{"title":"BEETHOVEN, Ludwig van","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"leonore-jones-king-adam-beethoven","title":"Beethoven: Leonore - Jones, King, Adam, Nienstedt, Hausmann, Hollweg, Wächter; Melles.  ORF, 1970","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is no secret that Beethoven agonized for years over \u003cem\u003eFidelio\u003c\/em\u003e. This performance of his earlier version, Leonore, is a fascinating glimpse into Beethoven's compositional process. Unlike other early versions of operas (i.e. Macbeth, Butterfly etc) \u003cem\u003eLeonore\u003c\/em\u003e almost sounds like an entirely different piece. Not only did he remove numbers altogether, but many of the arias and ensembles that survived have differences large and small. \u003cem\u003e\"Abscheulicher\"\u003c\/em\u003e begins with an entirely new recit before the aria. \u003cem\u003e\"O namenlose Freude\"\u003c\/em\u003e begins with a recit and once the duet proper begins, Leonore and Florestan sing the opening lines together as opposed to antiphonally. There is also a beautiful duet between Leonore and Marzelline that has an obbligato violin solo. The differences go on and on and in some cases you can see the wisdom in Beethovens' changes and in other instances you find yourself wishing he had had more confidence in his original composition. The cast of this performance does much to advocate for the earlier version. Gwyneth Jones sings the title role with both classical grace and romantic ardor. James King may have been glad that the earlier version of \u003cem\u003e\"Gott! Welch dunkel hier\"\u003c\/em\u003e was not as strenuous as its final iteration, but still sings like a god. Theo Adam is an excellent Pizarro.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe sound is pretty good although there is some brief skipping that I couldn't remove during the Act I duet between Pizarro and Rocco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10936-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666740872,"sku":"10936-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098708356,"sku":"MP3 10936-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10936-2front.jpg?v=1751037327"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-jones-king-bernstein","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Jones, King, Crass, Adam, Popp, Dallapozza, Nienstedt; Bernstein.  Wien, 1970","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn her earlier years, \u003cb\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/b\u003e emerged as perhaps the ideal Leonore, capturing both the dramatic depth and classical poise required for Beethoven's only opera. Her voice—already brimming with dramatic potential—remained agile and credible within the classical repertoire, making her portrayal both powerful and authentic. Opposite her, \u003cb\u003eJames King\u003c\/b\u003e delivers a masterclass in vocal ease, his thrilling stentorian tone and effortless production lending a heroic weight to his performance. The supporting cast shines as well: \u003cb\u003eLucia Popp\u003c\/b\u003e brings a delightful energy to Marzelline, her bubbly charm perfectly offsetting the opera's weightier themes, while \u003cb\u003eFranz Crass\u003c\/b\u003e lends a warm and avuncular presence as Rocco, grounding the story with his rich bass. Under \u003cb\u003eLeonard Bernstein\u003c\/b\u003e's direction, Beethoven's monumental score soars. Bernstein highlights the work's vast emotional scope and architectural brilliance, bringing to life the triumph of love, justice, and freedom that lies at the heart of \u003ci\u003eFidelio\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10175-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292660613256,"sku":"10175-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098596228,"sku":"MP3 10175-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":49813958689089,"sku":null,"price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12144-2front.jpg?v=1751037175"},{"product_id":"beethoven-dow-berdini-christoff-taddei-calabrese-gui","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio (In Italian) - Dow, Berdini, Christoff, Taddei, Gasperone, Calabrese; Gui. Roma, 1955","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"471\"\u003eListening to this recording, I was surprised by how natural \u003cem data-start=\"60\" data-end=\"69\"\u003eFidelio\u003c\/em\u003e sounds in Italian. That’s not to say there’s anything distinctly Italian about the interpretation—on the contrary, the performers succeed in delivering a stylized reading that remains true to the opera. Still, there are moments that might inspire a knowing grin. For instance, \u003cem data-start=\"347\" data-end=\"365\"\u003e\"Abscheulicher!\"\u003c\/em\u003e is translated as \u003cem data-start=\"383\" data-end=\"399\"\u003e\"Ah, Perfido!\"\u003c\/em\u003e—one wonders if the translator had \u003cem data-start=\"434\" data-end=\"445\"\u003eBeethoven\u003c\/em\u003e’s concert aria in mind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"473\" data-end=\"1079\" data-is-last-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"473\" data-end=\"488\"\u003eDorothy Dow\u003c\/strong\u003e sings beautifully and proves well suited to an Italian-language Leonora. Her voice possesses the purity and control that \u003cem data-start=\"610\" data-end=\"621\"\u003eBeethoven\u003c\/em\u003e demands while also carrying a lush quality that suits the language. \u003cstrong data-start=\"690\" data-end=\"708\"\u003eAmedeo Berdini\u003c\/strong\u003e adds an appealing Italianate flair to Florestan, while \u003cstrong data-start=\"764\" data-end=\"783\"\u003eGiuseppe Taddei\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a chillingly effective Pizarro. \u003cstrong data-start=\"825\" data-end=\"844\"\u003eBoris Christoff\u003c\/strong\u003e, best known for his commanding portrayals of kings and czars, surprises with a notably human Rocco. \u003cstrong data-start=\"945\" data-end=\"961\"\u003eVittorio Gui\u003c\/strong\u003e also deserves recognition, particularly for his masterfully shaped prelude to Act II.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10501-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292645343368,"sku":"10501-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098595268,"sku":"MP3 10501-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10501-2front.jpg?v=1751036883"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-galina-vishnevskaya","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio (In Russian) - Vishnevskaya, Nelepp, Ivanov, Shchegolkov; Melik-Pashayev.  Bolshoi, 1957","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eDespite being in Russian, this is an excellent performance. I was initially drawn to it for the Leonore of \u003cstrong data-start=\"107\" data-end=\"130\"\u003eGalina Vishnevskaya\u003c\/strong\u003e, and she does not disappoint, combining Mozartian smoothness with the ability to switch into overdrive when needed. The rest of the cast proves equally impressive, with a compelling Florestan and a noteworthy Marzelline. Adding to its brilliance, the performance is superbly conducted by \u003cstrong\u003eAlexander \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"419\" data-end=\"437\"\u003eMelik-Pashayev\u003c\/strong\u003e, whose reading of the overture nearly bursts with exuberance. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBONUS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGalina Vishnevskaya sings arias from \u003cem\u003eMacbeth\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEdinburgh, 1976\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10516-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292644884616,"sku":"10516-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098596036,"sku":"MP3 10516-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50128116646209,"sku":"FLAC 10516-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10516-2front.jpg?v=1751036866"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-borkh-beirer-greindl-neidlinger","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Borkh, Beirer, Greindl, Neidlinger, Tappy; Ansermet.  Geneva, 1964","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHans Beirer\u003c\/strong\u003e sings \"\u003cem\u003eGott! Welch dunkel hier!\"\u003c\/em\u003e with unflinching confidence, while \u003cstrong\u003eJosef Greindl\u003c\/strong\u003e brings unexpected warmth to Rocco, softening the imposing quality of his dark bass. The one real disappointment is \u003cstrong\u003eElisabeth Schwarzenberg\u003c\/strong\u003e as Marzelline—her voice is uneven and does not match the level of her colleagues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBONUS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSir Thomas Beecham conducts the Leonore 3 overture\u003cbr\u003eBuenos Aires, 1958\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10557-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292643344520,"sku":"10557-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098595716,"sku":"MP3 10557-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10557-2front.jpg?v=1751036819"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-martha-modl-zampieri","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Mödl, G. Zampieri, Ernster, Ego; Horenstein.  Athens, 1957","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom her opening spoken lines, \u003cstrong\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/strong\u003e captivates as Leonora. She conveys both the desperation of her plight and the cunning she employs to manipulate Rocco in pursuit of her goal. Unfortunately, her voice in 1957 was not at its best, most notably during her aria, which at times, to be blunt, is challenging to listen to. However, in less vocally demanding passages, she demonstrates why, from an interpretive standpoint, she remains one of the great Leonores of all time. That said, if you are looking for exquisite classical singing, this is probably not the recording for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Zampieri\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a secure performance, though his voice has a noticeable bleat that can be distracting. The rest of the cast is competent, serving the production adequately. Conductor \u003cstrong\u003eJascha Horenstein\u003c\/strong\u003e brings energy to the orchestral performance, delivering a spirited reading that includes a rousing \u003cem\u003eLeonore No. 3\u003c\/em\u003e. The sound quality is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10692-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292637479048,"sku":"10692-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098596420,"sku":"MP3 10692-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10692-2front.jpg?v=1751036639"},{"product_id":"beethoven-leonore-lindholm-alexander-shirley-quirk-robinson-harwood-dorati","title":"Beethoven: Leonore - Lindholm, Alexander, Robinson, Shirley-Quirk, Harwood; Dorati.  London, 1969","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHearing \u003cem\u003eLeonore\u003c\/em\u003e, Beethoven's early version of what would become \u003cem\u003eFidelio,\u003c\/em\u003e really gives the listener a sense of how Beethoven struggled with his only opera. Unlike earlier versions of \u003cem\u003eLa Traviata\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eMadama Butterfly\u003c\/em\u003e in which there are differences but also long stretches with music identical to their final versions, \u003cem\u003eLeonore\u003c\/em\u003e shows that Beethoven agonized over even some of the smallest details (e.g. high notes approached stepwise in the early version, and then by a leap of a fifth in the final version.) In some instances Beethoven may have thrown out the baby with the bathwater as he cuts some music that is truly memorable (whether or not it works dramatically is another question that can only be answered with a live viewing.) In the end, in my opinion, \u003cem\u003eLeonore\u003c\/em\u003e is a very good work and not the lesser of two siblings and this performance does much to assert that. Berit Lindholm lends her gleaming soprano to the title role. Although at times her voice may seem pushed to its max, this is in part due to the fact that Beethoven asks even greater technical feats in his earlier version. John Alexander sings with tireless beauty and delivers a Florestan that could rival almost anyone. Elizabeth Harwood is an interesting choice as Marzelline as her soprano has enough body to it that at times it is hard to distinguish her voice from Lindholm's. John Shirley-Quirk is an avuncular Rocco and Forbes Robinson lends his black bass to the role of Pizzaro, an interesting novelty in a role that is dominated by baritones. Antal Dorati leads the London Symphony Orchestra with stirring fervor. The sound is good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11030-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292624961672,"sku":"11030-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098596932,"sku":"MP3 11030-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11030-2front.jpg?v=1751036270"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-dernesch-dowd-mcqueen-mcintyre-gibson-glasgow-1970","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Dernesch, Dowd, McQueen, McIntyre; Gibson.  Glasgow, 1970","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery once and a while a singer whose artistry you thought you understood surprises you. I had such a moment while listening to this performance of \u003cem\u003eFidelio\u003c\/em\u003e with Helga Dernesch. Although I have always admired the unique color of Dernesch's voice, I have also found her a little wooden on stage. However, in this performance she totally inhabits Leonore with a conviction that I didn't know she possessed. As compelling as she is in the arias and ensembles, she is even more intense in her dialogue, overshadowing all of her colleagues. Despite Ronald Dowd's naturally heroic voice, his Florestan comes across a bit flaccid. Donald McIntyre makes for a formidable Don Pizarro. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11040-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292624699528,"sku":"11040-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098595972,"sku":"MP3 11040-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11040-2front.jpg?v=1751036261"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-bjoner-vickers-crass-neidlinger-holm-leitner-buenos-aires-1970","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Bjoner, Vickers, Crass, Neidlinger, Holm; Leitner.  Buenos Aires, 1970","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIngrid Bjoner in many ways was the perfect Leonore. Her voice had just the right balance of Wagnerian steel and Mozartian purity so that the climaxes have all the impact without sounding pushed. The result is a Leonore who sounds equal parts Brünnhilde and Donna Anna and will surely please both those who prefer a dramatic voice like Nilsson or Flagstad in this role, and those who see Beethoven's only opera more through a classical lens. Jon Vicker's Florestan is pretty far from classical in sensibility, but certainly not lacking in drama and although he may paint in broader strokes than Bjoner, he still manages the dizzying demands of his opening aria with vocal security and finesse. Franz Crass brings nobility to the role of Rocco, which is refreshing given how often this character can come across as bumbling. Ferdinand Leitner's approach is broad without becoming too heavy or ponderous and treats the audience to a stirring rendition of Leonore No. 3 between the scenes in Act II. The performance is in great stereo sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11041-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292624666760,"sku":"11041-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098595588,"sku":"MP3 11041-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11041-2front.jpg?v=1751036260"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-anny-konetzni-erich-kleiber","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio (CONTAINS DISTORTION) - A. Konetzni, Pataky, Berglund, Gutmann; E. Kleiber. Buenos Aires, 1937","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the interests of full disclosure, I will lead with the fact that this performance is from 1937, when recording from the radio was still in its infancy. Although there are stretches of perfectly listenable music, the biggest flaw is that there is a good deal of distortion at the upper ranges of volume. This particularly effects Anny Konetzni’s colossal soprano voice. So why would I release it, you ask? Well, normally it wouldn’t have made it, but a complete performance of \u003cem\u003eFidelio\u003c\/em\u003e conducted by Erich Kleiber, replete with the Leonore #3 overture is such an important document that I didn’t have the heart to withhold it due to some (pretty substantial) flaws in the sound. So I invite you all to view this as you would an ancient Roman Fresco. If you listen carefully you will hear an incredibly spirited performance from Kleiber as well as some astonishing singing from Konetzni. Konetzni, despite having an enormous instrument, sounds as if she would be just as at home singing the Countess in \u003cem\u003eLe Nozze di Figaro.\u003c\/em\u003e Additional kudos go to Koloman von Pataky for his lyrical Florestan. But don’t say I didn’t warn you about the sound…\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11061-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292623716488,"sku":"11061-2","price":10.77,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098595332,"sku":"MP3 11061-2","price":5.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11061-2front.jpg?v=1751036236"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-rysanek-king-berry-macurdy-pilou-bohm","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Rysanek, King, Berry, Macurdy, Pilou; Böhm. Milano, 1974","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeonie Rysanek quickly asserted herself as one of the greatest Leonores of her day from the onset of her career, and the role remained a staple of her repertoire throughout. She brought an intensity to the part which highlighted the desperation and determination of Leonore’s mission. Few sopranos could make the kind of vocal impact Rysanek could in this role especially while acquitting Beethoven’s rather unforgiving vocal writing. As Florestan, James King matches Rysanek’s intensity and his robust tenor never buckles under the demands of the role. John Macurdy as Rocco is less vocally distinguished, but he brings a charming everyman quality to the role. Walter Berry delivers a menacing Pizarro. Jeannette Pilou is luxury casting as Marzelline. Despite being an octogenarian, Karl Böhm leads one of the most energetic performances I have ever heard, including a rousing reading of Leonore 3. I had expected the performance to be on the slow side after having heard Böhm’s late recordings of Mozart and was surprised when I found the entire performance to be on the brisk side. The recording is in excellent stereo. I will point out that there are about a dozen or so dropouts, all less than a second, throughout the recording.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11118-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292620865672,"sku":"11118-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098596484,"sku":"MP3 11118-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11118-2front.jpg?v=1751036164"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-hildegard-behrens-hubert-hofmann-ferdinand-leitner","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Behrens, Ilosfalvy, Hofmann; Leitner. 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Best of all is Renate Lehmann's pert, sympathetic Marzelline, who launches the great act one quartet with a beautifully-spun legato.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11148-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292619489416,"sku":"11148-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098596164,"sku":"MP3 11148-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11148-2front.jpg?v=1751036123"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-lotte-lehmann-arturo-toscanini","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio (Overture through \"Abscheulicher\") - Lehmann, Jerger, Helletsgruber; Toscanini. Salzburg, 1936","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eArturo Toscanini\u003c\/b\u003e leads this performance with the great \u003cb\u003eLotte Lehmann\u003c\/b\u003e in the title role. Although an argument can be made that other sopranos have given more vocally distinguished performances as Leonore, few have embodied her fearless resolve as well as Lehmann does in this performance. Arturo Toscanini leads a brisk and biting performance easily living up to the mythology of his name. 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What does come through unmistakably is the sense of catharsis shared by performers and audience alike in the wake of World War II.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/strong\u003e is captured at her peak, singing with her characteristic abandon while maintaining striking control over her distinctive instrument. \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a youthful brightness to Florestan, shaping the character with both elegance and emotional weight. \u003cstrong\u003eElisabeth Schwarzkopf\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eRudolf Schock\u003c\/strong\u003e offer refined contributions as Marzelline and Jacquino, respectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe performance’s true anchor is \u003cstrong\u003eHerbert von Karajan\u003c\/strong\u003e, whose conducting reveals insight at every turn. 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Not all choices may resonate with listeners familiar with the standard performance practice, but the interpretation offers a compelling alternative view.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBONUS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGré Brouwenstijn sings \"Abscheulicher!\" from \u003ci\u003eFidelio\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBuenos Aires, 1958\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11869-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":37809653874862,"sku":"11869-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":37809653907630,"sku":"MP3 11869-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":37809653940398,"sku":"FLAC 11869-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/11869-2front.jpg?v=1751035308"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-ingrid-bjoner-james-king-ingvar-wixell-franz-crass-edith-mathis-karl-bohm","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Bjoner, King, Crass, Wixell, Mathis, Krause; Böhm. 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The excellent stereo sound preserves every nuance of Böhm’s detailed interpretation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 12078-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":49196360925505,"sku":"12078-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":49196360958273,"sku":"MP3 12078-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":49196360991041,"sku":"FLAC 12078-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12078-2front.jpg?v=1751035060"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-margaret-harshaw-richard-cassilly-william-steinberg","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio (In English) - Harshaw, Cassilly, Cass, Hecht; Steinberg. 1959","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you know people in your life who are skeptical of opera in English, I would direct them towards this performance of \u003cem\u003eFidelio\u003c\/em\u003e. The English language is delivered with clarity and sincerity. In fact, I was able to transcribe the track information without having the English translation to refer to (a testament also to the excellent quality of the recording.) \u003cb\u003eMargaret Harshaw\u003c\/b\u003e's silvery soprano is an ideal fit for Leonora. A young \u003cb\u003eRichard Cassilly\u003c\/b\u003e brings sublime lyricism to the role of Florestan, without any signs of strain. \u003cb\u003eWilliam Steinberg\u003c\/b\u003e elicits a meticulously detailed interpretation from the orchestra. None to mention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 12123-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":49643286724929,"sku":"12123-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":49643286757697,"sku":"MP3 12123-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":49643286790465,"sku":"FLAC 12123-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12123-2front.jpg?v=1751034992"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-ludwig-uhl-berry-frick-stolze-steffek-prey-herbert-von-karajan","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Ludwig, Uhl, Berry, Frick, Stolze, Steffek, Prey; Karajan. München, 1963","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eFidelio\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLudwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThis legendary performance assembles a cast of larger-than-life opera stars whose collective brilliance shapes a \u003ci\u003eFidelio\u003c\/i\u003e that is both emotionally raw and finely wrought. In the title role, \u003cstrong\u003eChrista Ludwig\u003c\/strong\u003e is utterly convincing, unleashing soaring high notes that would be the envy of many sopranos, while inviting the listener to revel in her velvety middle register. Her emotional intensity is unflinching, making her anguish in the prison scene palpably real. \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a warmly human presence to Rocco, and \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e infuses Pizarro with a sleek, menacing charm. \u003cstrong\u003eFritz Uhl\u003c\/strong\u003e may not match the magnetic force of his colleagues, but he offers a Florestan marked by admirable vocal assurance. At the podium, \u003cstrong\u003eHerbert von Karajan\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a masterclass in dramatic pacing, drawing both clarity and urgency from Beethoven's score.\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      Leonore – \u003cstrong\u003eCHRISTA LUDWIG\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Florestan – \u003cstrong\u003eFRITZ UHL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eWALTER BERRY\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Marzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eHANNY STEFFEK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Rocco – \u003cstrong\u003eGOTTLOB FRICK\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Jacquino – \u003cstrong\u003eGERHARD STOLZE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eHERMANN PREY\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Zwei Gefängene – \u003cstrong\u003eHEINRICH WEBER\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eHANS-BRUNO ERNST\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\u003eMünchen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eDecember 1, 1963\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eHerbert von Karajan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12217-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\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":50345120727361,"sku":"12217-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":50345120760129,"sku":"MP3 12217-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50345120792897,"sku":"FLAC 12217-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12217-2front.jpg?v=1751034879"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-silja-cassilly-van-allen-ward-davis","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Silja, Cassilly, Van Allen, Ward; Davis. 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Dallas, 1971","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeonore – \u003cstrong\u003eHelga Dernesch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMarzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eGraziella Sciutti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFlorestan – \u003cstrong\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDon Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eRaimund Herincx\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRocco – \u003cstrong\u003eArnold Van Mill\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\u003eDallas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eNovember 10, 1971\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eSir Charles Mackerras\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30150-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":50543199420737,"sku":"30150-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van_57e02f32-e155-4a64-956e-1da98d34c4d5.png?v=1751034763"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-lindholm-hoiseth-s-bjorling-jupither-westenberg","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Lindholm, Hoiseth, S. Björling, Jupither; Westenberg. Stockholm, 1965","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      Leonore – \u003cstrong\u003eBerit Lindholm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Florestan – \u003cstrong\u003eKolbjørn Høiseth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eSigurd Björling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Marzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eLaila Andersson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      John Erik Jacobsson – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Erik Jacobsson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eRolf Jupither\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Rocco – \u003cstrong\u003eArne Tyren\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\u003eStockholm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003e1965\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eStig Westerberg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30151-2\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":50543199453505,"sku":"30151-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van_5affccd7-6247-45b1-9b58-54d54aa6cae7.png?v=1751034762"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-braun-patzak-greindl-frantz-jochum","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Braun, Patzak, Greindl, Frantz; Jochum. München, 1951","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeonore – \u003cstrong\u003eHelena Braun\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFlorestan – \u003cstrong\u003eJulius Patzak\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nRocco – \u003cstrong\u003eJosef Greindl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDon Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eFerdinand Frantz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDon Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Schmitt-Walter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMarzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eElfriede Trötschel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJaquino – \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Holm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nErster Gefangener – \u003cstrong\u003eAlfons Fügel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Maria Lins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eMünchen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eApril 1951\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eEugen Jochum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30250-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":50668390973761,"sku":"30250-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van_bd015840-ac61-4346-98a6-7b813b49b29a.png?v=1753757313"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-goltz-zampieri-schoffler-edelmann-jurinac-kmentt-berry-karajan","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Goltz, Zampieri, Schöffler, Edelmann, Jurinac, Kmentt, Berry; Karajan. Wien, 1957","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      Leonore (Fidelio) – \u003cstrong\u003eChristel Goltz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Florestan – \u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Zampieri\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Rocco – \u003cstrong\u003eOtto Edelmann\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003ePaul Schöffler\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eNicola Zaccaria\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Marzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eSena Jurinac\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Jaquino – \u003cstrong\u003eWaldemar Kmentt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Erste Gefangener – \u003cstrong\u003eErich Majkut\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Zweite Gefangener – \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Berry\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\u003eJuly 27, 1957\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eSalzburg Festival\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eHerbert von Karajan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30419-2\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":50912114245953,"sku":"30419-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van_bee68195-c418-4f4c-a77d-ea7385a45264.png?v=1760723609"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-jurinac-vickers-frick-hotter-robinson-morrison-klemperer","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Jurinac, Vickers, Frick, Hotter, Robinson, Morrison; Klemperer. London, 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      Leonore – \u003cstrong\u003eSena Jurinac\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Florestan – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Rocco – \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Marzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eElsie Morrison\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Jaquino – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Dobson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Gefängene – \u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Ward \/ Victor Godfry\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\u003eMarch 7, 1961\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eOtto Klemperer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30420-2\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":50912114278721,"sku":"30420-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van_51bd930d-a155-4087-b58f-3ee45a3fad00.png?v=1760723612"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-jurinac-king-crass-stewart-schoffler-mehta","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Jurinac, King, Crass, Stewart, Schöffler; Mehta. Firenze, 1969","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      Leonore – \u003cstrong\u003eSena Jurinac\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Florestan – \u003cstrong\u003eJames King\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Rocco – \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Crass\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003ePaul Schöffler\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Marzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eLee Verona\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Jacquino – \u003cstrong\u003eGerhard Unger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Gefänge – \u003cstrong\u003eGiorgio Giorgetti \/ Guerrando Rigiro\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\u003eJune 8, 1969\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eFlorence\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eZubin Mehta\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e30421-2\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":50912114311489,"sku":"30421-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van_f7221288-597f-443f-b227-2d08de5bb9a9.png?v=1760723616"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-ross-cassilly-rintzler-langdon-hendricks-estes-maazel","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Ross, Cassilly, Rintzler, Langdon, Hendricks, Estes; Maazel. 1976","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eFidelio\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLudwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElinor Ross\u003c\/strong\u003e assumes the title role in this concert performance of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eFidelio\u003c\/span\u003e, bringing a voice that combines size and warmth to often thrilling effect. At times, I found myself giving in to my bias for a more classical approach to the role, and indeed some of the higher notes must be negotiated downward, but she more than makes up for this in the dramatic passages, particularly in the Act II confrontation with Don Pizarro.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Cassilly\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a voice of unusual purity and power to Florestan, while \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e adds welcome vocal warmth as Rocco. The real stand-out, however, is \u003cstrong\u003eBarbara Hendricks\u003c\/strong\u003e as Marzelline. Still in her twenties, Hendricks’ artistry already possessed the compelling radiance that would soon make her a star. \u003cstrong\u003eSimon Estes\u003c\/strong\u003e makes an impressive cameo as Don Fernando.\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      Leonore – \u003cstrong\u003eElinor Ross\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Florestan – \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Cassilly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Pizarro – \u003cstrong\u003eMarius Rintzler\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Rocco – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Jacquino – \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Brown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Marzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eBarbara Hendricks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eSimon Estes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      1. Gefängener – \u003cstrong\u003eJames Vincent Pickens\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      2. Gefängener – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Berger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Narrator – \u003cstrong\u003eSteven Klein\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\u003eCleveland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eAugust 25, 1976\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eLorin Maazel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12327-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      \u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":51258954547521,"sku":"12327-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":51258954580289,"sku":"MP3 12327-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":51258954613057,"sku":"FLAC 12327-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12327-2front.jpg?v=1768255622"},{"product_id":"beethoven-fidelio-ludwig-king-berry-crass-mathis-bohm","title":"Beethoven: Fidelio - Ludwig, King, Berry, Crass, Mathis; Böhm. Salzburg, 1968","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eFidelio\u003c\/h1\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLudwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eIt is difficult to imagine a more distinguished line-up for a performance of \u003ci\u003eFidelio\u003c\/i\u003e. In the 1960s, \u003cb\u003eChrista Ludwig\u003c\/b\u003e had begun to explore soprano roles, and Leonora occasionally presses against the limits of her otherwise secure technique. Yet she approaches the role with notable commitment, embracing its demands with a sense of dramatic urgency that compensates for any vocal tension.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eJames King\u003c\/b\u003e’s Florestan emerges as a figure of striking intensity, his portrayal suffused with a visceral sense of suffering that rarely relents. At the same time, the inherent beauty of his baritonal tenor remains intact, lending the characterization both weight and lyricism. \u003cb\u003eWalter Berry\u003c\/b\u003e, as Pizarro, offers a more refined interpretation than one might expect; if anything, the performance risks an excess of elegance. Still, this approach finds its justification in the character’s political bearing, suggesting a cultivated exterior that masks underlying brutality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFranz Crass\u003c\/b\u003e lends Rocco a grounded sense of dignity, shaping the role with an unforced nobility that underscores its humane qualities. In the pit, \u003cb\u003eHerbert von Karajan\u003c\/b\u003e maintains a firm, forward momentum, bringing a persistent drive to the score while preserving its classical proportions and structural clarity.\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      Leonore – \u003cstrong\u003eCHRISTA LUDWIG\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Florestan – \u003cstrong\u003eJAMES KING\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Rocco – \u003cstrong\u003eFRANZ CRASS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Marzelline – \u003cstrong\u003eEDITH MATHIS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Jaquino – \u003cstrong\u003eDONALD GROBE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Don Fernando – \u003cstrong\u003eHANS HOTTER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      First Prisoner – \u003cstrong\u003eKURT MALM\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Second Prisoner – \u003cstrong\u003eKLAUS HIRTEL\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\u003eSalzburg Festival\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003e1968\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Böhm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 12357-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\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":51580859875649,"sku":"12357-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":51580859908417,"sku":"MP3 12357-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":51580859941185,"sku":"FLAC 12357-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/12357-2front.jpg?v=1775529912"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/collections\/Beethoven-Ludwig-van.png?v=1744562739","url":"https:\/\/operadepot.com\/collections\/ludwig-van-beethoven.oembed?page=3","provider":"Opera Depot","version":"1.0","type":"link"}