Josef Metternich's approach to Barak is similarly lyrical, making for some very beautiful moments in Act III when he is searching for his wife. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10940-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666937480,"sku":"10940-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099044420,"sku":"MP3 10940-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10940-3front.jpg?v=1751037334"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-windgassen-nilsson-greindl-wohlfahrt-neidlinger-bohme-chookasian-bohm-bayreuth-1965","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Windgassen, Nilsson, Greindl, Wohlfahrt, Neidlinger, Böhme, Chookasian; Böhm.  Bayreuth, 1965","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust a year before the famous Philips release of the Böhm \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e, this performance proves to be a very satisfying dry-run. The cast is almost identical with the very notable exception of Josef Greindl as the Wanderer. Greindl's voice could not have been more different than his colleague, Theo Adam, who would take over the role the following year. Greindl was a true bass and with a black color which made him a fantastic Hagen. Surprisingly he displays a softer side as the Elder Wotan and copes remarkably with the higher parts of this role. Wolfgang Windgassen takes the title role. Windgassen sounds as fresh as ever and creates a Siegfried that leans more towards inexperienced hero as opposed to spoiled brat. Birgit Nilsson is well worth the wait in her final scene. The voice seems to have endless power and security on top and she seems to relish holding the final C as long as possible.  It is also worth mentioning Lili Chookasian whose brief appearence as Erda in Act III is quite memorable.  (She was not featured on the Phillips release.)  The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10908-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666806408,"sku":"10908-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099251524,"sku":"MP3 10908-3","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10908-3front.jpg?v=1751037330"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-dvorakova-bjoner-fliethner-kozub-veasey-downes","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Dvorakova, Fliether, Bjoner, Kozub, Veasey, Böhme; Downes.  London, 1967","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s remarkable how much great Wagner was emerging from London in the 1960s. Perhaps it was the influence of \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e, or simply an influx of fresh talent, but whatever the reason, audiences were treated to outstanding performances year after year — and this performance is no exception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cast features a roster of singers woefully underrepresented on recording. \u003cstrong\u003eLudmila Dvořáková\u003c\/strong\u003e is exceptional in the title role. It’s almost baffling how a singer with such a contralto-like vocal color could manage such reliability in the upper register. \u003cstrong\u003eIngrid Bjoner\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a radiant and winsome Sieglinde, beautifully paired with the Siegmund of \u003cstrong\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/strong\u003e. Both singers possessed lyrical instruments with a kind of built-in vocal overdrive, making Wagner’s frequent outbursts thrilling without sacrificing the essential lyricism woven into his writing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHerbert Fliether\u003c\/strong\u003e proves himself a Wotan of real substance. While it’s hard to gauge the size of his voice from this recording, the essential vocal qualities of a great Wotan are unmistakably present. He sings with full-bodied tone throughout the evening, never resorting to pushing, even in Wotan’s notoriously punishing final lines — a moment that has defeated more than a few baritones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNEW MASTER:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e-Pitch Corrected. Continuity improved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10599-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292641509512,"sku":"10599-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099201988,"sku":"MP3 10599-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50262641017153,"sku":"FLAC 10599-4","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10599-3front.jpg?v=1751036762"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-thomas-silja-wiener-schippers","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Thomas, Silja, Wiener; Schippers.  Bayreuth, 1963","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is rare to find a cast in a Wagner opera that can convincingly convey youth on stage. In this production of \u003cem\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/em\u003e, youthful energy radiates from the performances of \u003cstrong\u003eAnja Silja\u003c\/strong\u003e as Eva and \u003cstrong\u003eJess Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e as Walther. Their vibrant portrayals bring added vitality to Wagner’s most human opera, heightening the poignancy when the elder Sachs must relinquish his dream of a life with Eva.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOtto Wiener\u003c\/strong\u003e handles the demanding role of Sachs with skill, supported by a wonderfully colorful cast of Meistersingers. When I saw that \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Schippers\u003c\/strong\u003e was conducting, I expected an excessively brisk interpretation, but this performance is anything but rushed. Schippers masterfully conveys the expansive breadth of Wagner’s melodies. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10680-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292637839496,"sku":"10680-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099198660,"sku":"MP3 10680-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10680-4front.jpg?v=1751036651"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-windgassen-dalis-london-hotter-knappertsbusch","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Windagssen, Dalis, London, Hotter, Böhme; Knapperstbusch.  Bayreuth, 1963","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis performance of \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e is another installment in the legendary series of \u003cstrong\u003eHans Knappertsbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eParsifals\u003c\/em\u003e from Bayreuth in the 1950s and 1960s. This time, the title role is performed by \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e, who is at his very best as Parsifal. Though celebrated for his Siegfried and Tristan, \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e demonstrates here that his voice was fundamentally a lyrical instrument, making him ideally suited to this role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIrene Dalis\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a legendary Kundry, widely regarded as one of the best on record. While she occasionally struggles in this performance compared to her earlier years, she compensates with an increased sense of dramatic abandon. \u003cstrong\u003eGeorge London\u003c\/strong\u003e portrays a stoic Amfortas, his voice remaining in excellent form despite a few strained high notes. \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e, as Gurnemanz, may lack the profound depth of other basses, but this quality lends his portrayal an everyman authenticity that works beautifully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnder \u003cstrong\u003eHans Knappertsbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e, the pacing is masterful, balancing moments of luxuriant reflection with forward-driving momentum that sustains both the music and the drama. The sound quality is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10694-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292637413512,"sku":"10694-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099238788,"sku":"MP3 10694-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10694-4front.jpg?v=1751036635"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-greindl-silja-konya-bohme-bohm","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Greindl, Silja, Konya, Alexander, Böhme; Böhm.  Bayreuth, 1964","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis outstanding performance of \u003cem\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/em\u003e brings together a superb cast, blending the vitality of youth with the wisdom of experience. Representing the younger generation is Anja Silja as the enchanting Eva Pogner. Her gleaming voice and vibrant portrayal radiate youthful energy, capturing Eva’s charm and innocence perfectly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the veteran side, Sándor Kónya shines as Walther von Stolzing, delivering one of the most exquisitely sung Preislieds I’ve ever heard—an absolute highlight of the performance. Josef Greindl, with his deep, resonant bass, initially seems an unconventional choice for Hans Sachs. However, any reservations are quickly dispelled by his portrayal, which brims with warmth, intelligence, and humanity, offering a refreshingly benevolent take on the character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sound quality is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10724-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292636496008,"sku":"10724-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099189572,"sku":"MP3 10724-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10724-4front_6dc0b791-0884-490b-bea3-d288e0434cf7.jpg?v=1751036600"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-hotter-boese-holm-kraus-bohme-konwitschny","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Hotter, Boese, Holm, Kraus, Böhme, Höffgen; Konwitschny.  London, 1959","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e is the one opera in the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e that is truly an ensemble piece. It features many extended scenes with multiple characters delivering exposition that will create the framework for the ensuing evenings. To pull it off it requires a cast of great singing actors and when one is assembled it can create a dramatic experience more akin to a great play than an opera. This performance has just that, headed by the Wotan of Hans Hotter who sings with majesty and sensitivity. Otakar Kraus, a singer whose career centered mostly around Covent Garden, delivers a masterful performance as Alberich favoring a more sympathetic interpretation over the overblown caricature that has become the norm. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10828-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292631220360,"sku":"10828-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099159492,"sku":"MP3 10828-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10828-2front.jpg?v=1751036457"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-varnay-hotter-shuard-vinay-boese-bohme-konwitschny","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Varnay, Hotter, Shuard, Vinay, Boese, Böhme, Konwitschny.  London, 1959","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou wonder if the audience at this performance in 1959 understood that what they were hearing was about as close to perfection as Wagner ever comes. To have all of the main roles cast with singers who would go down in history as some of the finest Wagnerians of their generation seems almost impossible today (not to say that there aren't some very fine Wagnerians out there.) Astrid Varnay is magnificent as Brünnhilde right from her entrance and delivers a nuanced and subtle performance well paired to the dramatic sensitivity of Hans Hotter. The two create one of the most intimate final scenes I have ever heard. As the Wälsungen, we are treated to a young Amy Shuard as Sieglinde and Ramón Vinay as Siegmund. Although Shuard possessed a voice of considerable power, the strength of her singing never came at the expense of beauty and lyricism creating a Sieglinde aligned with the tradition of Lotte Lehmann and Frida Leider. Ramón Vinay was about a year away from transitioning to baritone and you do get the sense that at times navigating the passaggio seems a little more labored than in did in the early 50s. Regardless, the baritonal richness of his voice remains intact and given the lower nature of this role, he manages admirably. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10829-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292631187592,"sku":"10829-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099213572,"sku":"MP3 10829-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10829-3front.jpg?v=1751036456"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-varnay-hotter-windgassen-shuard-vinay-frick-konwitschny-london-1959","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Varnay, Hotter, Windgassen, Shuard, Vinay, Frick; Konwitschny.   London, 1959","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, this year has been a big year for \u003cem\u003eThe Ring\u003c\/em\u003e. I have now remastered seven complete cycles. Remarkably, I have found that every time I encounter a new performance it is almost like hearing it for the first time and I am amazed given the formidable obstacles in presenting this work, just how malleable it is and, unlike other works, how there will never truly be a definitive interpretation. Even if there is about an hour differential between the timings of Knappertsbusch and Boulez, both points of view seem to work within the context of the drama and highlight different aspects of the score. Konwitschny’s interpretation is no less interesting as well as unique. In general, he favors slower tempi while maintaining the lyricism of the melodic line. His approach is softer in many ways giving the orchestra a feeling of transparency and lightness throughout. His efforts are buttressed by some phenomenal singing. Astrid Varnay delivers one of the finest performances of Brünnhilde I have ever heard her do. Although she had already been singing Wagner for nearly twenty years, and she would soon retire the hochdramatische roles from her repertoire, she approaches the daunting challenges unflinchingly and misses none of the marks. She is joined by Wolfgang Windgassen as Siegfried. In hearing his performance you really get the sense of what an excellent technician he was. Even if his voice was not truly of the heldentenor ilk, he never pushes it beyond its means maintaining the sweetness of his voice throughout the long evenings. Hans Hotter is captured at the height of both his vocal and interpretive powers. It is hard to envisage what a better Wotan would sound like. The rest of the cast includes Amy Shuard and Ramón Vinay as Siegmund and Sieglinde, respectively, Gottlob Frick as Hagen and Ursula Boese as Fricka. The sound is superb.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10832-13\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292631089288,"sku":"10832-13","price":107.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099187460,"sku":"MP3 10832-13","price":55.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10832-13front.jpg?v=1751036452"},{"product_id":"strauss-der-rosenkavalier-schwarzkopf-steffek-jurinac-bohme-solti","title":"Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - Schwarzkopf, Jurinac, Steffek, Böhme, Lewis; Solti.  London, 1959","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe merits of this recordings should be obvious to even the greenest of collectors out there. It finds the great Elisabeth Schwarzkopf at a point where her grasp of the Marschallin is so complete, and organic and just before the bloom was beginning to fade from her voice. She is joined by Sena Jurinac in the title role. Hearing these two singers together, you get the sense of how wonderful it is when you have artists that have such a clear rapport and comfort with one another. Kurt Böhme is a riotous Ochs. What is particularly important about this production is that it marks the Covent Garden debut of Sir Georg Solti who would go on to a legendary tenure as music director. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10835-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292630990984,"sku":"10835-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099037252,"sku":"MP3 10835-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10835-3front.jpg?v=1751036449"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-adam-boese-windgassen-neidlinger-silja-bohm","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Adam, Boese, Windgassen, Neidlinger, Silja, Talvela, Böhme; Böhm.  Bayreuth, 1965","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis performance of \u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e is carried to a great extent by the excellent Wotan of Theo Adam. The \u003cem\u003eRheingold\u003c\/em\u003e Wotan suited Adam's youthful baritone the best of all the Ring operas and he delivers a god whose rash ambition is tempered by a dignified bearing; striking an important balance between Wotan's admirable traits and his fatal flaws. He is joined by a fantastic cast down to the last Rhinemaiden. It is a testament to Wolfgang Windgassen's artistry that he didn't mind doing double duty as Loge and the not-so-insignificant role of Siegfried, as Loge, being less strenuous, gives Windgassen a chance to display his considerable skills as an actor. Anja Silja is a wonderful Freia, Martti Talvela delivers a Fasolt with the heart of a poet and Gustav Neidlinger shows why he was the reigning Alberich of the day. One of the highlights is Lili Chookasian's brief but impactful turn as Erda (a welcome variation from the Phillips release which featured Vera Soukupová in this role). The one disappointment is the Fricka of Ursula Boese whose voice comes across as a little monochromatic. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10906-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292628041864,"sku":"10906-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099156676,"sku":"MP3 10906-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10906-2front.jpg?v=1751036366"},{"product_id":"strauss-capriccio-dell-casa-prey-holm-hegar","title":"Strauss: Capriccio - Della Casa, Prey, Holm; Heger. Munich, 1960","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is hard to believe that Richard Strauss could write such a light, plotless paean to the glory of opera in 1941, when his homeland was in the grip of the Nazi Party and he himself was having to walk a dangerous tightrope, using his influence to further the safety of his Jewish in-laws and friends. Perhaps he wrote it to recapture the lost world of his youth, perhaps to make a final statement on art. Whichever the case, he would be very pleased by this sumptuous, elegant performance from Munich, lead with a light touch and a firm sweep by Robert Hegar. Lisa Della Casa is at the center of this salon entertainment, delivering a golden-voiced, slightly melancholy Gräfin Madeline. Her two suitors, the composer and the poet, are given equally alluring cases by the sweet-toned Richard Holm and the great Hermann Prey, caught in his very best form. Gisela Litz and Horst Günther turn in finely etched supporting performances as Madeline’s brother and the actress Clarion, and the great wagnerian Kurt Böhme shows off his lighter side as the pragmatic theater manager La Roche. There's even a sparkling cameo from the great coloratura Erika Köth in the tiny role of the Italian soprano. Captured in excellent sound, this performance is not to be missed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11068-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292623421576,"sku":"11068-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098811076,"sku":"MP3 11068-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11068-2front.jpg?v=1751036225"},{"product_id":"strauss-arabella-varady-fischer-dieskau-martha-modl-hertha-topper-sawallisch","title":"Strauss: Arabella - Varady, Mathis, Fischer-Dieskau; Sawallisch. München, 1977","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAnna Tomowa-Sintow\u003c\/b\u003e was supposed to have sung the title role in this 1977 performance from Munich, but fell sick. Luckily \u003cb\u003eJulia Varady\u003c\/b\u003e was in town and stepped in between performances of \u003cem\u003eEugene Onegin\u003c\/em\u003e to give a nigh-definitive performance of Strauss' flighty heroine. She has great chemistry with her Mandryka (and real life husband), \u003cb\u003eDietrich Fischer-Dieskau\u003c\/b\u003e who is a charmingly clumsy suitor. \u003cb\u003eEdith Mathis\u003c\/b\u003e is the tortured Zdenka and \u003cb\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/b\u003e is a thundering, seedy presence as Arabella's reprobate father. The Fiakermilli is rather ungainly, but as if to make up for it, \u003cb\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/b\u003e is on hand as the fortune teller.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11177-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292615884936,"sku":"11177-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098809284,"sku":"MP3 11177-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11177-2front.jpg?v=1751036095"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-jones-adam-behrens-king-fassbaender-sawallisch-munchen-1977","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Jones, Adam, Behrens, King, Fassbaender; Sawallisch. München, 1977","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou really can’t ask for a better line-up for \u003cem\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/b\u003e, in the title role, brings youthful athleticism to the \u003cem\u003e”Hojotohos”\u003c\/em\u003e (including the trills that many less nimble sopranos opt out of) and seems to pour out her very soul in the final moments of the opera, inspiring \u003cb\u003eTheo Adam\u003c\/b\u003e, as Wotan, to give one of the most impassioned farewells I have ever heard from him. \u003cb\u003eHildegard Behrens\u003c\/b\u003e was still relatively new to the international opera circuit in 1977, but nonetheless seems right at home with the others, bringing her very unique brand of understated yet focused acting as well as purity of tone to the role of Sieglinde. \u003cb\u003eJames King\u003c\/b\u003e is a virile Siegmund and \u003cb\u003eBrigitte Fassbaender\u003c\/b\u003e strikes a fine balance between imperial and menacing as Fricka. \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Sawallisch\u003c\/b\u003e keeps the orchestra light and maintains the forward momentum throughout the evening. The sound is quite good, although there is patch of minor digital clicks at the end of Act I and Act III; each instance lasting about two minutes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11228-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292614312072,"sku":"11228-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099203012,"sku":"MP3 11228-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11228-3front.jpg?v=1751036038"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-hotter-veasey-elizabeth-vaughan-edward-downes","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Hotter, Veasey, Vaughan, Dobson, Kraus, McIntyre; Downes. London, 1967","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis superb recording of \u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e attests to the supreme talents at the disposal of Covent Garden in the 1960s as the (mostly) homegrown singers manage to hold their own next to the indisputable star of the evening, \u003cb\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/b\u003e. Even though Hotter was undeniably past his prime, his voice is still in pretty good working order, and his innate understanding of the head god gives the character an organic realism that all to often gets lost amidst the horned helmets and magical trinkets. \u003cb\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/b\u003e is a sweet-voiced Fricka who is equally credible when she is seducing Wotan to get her way as when she is badgering him. \u003cb\u003eElizabeth Vaughan\u003c\/b\u003e brings a lush presence to Freia. There are also fine performances from \u003cb\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/b\u003e as Fasolt and Fafner, \u003cb\u003eDonald McIntyre\u003c\/b\u003e as Donner and \u003cb\u003eOtakar Kraus\u003c\/b\u003e as a surprisingly sympathetic Alberich.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE\u003c\/strong\u003e: The first two minutes of the prelude are missing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11273-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292609396872,"sku":"11273-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099159620,"sku":"MP3 11273-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11273-2front.jpg?v=1751035968"},{"product_id":"strauss-die-schweigsame-frau-ingeborg-hallstein-fritz-wunderlich-kurt-bohme-heinz-wallberg","title":"Strauss: Die schweigsame Frau - Böhme, Wunderlich, Hallstein, Souza; Wallberg. Buenos Aires, 1962","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrauss’s charming and seldom-performed opera \u003ci\u003eDie schweigsame Frau\u003c\/i\u003e receives luxurious treatment in this standout performance from Buenos Aires. \u003cb\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/b\u003e, in the role of Sir Morosus, avoids the trap of \u003ci\u003ecommedia dell’arte\u003c\/i\u003e caricature, offering a nuanced and genuinely comic portrayal of Strauss’s take on the \u003ci\u003eDon Pasquale\u003c\/i\u003e archetype. His performance balances gravity and humor, bringing warmth and depth to a role often played for broad laughs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFritz Wunderlich\u003c\/b\u003e is in radiant form as Henry, his nephew, imbuing the role with youthful charm and a golden tone. He makes the most of Strauss’s lyrical writing, effortlessly spinning out melodic lines with natural ease. \u003cb\u003eIngeborg Hallstein\u003c\/b\u003e brings a pleasant presence to Aminta, though she doesn’t quite match her male colleagues in vocal distinction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11374-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292605268104,"sku":"11374-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099044676,"sku":"MP3 11374-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11374-2front.jpg?v=1751035851"},{"product_id":"mozart-don-giovanni-ahlersmeyer-marianne-schech-kurt-bohme-gottlob-frick-hans-hopf","title":"Mozart: Don Giovanni (In German) - Ahlersmeyer, Schech, Böhme, Hopf, Frick, Teschenmacher; Elmendorff. Dresden, 1943","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wonderful thing about recordings of Mozart from the 1940s is that the casts often resemble what you would likely see at a Wagner or Strauss opera. I’m not suggesting, necessarily, that Mozart benefits from oversized voices—it is just noteworthy that singers so well versed in Wagner could scale back their instruments and convey the subtlety and elegance of Mozartian style, then soar over the ensembles with a level of intensity that, for example, the Act I finale of \u003ci\u003eDon Giovanni\u003c\/i\u003e requires.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe vocal standout for me in this recording is the Donna Anna of \u003cb\u003eMarianne Schech\u003c\/b\u003e. The strength of Schech’s voice lies in her gleaming top, which makes for some very exciting singing, particularly in \u003ci\u003e“Or sai chi l’onore.”\u003c\/i\u003e She is well matched by \u003cb\u003eHans Hopf\u003c\/b\u003e as Don Ottavio. In his later years, “subtle” was not an adjective often ascribed to Hopf, but heard here while still in his twenties, he reveals a lyricism and bloom that I had never associated with this singer. \u003cb\u003eMathieu Ahlersmeyer\u003c\/b\u003e’s Don Giovanni is surprisingly good, bringing all the appropriate suave elegance to the role. \u003cb\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/b\u003e is a spirited Leporello, and a young \u003cb\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/b\u003e shows a totally different side to his artistry than he would later when he dominated the role of Hagen in \u003ci\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe only disappointment is the rather unappealing Zerlina of \u003cb\u003eElfried Weidlich\u003c\/b\u003e. \u003cb\u003eKarl Elmendorff\u003c\/b\u003e’s interpretation is unapologetically romantic yet never too ponderous (read: slow). On a historical note, it is remarkable that this performance was able to take place in Dresden even during the last months of the war. The sound is good for the era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11444-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292602515592,"sku":"11444-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098730436,"sku":"MP3 11444-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11444-3front.jpeg?v=1751035774"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-ring-theo-adam-wolfgang-windgassen-anja-silja-martti-talvela-karl-bohm","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Adam, Windgassen, Burmeister, Talvela, Silja, Böhme, Dernesch, Hesse; Böhme; Böhm. Bayreuth, 1966","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cem\u003ePros:\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ci\u003eTruly magnificent cast down to the last Rhein Maiden\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ci\u003eTheo Adam is an imposing Wotan.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ci\u003eWolfgang Windgassen seems to relish the mercurial nature of Loge's music delivering a puckish yet strong impression.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ci\u003eMartti Talvela offers a heartfelt Fasolt and Anja Silja may be one of the finest Freias in the history of the Ring.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cem\u003eCons:\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eNone to mention\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11481-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292601106568,"sku":"11481-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":18901409988,"sku":"MP3 11481-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":18901410180,"sku":"FLAC 11481-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11481-2front.jpeg?v=1751035727"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-nilsson-windgassen-theo-adam-james-king-rysanek-modl-silja-dernesch-greindl-thomas-stewart-talvela-karl-bohm","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Nilsson, Windgassen, Adam, Rysanek, King, Greindl, Mödl, Silja, Talvela; Böhm. Bayreuth, 1966","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese recordings were made during the summer prior to the release of the official Philips studio cycle, offering a fascinating glimpse into a \u003ci\u003eRing\u003c\/i\u003e that features many of the same artists at a similarly electrifying level of performance. The cast is nothing short of definitive, with towering portrayals from \u003cb\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eTheo Adam\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eLeonie Rysanek\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eJames King\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eJosef Greindl\u003c\/b\u003e, and \u003cb\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/b\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat makes this set particularly remarkable is the consistent level of excellence across the entire cast. Even the smaller roles receive star-caliber treatment, with standout cameos from \u003cb\u003eLudmila Dvoraková\u003c\/b\u003e as Gutrune, \u003cb\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/b\u003e as Waltraute, \u003cb\u003eAnja Silja\u003c\/b\u003e as both Freia and the Third Norn, and \u003cb\u003eLiane Synek\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eDanica Mastilovic\u003c\/b\u003e, and \u003cb\u003eHelga Dernesch\u003c\/b\u003e among the Valkyries. The result is a richly detailed and vocally thrilling traversal of Wagner’s monumental cycle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/i\u003e in Stereo\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eDie Walküre, Siegfried and Götterdämmerung\u003c\/i\u003e in Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11485-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292601008264,"sku":"11485-12","price":99.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":18901414212,"sku":"MP3 11485-12","price":51.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":18901414276,"sku":"FLAC 11485-12","price":63.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11485-12front.jpeg?v=1751035723"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-wolfgang-windgassen-birgit-nilsson-theo-adam-kurt-bohme-erika-koth-karl-bohm","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Windgassen, Nilsson, Adam, Wohlfahrt, Böhme, Köth; Böhm. Bayreuth, 1966","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e brings his sterling tenor and unshakable stamina to the title role of \u003ci\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/i\u003e, tackling the opera’s immense vocal demands with seemingly effortless command. \u003cb\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/b\u003e makes a brief but unforgettable appearance at the opera’s close, her soaring soprano providing a majestic and fitting conclusion to an already thrilling evening of Wagner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThough not a household name, \u003cb\u003eErwin Wohlfahrt\u003c\/b\u003e delivers a Mime that rivals the achievements of his more famous colleagues. His interpretation is vivid, vocally assured, and dramatically nuanced—an essential part of what makes this performance-or any performance of Siegfried-so compelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11483-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292600975496,"sku":"11483-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":18901561860,"sku":"MP3 11483-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":18901561924,"sku":"FLAC 11483-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11483-3front.jpeg?v=1751035723"},{"product_id":"richard-strauss-der-rosenkavalier-claire-watson-hertha-topper-erika-koth-kurt-bohme-brigitte-fassbaender-gerhard-stolze-joseph-keilberth","title":"Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - Watson, Töpper, Köth, Böhme, Wiener, Wunderlich, Stolze, Fassbaender; Keilberth. München, 1965","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis recording of \u003ci\u003eDer Rosenkavalier\u003c\/i\u003e boasts an extraordinary trio of female leads: \u003cb\u003eClaire Watson\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eHertha Töpper\u003c\/b\u003e, and \u003cb\u003eErika Köth\u003c\/b\u003e, each bringing distinctive vocal and dramatic strength to their roles. The supporting cast is no less impressive, with an abundance of talent in the smaller parts. \u003cb\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eBrigitte Fassbaender\u003c\/b\u003e make for a sharply etched Valzacchi and Annina, while \u003cb\u003eOtto Wiener\u003c\/b\u003e is an authoritative Faninal. \u003cb\u003eFritz Wunderlich\u003c\/b\u003e lends golden-toned brilliance to the brief role of the Italian Singer, and \u003cb\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/b\u003e delivers a richly comic yet grounded portrayal of Baron Ochs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eJoseph Keilberth\u003c\/b\u003e conducts with a clear affinity for Strauss’s sentimental yet modern idiom, balancing charm and elegance with forward momentum. His reading captures both the opera’s emotional core and its bustling wit, making this performance as musically satisfying as it is dramatically engaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11495-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292600713352,"sku":"11495-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":20164823492,"sku":"MP3 11495-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":20164823556,"sku":"FLAC 11495-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11495-3front.jpeg?v=1751035714"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-theo-adam-wolfgang-windgassen-burmeister-silja-neidlinger-otmar-suitner","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Adam, Burmeister, Windgassen, Silja, Ridderbusch, Neidlinger; Suitner. Bayreuth, 1967","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOtmar Suitner\u003c\/b\u003e, stepping in for Karl Böhm, shapes a taut and intricately layered \u003ci\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/i\u003e, bringing clarity and cohesion to the sprawling prologue of the \u003ci\u003eRing\u003c\/i\u003e Cycle. His pacing favors detail over drive, giving the singers space to explore their characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTheo Adam\u003c\/b\u003e delivers a Wotan of considerable vocal heft, leaning into the declamatory nature of the role with a storytelling approach that emphasizes the character’s political cunning. \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e makes a vivid impression as Loge, playing him not as a mere bystander but as an active agent in the gods’ unraveling. \u003cb\u003eAnja Silja\u003c\/b\u003e lends uncommon presence to Freia, while \u003cb\u003eGustav Neidlinger\u003c\/b\u003e turns in a definitive Alberich—brutal, calculating, and strangely pitiable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11619-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292595142792,"sku":"11619-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":36432217224,"sku":"MP3 11619-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":36432217352,"sku":"FLAC 11619-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11619-2front.jpg?v=1751035576"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegried-wolfgang-windgassen-birgit-nilsson-theo-adam-otmar-suitner-1967","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Windgassen, Nilsson, Adam, Wohlfahrt, Böhme, Köth; Suitner. Bayreuth, 1967","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOtmar Suitner\u003c\/b\u003e once again takes the podium in place of Karl Böhm, and his reading of \u003ci\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/i\u003e proves every bit as compelling as his more widely known counterpart. The pacing is fluid, the orchestral textures clear, and the drama finely judged throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e is an indefatigable Siegfried, tossing off the punishing tessitura with heroic assurance. Yet he also brings unexpected tenderness to the reflective moments, making this one of his more complete portrayals of the role. \u003cb\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/b\u003e brings her trademark vocal blaze to Brünnhilde’s awakening in Act III, making a major impact despite her brief appearance. \u003cb\u003eErwin Wohlfahrt\u003c\/b\u003e delivers a standout Mime—both sly and vocally refined—rising well above caricature and investing the character with depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is some very mild and occasional static in Act III, but it remains an impressive capture of a thrilling performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11621-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292595077256,"sku":"11621-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":36432221960,"sku":"MP3 11621-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":36432222024,"sku":"FLAC 11621-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11621-3front.jpg?v=1751035574"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-nilsson-windgassen-adam-greindl-stewart-modl-silja-ridderbusch-dernesch-otmar-suitner-karl-bohm","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Nilsson, Windgassen, Adam, Rysanek, King, Greindl, Mödl, Silja; Böhm\/Suitner. Bayreuth, 1967","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis live broadcast from Bayreuth captures a constellation of legendary voices in what is perhaps the most vocally luxurious \u003ci\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/i\u003e ever assembled. At the center is \u003cb\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/b\u003e, whose Brünnhilde showcases the heroic stamina and gleaming top notes that made her the defining voice in this role. Her vocal power remains undiminished, but it's her emotional range—especially in \u003ci\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/i\u003e—that impresses most. \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e appears in double duty as Siegfried and Loge, bringing his signature blend of vocal agility and lyrical charm. Even after two decades at Bayreuth, he still manages to imbue Siegfried with youthful energy and charisma.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTheo Adam\u003c\/b\u003e offers a commanding Wotan, characterized more by intellectual gravity than sheer vocal warmth. \u003cb\u003eLeonie Rysanek\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eJames King\u003c\/b\u003e as Sieglinde and Siegmund are ideally matched, their duet in Act I of \u003ci\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/i\u003e a perfect union of emotional urgency and expansive phrasing. \u003cb\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/b\u003e, by then transitioning into mezzo repertoire, delivers a riveting Waltraute, her famed commitment to text and psychological nuance on full display in the narrative scene—perhaps her most haunting recorded version of it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe smaller roles are cast from strength: \u003cb\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/b\u003e is an imposing Gunther; \u003cb\u003eAnja Silja\u003c\/b\u003e shines in both the Third Norn and Freia; \u003cb\u003eErika Köth\u003c\/b\u003e brings crystalline clarity to the Waldvogel; and \u003cb\u003eKarl Ridderbusch\u003c\/b\u003e lends Fasolt a bass of rare nobility. Conducting duties are shared between \u003cb\u003eKarl Böhm\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eOtmar Suitner\u003c\/b\u003e, each bringing distinct strengths—Böhm’s taut, urgent pacing and Suitner’s more lyrical finesse. Although the stereo sound is generally good, it lacks some of the polish of the commercial release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eA WORD ABOUT THIS CYCLE:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese recordings mark the only time that Bayreuth used two different conductors for the same \u003ci\u003eRing\u003c\/i\u003e. Initially the Cycle was scheduled to be recorded in 1966, but Birgit Nilsson, already tasked with recording the now legendary \u003ci\u003eTristan und Isolde\u003c\/i\u003e with Karl Böhm, became concerned about the grueling schedule. So the management came up with the compromise that they would record \u003ci\u003eRheingold\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/i\u003e in 1966, both of which don't demand as much of Nilsson (particularly \u003ci\u003eRheingold\u003c\/i\u003e), and \u003ci\u003eWalküre\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/i\u003e in 1967. This, unfortunately, meant displacing the esteemed conductor Otmar Suitner from some of the performances in 1967. Incidentally, Wolfgang Windgassen, who was also singing in the 1966 \u003ci\u003eTristan\u003c\/i\u003e, didn't have any issues with the schedule.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese performances were the live broadcasts from the summer of 1967, whereas the commercial recording was a composite of the runs from 1966 and 1967. Recording engineers generally favor musical accuracy, which meant that a singer could be in phenomenal voice and then one botched entrance would doom that take to the cutting room floor. Despite the musical mistakes, there is an energy at times missing from the commercial recordings in this unique set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11623-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292594880648,"sku":"11623-12","price":99.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":36432222664,"sku":"MP3 11623-12","price":51.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":36432222728,"sku":"FLAC 11623-12","price":63.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11623-12front.jpg?v=1751035572"},{"product_id":"strauss-der-rosenkavalier-lemnitz-baumer-richter-bohme-kempe","title":"Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - Bäumer, Lemnitz, Richter, Böhme; Kempe. Dresden, 1950","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe true star of this performance is the \u003cb\u003eStaatskapelle Dresden\u003c\/b\u003e, whose playing combines unabashed sentimentality with refined taste. Given that the work premiered just 39 years earlier, it’s tempting to imagine that some of the musicians may have had direct ties to its origins. \u003cb\u003eTiana Lemnitz\u003c\/b\u003e, well into her 50s at the time, brings a smoky richness to the title role that is both vocally secure and deeply expressive. \u003cb\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/b\u003e, better known for his later character roles, impresses here in his prime with a sonorous and musically deft portrayal of Baron Ochs—an all-too-rare luxury in this part.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11634-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292594487432,"sku":"11634-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":37976032328,"sku":"MP3 11634-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":37976032392,"sku":"FLAC 11634-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11634-3front.jpg?v=1751035561"},{"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-gladys-kuchta-pribyl-kurt-bohme-fliether-georg-solti","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Kuchta, Pribyl, Böhme, Fliether, Robson, Dobson, Robinson; Solti. London, 1968","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAnja Silja\u003c\/b\u003e was originally slated to sing this performance but had to withdraw, paving the way for \u003cb\u003eGladys Kuchta\u003c\/b\u003e, who steps in with assurance. Though she occasionally struggles with the most stratospheric moments, Kuchta offers a warm tone and Wagnerian weight that remains free of harshness, giving her Leonore an appealing strength. \u003cb\u003eVilem Pribyl\u003c\/b\u003e brings welcome youthful lyricism to Florestan, while \u003cb\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/b\u003e lends fatherly warmth to Rocco. \u003cb\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/b\u003e draws an ideal balance of fiery romanticism and classical elegance from the orchestra. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBONUS:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGladys Kuchta sings arias from \u003ci\u003eFidelio, Der fliegende Holländer\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eTristan und Isolde.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11674-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292593111176,"sku":"11674-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":45871962312,"sku":"MP3 11674-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":45871962376,"sku":"FLAC 11674-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11674-2front.jpg?v=1751035510"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-sandor-konya-astrid-varnay-josef-greindl-thomas-stewart-pierre-boulez","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Kónya, Varnay, Greindl, Stewart, Neidlinger, Böhme; Boulez. Bayreuth, 1966","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThough vastly different as artists, \u003cb\u003eSándor Kónya\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/b\u003e form a compelling and complementary pairing in this performance of \u003ci\u003eParsifal\u003c\/i\u003e. Kónya’s sweet-toned tenor captures the wide-eyed innocence of Parsifal in Act I, but it is his transformation in Act II that truly astonishes. Despite the lyric nature of his voice, he summons the intensity and fervor of a full-fledged heldentenor. Varnay’s Kundry is both sensual and worn by experience, her voice perhaps past its bloom, but her command of text and dramatic intent remains formidable. \u003cb\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/b\u003e is a noble, tormented Amfortas, and \u003cb\u003eJosef Greindl\u003c\/b\u003e brings gentle, paternal authority to Gurnemanz. \u003cb\u003ePierre Boulez\u003c\/b\u003e favors relatively swift tempos, though his approach here is more relaxed than in his later DG Bayreuth recording, allowing for moments of real expansiveness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11718-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292591898760,"sku":"11718-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":7298881290286,"sku":"MP3 11718-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":7298881355822,"sku":"FLAC 11718-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11718-4front.jpg?v=1751035473"},{"product_id":"strauss-der-rosenkavalier-elisabeth-grummer-teresa-zylis-gara-hammes-kurt-bohme","title":"Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier (Excerpts) - Grümmer, Zylis-Gara, Hammes; Böhme; Schüchter. Dortmund, 1966","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis performance of \u003ci\u003eDer Rosenkavalier\u003c\/i\u003e marked the reopening of the Dortmund opera house, which had been destroyed in World War I, and the occasion is honored with a cast of considerable distinction. \u003cb\u003eTeresa Zylis-Gara\u003c\/b\u003e offers a compelling case for casting a soprano as Octavian—her distinctive vocal color brings both youth and richness to the role. \u003cb\u003eElisabeth Grümmer\u003c\/b\u003e lends the Marschallin a sense of poise and restraint that feels almost Mozartian in its elegance. While the sound quality leaves something to be desired, the performance remains a captivating listen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNote:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExcerpts include the second half of Act II and Act III (the material from just before the Marschallin's entrance up until Ochs' exit is missing.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11735-1\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292591112328,"sku":"11735-1","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":8020966146094,"sku":"MP3 11735-1","price":5.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":8020966178862,"sku":"FLAC 11735-1","price":6.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11735-1front.jpg?v=1751035451"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-windgassen-modl-weber-london-uhde-streich-topper-stolze-knappertsbusch","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Windgassen, Mödl, Weber, London, Uhde, Böhme, Stolze, Streich, Töpper; Knappertsbusch. Bayreuth, 1952","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is remarkable that this was just the second summer of the Bayreuth Festival after WWII, yet they had already achieved a level of artistic excellence rarely paralleled in the time since, anywhere in the world. \u003cstrong\u003eHans Knappertsbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e is the true star of this performance, as is the Bayreuth orchestra, who bring a level of lyricism and emotion to this score that I have never heard before. The string sections, in particular, sound as though they are populated by world-class soloists, both in tone and commitment to the melodic line. Listen to how they play through the long notes—this is highlighted in the sample I specifically chose. The intention never flags, allowing \u003cstrong\u003eKnappertsbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e to revel in the magic of this score in a way that would be impossible with a lesser band. If you ever had reservations about \u003cstrong\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/strong\u003e's vocal ability, this performance will put them all to rest. She sings with her signature dramatic commitment and remarkable vocal control. Not only are the dramatic moments full-throated, but she also manages some exquisite pianissimi. \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e's pristine tenor is perfectly cast in the title role. I could continue to sing the praises of \u003cstrong\u003eLudwig Weber\u003c\/strong\u003e's majestic Gurnemanz and \u003cstrong\u003eGeorge London\u003c\/strong\u003e's anguished Amfortas, but I will leave it at this—this *Parsifal* is near definitive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11817-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":33456059056264,"sku":"11817-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":33456059089032,"sku":"MP3 11817-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":33456059121800,"sku":"FLAC 11817-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11817-4front.jpg?v=1751035378"},{"product_id":"wagner-tristan-und-isolde-gertrude-grob-prandl-lustig-milinkovic-bohme-blankenheim-andre-cluytens","title":"Wagner: Tristan und Isolde - Grob-Prandl, Lustig, von Milinkovic, Blankenheim, Böhme, Patzak; Cluytens. Wien, 1956","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGertrude Grob-Prandl\u003c\/b\u003e's Isolde may lack a certain degree of nuance, but she compensates with staggering vocal power and reserves of energy that seem inexhaustible. Her laser-focused top notes alone make this performance worth hearing—one can only imagine the impact they had in the house. \u003cb\u003eRudolf Lustig\u003c\/b\u003e offers moments of solid singing as Tristan, though he occasionally resorts to a kind of Sprechstimme to navigate the more demanding passages, revealing signs of vocal strain. The true revelation of the evening is \u003cb\u003eAndré Cluytens\u003c\/b\u003e, who leads the orchestra, soloists, and chorus in a performance that is both cohesive and inspired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 12002-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":47180208308545,"sku":"12002-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":47180208341313,"sku":"MP3 12002-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":47180208374081,"sku":"FLAC 12002-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/12002-3front.jpg?v=1751035162"},{"product_id":"strauss-der-rosenkavalier-maria-reining-hilde-guden-sena-jurinac-hans-knappertsbusch","title":"Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - Reining, Jurinac, Güden, Böhme; Knappertsbusch. Wien, 1955","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs Octavian, \u003cstrong\u003eSena Jurinac\u003c\/strong\u003e brings boundless energy and emotional nuance, capturing the essence of a young man standing at the edge of adulthood. \u003cstrong\u003eHilde Güden\u003c\/strong\u003e's opulent yet agile soprano makes her an ideal Sophie. While \u003cstrong\u003eMaria Reining\u003c\/strong\u003e occasionally struggles with the top of her range, she still conveys the Marschallin’s wistful stoicism with heartfelt grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 12094-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":49432024908097,"sku":"12094-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":49432024940865,"sku":"MP3 12094-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":49432024973633,"sku":"FLAC 12094-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12094-3front.jpg?v=1751035039"},{"product_id":"strauss-der-rosenkavalier-maria-reining-elisabeth-grummer-erna-berger-erich-kleiber","title":"Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - Reining, Grümmer, Berger, Böhme; E. Kleiber. München, 1952","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDer Rosenkavalier\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Strauss (1864–1949)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThis historic 1952 performance of \u003ci\u003eDer Rosenkavalier\u003c\/i\u003e captures the grandeur and elegance of Strauss' bittersweet comedy. Featuring a distinguished cast of legendary German and Austrian singers, it offers a time capsule into post-war European opera culture, anchored by the masterful baton of Erich Kleiber.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaria Reining\u003c\/strong\u003e lends her warmth and nobility to the Marschallin, while \u003cstrong\u003eElisabeth Grümmer\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eErna Berger\u003c\/strong\u003e contribute their shimmering soprano voices to a cast filled with vocal grace and dramatic clarity. This recording is a must-have for admirers of Golden Age singing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Die Feldmarschallin – \u003cstrong\u003eMARIA REINING\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Der Baron Ochs von Lerchenau – \u003cstrong\u003eKURT BÖHME\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Octavian – \u003cstrong\u003eELISABETH GRÜMMER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Herr von Faninal – \u003cstrong\u003eKARL KAMANN\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Sophie – \u003cstrong\u003eERNA BERGER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Jungfer Marianne Leitmetzerin – \u003cstrong\u003eLISL KADERA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Valzacchi – \u003cstrong\u003eWILLIAM WERNIGK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Annina – \u003cstrong\u003eINA GERHEIN\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Polizeikommissar – \u003cstrong\u003eHEINZ IMDAHL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Haushofmeister bei der Feldmarschallin – \u003cstrong\u003eGEORG WIETER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Haushofmeister bei Faninal – \u003cstrong\u003eWALTER CARNUTH\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ein Notar – \u003cstrong\u003eWALTER CARNUTH\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ein Wirt – \u003cstrong\u003eRUDOLF WÜNZER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ein Sänger – \u003cstrong\u003eLORENZ FEHENBERGER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Drei adelige Waisen – \u003cstrong\u003eHILDEGARD LIMMER, HANNA SCHOLL, INGRID STEGER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Eine Modistin – \u003cstrong\u003eGERTRUD EBELING\u003c\/strong\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003ePrinzregententheater, München\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly 20, 1952\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eErich Kleiber\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12221-3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      \u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50362020823361,"sku":"12221-3","price":16.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":50362020856129,"sku":"MP3 12221-3","price":8.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50362020888897,"sku":"FLAC 12221-3","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12221-3front.jpg?v=1751034876"},{"product_id":"weber-euryanthe-sutherland-schech-vroons-kraus-bohme-steidry","title":"Weber: Euryanthe - Sutherland, Schech, Vroons, Kraus, Böhme; Steidry. London, 1955","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\u003eEuryanthe – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Sutherland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAdolar – \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Vroons\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEglantine – \u003cstrong\u003eMarianne Schech\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGraf Lysiart – \u003cstrong\u003eOtakar Kraus\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKing Ludwig V – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Böhme\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\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eSeptember 30, 1955\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eFritz Stiedry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30047-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":50543193293121,"sku":"30047-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Sutherland-Joan_4e9f200b-3bb7-4662-a157-05258d91c8fe.png?v=1751034834"},{"product_id":"weber-der-freischutz-grummer-streich-hopf-bohme-edelmann-furtwangler","title":"Weber: Der Freischütz - Grümmer, Streich, Hopf, Böhme, Edelmann; Furtwängler. Salzburg, 1954","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      Ottokar – \u003cstrong\u003eAlfred Poell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Kuno – \u003cstrong\u003eOskar Czerwenka\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Agathe – \u003cstrong\u003eElisabeth Grümmer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ännchen – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Streich\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Kaspar – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Max – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hopf\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Samiel – \u003cstrong\u003eClaus Clausen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ein Eremit – \u003cstrong\u003eOtto Edelmann\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Kilian – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Dönch\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\u003eSalzburg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly 26, 1954\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eWilhelm Furtwängler\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30148-2\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":50543199355201,"sku":"30148-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Grummer-Elisabeth_d117d5d4-a97b-4ccc-898a-9ed3e23f4928.png?v=1751034764"},{"product_id":"verdi-don-carlo-varady-luchetti-denize-r-raimondi-brendel-bohme-falcon-franci","title":"Verdi: Don Carlo - Varady, Luchetti, Denize, R. Raimondi, Brendel, Böhme, Falcon; Franci. München, 1976","description":"\u003ch1 style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"title-header\"\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\u003eDon Carlos – \u003cstrong\u003eVeriano Luchetti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eElisabeth – \u003cstrong\u003eJulia Varady\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePrinzessin Eboli – \u003cstrong\u003eNadine Denize\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePhilipp II – \u003cstrong\u003eRuggero Raimondi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRodrigo, Marquis Posa – \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Brendel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDer Großinquisitor – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Böhme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEin Mönch – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Christian Kohn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTebaldo – \u003cstrong\u003eMargarete Seibel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGraf Lerma – \u003cstrong\u003eFriedrich Lenz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEin Herold – \u003cstrong\u003eJames Pearce\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEine Engelsstimme – \u003cstrong\u003eRuth Falcon\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\u003eNationaltheater München\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eOctober 7, 1976\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eCarlo Franci\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEnsemble: \u003cstrong\u003eChor und Orchester der Bayerischen Staatsoper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30156-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":50543199617345,"sku":"30156-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Verdi-Giuseppe_4fc98739-839c-4526-b9fd-1b621eb8ccd2.png?v=1751034758"},{"product_id":"orff-antigonae-modl-uhl-alexander-bohme-sawallisch","title":"Orff: Antigonae - Mödl, Uhl, Alexander, Böhme; Sawallisch. München, 1958","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\u003eAntigonae – \u003cstrong\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIsmene – \u003cstrong\u003eMarianne Radev\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nChorführer – \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Dooley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKreon – \u003cstrong\u003eCarlos Alexander\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nEin Wächter – \u003cstrong\u003ePaul Kuen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nHämon – \u003cstrong\u003eFritz Uhl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTiresias – \u003cstrong\u003eJosef Traxel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nEin Bote – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nEurydice – \u003cstrong\u003eLilian Benningsen\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\u003eChorus: \u003cstrong\u003eChor des Bayerischen Rundfunks\u003c\/strong\u003e (Direction: Kurt Prestel)\u003cbr\u003e\nOrchestra: \u003cstrong\u003eSymphonie-Orchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Sawallisch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30262-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":50668391661889,"sku":"30262-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Modl-Martha_4d6326fa-0867-459e-95a0-e7e1b7371da4.png?v=1753757407"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-edelmann-della-casa-hopf-pfanzl-bohme-malaniuk-cluytens","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Edelmann, Della Casa, Hopf, Pfanzl, Böhme, Malaniuk; Knappertsbusch. Bayreuth, 1952","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eFrom a standpoint of vocal beauty, it is difficult to imagine a more compelling performance of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/span\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eOtto Edelmann\u003c\/strong\u003e, as Hans Sachs, delivers sumptuous lyricism without even a hint of strain, and yet one never feels he is playing it safe vocally. \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hopf\u003c\/strong\u003e, aged 35 at the time of this performance, delivers Walther’s music with a honey-toned sweetness not previously associated with his artistry. \u003cstrong\u003eLisa Della Casa\u003c\/strong\u003e may be the ideal Eva, bringing youthful exuberance as well as steely grit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eAt the helm, \u003cstrong\u003eHans Knappertsbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e contours the score with the text like no other conductor I have come across.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Hans Sachs – \u003cstrong\u003eOtto Edelmann\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Walther von Stolzing – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hopf\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Eva – \u003cstrong\u003eLisa Della Casa\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Sixtus Beckmesser – \u003cstrong\u003eHeinrich Pfanzl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Veit Pogner – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      David – \u003cstrong\u003eGerhard Unger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Magdalena – \u003cstrong\u003eIra Malaniuk\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Fritz Kothner – \u003cstrong\u003eWerner Faulhaber\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Kunz Vogelgesang – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Terkal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Konrad Nachtigall – \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Stoll\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Balthasar Zorn – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Mikorey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ulrich Eisslinger – \u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Janko\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      August Moser – \u003cstrong\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Hermann Ortel – \u003cstrong\u003eTheo Adam\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Hans Schwarz – \u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Borst\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Hans Foltz – \u003cstrong\u003eMax Kohl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Nachtwächter – \u003cstrong\u003eGustav Neidlinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eBayreuth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003e1952\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eHans Knappertsbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12286-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      \u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eNOTE\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Previous versions of this performance were under-pitch; we have corrected this as well as improved the sound.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50836061749569,"sku":"12286-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":50836061782337,"sku":"MP3 12286-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50836061815105,"sku":"FLAC 12286-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12286-4front.jpg?v=1758503194"},{"product_id":"mozart-die-entfuhrung-aus-dem-serail-rothenberger-wunderlich-holm-bohme-wallberg","title":"Mozart: Die Entführung aus dem Serail - Rothenberger, Wunderlich, Holm, Böhme; Wallberg. Buenos Aires, 1961","description":"\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      Belmonte – \u003cstrong\u003eFritz Wunderlich\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Konstanze – \u003cstrong\u003eAnneliese Rothenberger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Blonde – \u003cstrong\u003eRenate Holm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Pedrillo – \u003cstrong\u003eEugenio Valori\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Osmin – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Selim – \u003cstrong\u003eVictor Parlaghy\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      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eSeptember 8, 1961\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eBuenos Aires\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Wallberg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Orchestra: \u003cstrong\u003eOrchestra e Coro del Teatro Colón\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30433-2\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":50912114704705,"sku":"30433-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Mozart-Wolfgang-Amadeus_db3173ce-bc22-4b5d-b473-33be1eb5ad9b.png?v=1760723630"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-aldenhoff-varnay-hotter-kuen-neidlinger-bohme-streich-keilberth","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Aldenhoff, Varnay, Hotter, Kuen, Neidlinger, Böhme, Streich; Keilberth. Bayreuth, 1952","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eOne of the more poignant losses of the 1950s was the untimely death of Heldentenor \u003cstrong\u003eBernd Aldenhoff\u003c\/strong\u003e from food poisoning. Heard here in this performance of \u003ci\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/i\u003e, one can make a strong case for his place among the finest exponents of the role. He meets the considerable vocal demands with power and security, yet it is the finesse in the more introspective passages that truly distinguishes his interpretation, most notably in a Waldweben scene of exceptional beauty and sensitivity. \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e brings both gravitas and a strikingly youthful vocal color to the Wanderer, while \u003cstrong\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/strong\u003e makes her brief appearance at the end count, unleashing waves of radiant sound with impressive confidence. As Mime, \u003cstrong\u003ePaul Kuen\u003c\/strong\u003e deserves recognition, particularly in his compelling Act II exchange with the formidable \u003cstrong\u003eGustav Neidlinger\u003c\/strong\u003e as Alberich. \u003cstrong\u003eRita Streich\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a notable cameo as the Waldvogel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Siegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eBernd Aldenhoff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Mime – \u003cstrong\u003ePaul Kuen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Wanderer – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Brünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Alberich – \u003cstrong\u003eGustav Neidlinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Erda – \u003cstrong\u003eMelanie Bugarinovic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Fafner – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Waldvogel – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Streich\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eBayreuth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003e1952\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Keilberth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12318-3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      \u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":51174023725377,"sku":"12318-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":51174023758145,"sku":"MP3 12318-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":51174023790913,"sku":"FLAC 12318-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12318-3front.jpg?v=1767147876"},{"product_id":"strauss-der-rosenkavalier-bjoner-topper-koth-bohme-fassbaender-kempe","title":"Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - Bjoner, Töpper, Köth, Böhme, Wunderlich, Fassbaender; Kempe. München, 1966","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDer Rosenkavalier\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Strauss (1864–1949)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThis \u003ci\u003eDer Rosenkavalier\u003c\/i\u003e features \u003cb\u003eIngrid Bjoner\u003c\/b\u003e as the Marschallin, a role that proves especially well suited to her gifts. Bjoner’s voice, notable both for its considerable power and its innate purity, responds well to the Marschallin’s conversational vocal writing, allowing her to reveal a wide range of vocal color and interpretive nuance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eAs Octavian, \u003cb\u003eHertha Töpper\u003c\/b\u003e conveys the character’s youthful impetuousness with striking immediacy, the voice rising above the orchestra with apparent ease while also suggesting the vulnerability at the heart of the role. \u003cb\u003eErika Köth\u003c\/b\u003e brings a fresh and engaging presence to Sophie, shaping the character with youthful charm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Octavian – \u003cstrong\u003eHERTHA TÖPPER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Marschallin – \u003cstrong\u003eINGRID BJONER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Baron Ochs – \u003cstrong\u003eKURT BÖHME\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Sophie – \u003cstrong\u003eERIKA KÖTH\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Faninal – \u003cstrong\u003eBENNO KUSCHE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Leitmetzerin – \u003cstrong\u003eANNELIE WAAS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Sänger – \u003cstrong\u003eFRITZ WUNDERLICH\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Annina – \u003cstrong\u003eBRIGITTE FASSBAENDER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Valzacchi – \u003cstrong\u003eFERRY GRUBER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Wirt – \u003cstrong\u003eFRIEDRICH LENZ\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Notar – \u003cstrong\u003eJOSEF KNAPP\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Polizeikommissar – \u003cstrong\u003eMINO YAHIA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Haushofmeister bei Marschallin – \u003cstrong\u003eFRANZ KLARWEIN\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Haushofmeister bei Faninal – \u003cstrong\u003eKARL OSTERTAG\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Modistin – \u003cstrong\u003eLUISA CARNER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Tierhändler – \u003cstrong\u003eKARL OSTERTAG\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Drei Adelige Waisen – \u003cstrong\u003eMONIKA KIENZL\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eMARGARET NESSEL\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eROSEMARIE FRENI\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n    \u003chr\u003e\n\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 20, 1966\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eRudolf Kempe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12346-3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      \u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":51481784549697,"sku":"12346-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":51481784582465,"sku":"MP3 12346-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":51481784615233,"sku":"FLAC 12346-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12346-3front_a1991c88-88d6-455d-b41a-064942ef067a.jpg?v=1773510108"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/collections\/Bohme-Kurt.png?v=1752372185","url":"https:\/\/operadepot.com\/collections\/kurt-bohme.oembed?page=2","provider":"Opera Depot","version":"1.0","type":"link"}