{"title":"Recordings from Bayreuth","description":null,"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":"wagner-tristan-und-isolde-varnay-vinay-malaniuk-weber-neidlinger-jochum-bayreuth-1953","title":"Wagner: Tristan und Isolde - Varnay, Vinay, Malaniuk, Weber, Neidlinger; Jochum.  Bayreuth, 1953","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis may be one of my all-time favorite performances of \u003cem\u003eTristan\u003c\/em\u003e. Although the broadcast from the previous year with Martha Mödl was certainly a memorable affair, Astrid Varnay possessed the ability to truly deliver the Wagnerian goods, (i.e. formidably power and gleaming high notes) in a way that Mödl couldn't, despite being a gripping actress. From her entrance, Varnay's voice soars over the orchestra with ease. She culminates the evening with a superbly delicate Liebestod. Ramon Vinay's baritonal Tristan brings an anguished quality unlike any other interpreter of this role I can think of. He is particularly thrilling in Act III, seemingly unfazed by the daunting vocal writing. Ludwig Weber is an excellent Marke. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10938-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666871944,"sku":"10938-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099263812,"sku":"MP3 10938-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10938-3front.jpg?v=1751037332"},{"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-gotterdammerung-nilsson-windgassen-greindl-stewart-meyer-neidlinger-bohm-bayreuth-1965","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Nilsson, Windgassen, Greindl, Stewart, Meyer, Neidlinger; Böhm.  Bayreuth, 1965","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday it is hard to imagine a time in which you could go see a performance of the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e which not only featured legendary singers in the main roles but also assembled a supporting cast which did not contain one weak link. Birgit Nilsson is an unstoppable force of nature as Brünnhilde whose vocal power is only matched by the beauty of her voice (a rare pairing in Wagner.) Although Wolfgang Windgassen, by his own admission, was never a true heldentenor, his solid technique and intelligence carry him a long way, and if at times we miss the ringing tones of someone like Lauritz Melchior, he more than makes up for it with the youthful quality he brings to the role. Josef Greindl's black bass delivers a formidable, yet almost reptilian, Hagen. Thomas Stewart's Gunther is a true luxury. So often this part is overlooked by great baritones, perhaps given the unsympathetic nature of the character, but in the hands of a great singer one sees that there are many opportunities to shine and Stewart does just that. Likewise for the Gutrune of Ludmila Dvorakova, a fine Brünnhilde herself, whose attractive slavic sound makes the character come across as a legitimate threat to Brünnhilde and Siegfried's union irrespective of any love potions. In an interesting variation from the Phillips set, we are treated to Kerstin Meyer's Waltraute in place of Martha Mödl. Although you will never hear me say a bad thing about Mödl's artistry, it is no secret that by 1967 the voice was pretty much in tatters. And although Meyer doesn't achieve the magnetic quality that Mödl brought to every character she did, her vocal achievements are very much welcome. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10909-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666773640,"sku":"10909-4","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099220612,"sku":"MP3 10909-4","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10909-4front.jpg?v=1751037329"},{"product_id":"ring-nibelungen-excerpts-schroder-feinen-stein-bayreuth","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen (EXCERPTS) - Lindholm, Schröder-Feinen, Ligendza, Cox, Adam; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not uncommon for two sopranos to split duties as Brünnhilde in the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e, but I have never come across a complete cycle inhabited by three different Brünnhildes. It had originally been intended for Berit Lindholm to sing the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhildes and Catarina Ligendza to sing the \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde, but Lindholm fell ill before the performance of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e giving Ursula Schröder-Feinen, who was still relatively unknown at the time, the opportunity to show off her Wagnerian chops. And some mighty fine chops they are, I might add. For my part Schröder-Feinen nearly steals the entire Cycle, tackling the shortest, but arguably most difficult, role in the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e with seeming ease. Her top is gleaming with seemingly endless reserves and she is able to scale back her voice for the more intimate moments. That is not to short-change the achievements of her colleagues. Lindholm struggles a little at first with the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde but quickly settles into things revealing an alluring, auburn color to her voice, which brought to my mind a young Astrid Varnay. Catarina Ligendza returns for her third summer as Brünnhilde at Bayreuth and seems more confidant and secure than ever. It is unclear to me how well her voice may have cut through the orchestra, but she manages the treacherous role with impressive security and a youthful quality that is all too rare in Wagner. The rest of the cast is very good. Theo Adam sings Wotan, Gwyneth Jones is Sieglinde, Jean Cox delivers a dashing Siegfried (replete with an impressive high C in \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e). The smaller roles are no less distinguished, including the likes of Eva Randovà as Gutrune, Franz Mazura as Gunther and Marga Höffgen as Erda. The sound is very good and the performances are complete except for about 30 seconds of music at the beginning of \"Ewig war ich\" in Act III of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10934-1\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666380424,"sku":"10934-1","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098794052,"sku":"MP3 10934-1","price":5.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10934-1front.jpg?v=1751037325"},{"product_id":"gotterdammerung-wagner-ligendza-cox-ridderbusch-stein","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Ligendza, Cox, Ridderbusch, Mazura, Neidlinger, Randová; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou would not expect Catarina Ligendza to be as successful in the role of Brünnhilde as she was. Her jugendlische sound seems a somewhat incongruous fit, especially in \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e. Surprisingly, she manages to rise to the challenges with confidence. She is well matched with the Siegfried of Jean Cox (the two must have been one of the most attractive pair in the history of Bayreuth.) Karl Ridderbusch brings sinister charm to the role of Hagen. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10932-4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmuseed-player data-playlist=\"10932-4\" width=\"640\" height=\"compact-height\"\u003e \u003c\/museed-player\u003e \u003cscript type=\"module\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/player.museed.co\/player.js\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\" async\u003e \u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666347656,"sku":"10932-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098695428,"sku":"MP3 10932-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10932-4front.jpg?v=1751037324"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-cox-schroder-feinen-adam-stein","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Cox, Schröder-Feinen, Adam, Zednik, Neidlinger, Feldhoff, Höffgen; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJean Cox has often been dismissed as a \"serviceable\" Siegfried (no small accolade considering the formidable demands of the role.) However, I attest that this performance is anything but serviceable and he hits all of the marks, from a virile forging scene to some very tender singing during the \u003cem\u003eWaldweben\u003c\/em\u003e. The stand-out of the cast comes in the form of a last minute substitution which Wolfgang Wagner announces before the beginning of Act III when Berit Lindholm fell ill. Ursula Scröder-Feinen seems unfazed by the stress of having to go on at the last minute and scores a triumph in the short but strenuous \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde. Her voice is both dramatic and sensual. \u003cem\u003e\"Ewig war ich\"\u003c\/em\u003e is particularly remarkable for its delicacy, especially given the fact that she just sang music that is anything but. Heinz Zednik is wiry and hilarious Mime. The sound is very good but there is about 30 seconds of music missing at the beginning of \u003cem\u003e\"Ewig war ich.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10931-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666314888,"sku":"10931-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099244356,"sku":"MP3 10931-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10931-3front.jpg?v=1751037323"},{"product_id":"wagner-walkure-lindholm-adam-jones-stein","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Lindholm, Adam, Jones, Brenneis, Reynolds, Ridderbusch; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is interesting to hear Berit Lindholm as Brünnhilde seven years after her initial outing in the role. In that time her voice had darkened and become more rich which works mostly to her benefit as the \u003cem\u003eWalküre\u003c\/em\u003e Brünnhilde sits lower than any of others. The downside is that this added richness and weight seem to make getting to the upper extension a little more labored. Theo Adam returns as Wotan, a role he all but owned at Bayreuth for nearly a decade, and brings his signature virile poise to the part. Gwyneth Jones was about ready to make the switch to Brünnhilde and, sadly, the toll of the hochdramatische repertoire would begin to take a toll. However in 1973 she was still in command of her over-sized soprano and delivers some thrilling singing. Gerd Brenneis as Siegmund is on the more lyrical side of the spectrum which make for a very beautiful \u003cem\u003e\"Winterstürme.\"\u003c\/em\u003e The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10930-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666282120,"sku":"10930-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099264260,"sku":"MP3 10930-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10930-3front.jpg?v=1751037322"},{"product_id":"wagner-rheingold-adam-esser-reynolds-bode-ridderbusch-stein","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Adam, Reynolds, Esser, Bode, Ridderbusch, Zednik; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1973","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1973 marked the third year that this particular \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e was in circulation at Bayreuth. Although revivals often get a bad rap, at Bayreuth, where the casts are often consistent from year to year, the director will continue to work with the singers, restaging parts of the opera and exploring new dynamics between the characters. The result is a dynamic experience in which the singers and audience benefit from the rapport that the artists have established year after year without slipping into stale routine. Not that this cast of excellent singing actors would ever let that happen. Theo Adam is magnificent as Wotan and carries most of the show with ease. Karl Ridderbusch is also a stand-out as Fasolt as is Marga Höffgen as an earthy-voiced Erda. The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10929-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666249352,"sku":"10929-2","price":16.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099239684,"sku":"MP3 10929-2","price":8.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10929-2front.jpg?v=1751037321"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-hofmann-randova-sotin-weikl-mazura-ridderbusch-stein-bayreuth","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Hofmann, Randova, Sotin, Weikl, Mazura, Ridderbusch; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those of you who have come to remember Peter Hofmann as a tenor whose voice never quite lived up to his physical appearance, you should give this early performance of \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e a try. Hofmann's voice has the same kind of burly lyricism as a young Jess Thomas. Sadly, like Thomas, that youthful sheen began to wear off as he started making recordings, leaving a legacy that is not entirely fair to his actual talents. Eva Randová is one of the wilder Kundrys I have heard and although it is exciting singing, I found myself wishing that she would occasionally paint with smaller strokes. Hans Sotin's mellifluous bass gives his Gurnemanz a youthful quality and the same can be said for Bernd Weikl's Amfortas. The sound is very good although there are a few brief drop-outs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10923-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292665888904,"sku":"10923-4","price":32.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099231236,"sku":"MP3 10923-4","price":16.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10923-4front_ba8e0fcb-67f3-45c4-9186-72d38873b3fe.jpg?v=1751037309"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-thomas-dalis-hotter-london-knappertsbusch","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Thomas, Dalis, Hotter, Weber, London, Neidlinger; Knappertsbusch.  Bayreuth, 1961","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eParsifal\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\u003eLovers of this opera have long treasured the Phillips set conducted by \u003cb\u003eHans Knappertsbusch.\u003c\/b\u003e This performance of \u003ci\u003eParsifal\u003c\/i\u003e draws on much the same cast, offering a closely related yet distinct perspective. Knappertsbusch shapes the score with a remarkable sense of breadth, at times suspending the musical flow in near stillness, only to summon a sudden surge of power from the orchestra. The resulting textures remain notably clear, allowing inner detail to emerge without sacrificing the work’s underlying gravity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eJess Thomas\u003c\/b\u003e offers a notably lyrical Parsifal, his tone marked by a gentle, almost Mozartian sweetness that sets him apart from more overtly heroic interpretations. Alongside him, \u003cb\u003eIrene Dalis\u003c\/b\u003e presents a Kundry of quiet intensity, balancing allure with an undercurrent of unrest that never fully resolves until her redemption in the final moments of the opera. \u003cb\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/b\u003e, while not a true bass, brings a reflective nobility to Gurnemanz, shaping the role with sensitivity and gravitas. George London as Amfortas conveys the characters suffering with a visceral rawness unmatched by any other baritone in this role.\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\u003eAmfortas – \u003cstrong\u003eGEORGE LONDON\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTiturel – \u003cstrong\u003eLUDWIG WEBER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGurnemanz – \u003cstrong\u003eHANS HOTTER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eParsifal – \u003cstrong\u003eJESS THOMAS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKlingsor – \u003cstrong\u003eGUSTAV NEIDLINGER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKundry – \u003cstrong\u003eIRENE DALIS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlto Stimme – \u003cstrong\u003eURSULA BÖSE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKnappe 1 – \u003cstrong\u003eCLAUDIA HELLMANN\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKnappe 2 – \u003cstrong\u003eRUTH HESSE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKnappe 3 – \u003cstrong\u003eHARALD NEUKIRCH\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKnappe 4 – \u003cstrong\u003eGEORG PASKUDA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 1 – \u003cstrong\u003eGUNDULA JANOWITZ\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 2 – \u003cstrong\u003eANJA SILJA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 3 – \u003cstrong\u003eCLAUDIA HELLMANN\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 4 – \u003cstrong\u003eDOROTHEA SIEBERT\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 5 – \u003cstrong\u003eRITA BARTOS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 6 – \u003cstrong\u003eRUTH HESSE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRitter 1 – \u003cstrong\u003eNIELS MOELLER\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRitter 2 – \u003cstrong\u003eDAVID WARD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eBayreuth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1961\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eHans Knappertsbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10240-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292658417800,"sku":"10240-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099237380,"sku":"MP3 10240-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":51698050269505,"sku":"FLAC 10240-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10240-4front.jpg?v=1777934134"},{"product_id":"wagner-tristan-und-isolde-ligendza-wenkoff-minton-kleiber","title":"Wagner: Tristan und Isolde - Wenkoff, Ligendza, Minton, McIntyre, Ridderbusch; C. Kleiber.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven that \u003ci\u003eTristan und Isolde\u003c\/i\u003e was one of the few operas \u003cb\u003eCarlos Kleiber\u003c\/b\u003e conducted regularly, it is fortunate that several recordings exist to document his interpretation. Most of these feature \u003cb\u003eCatarina Ligendza\u003c\/b\u003e as Isolde. Her voice, though lighter than many who take on the role, is managed with admirable control and stamina, allowing her to carry the part through to the end with poise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, the true centerpiece of these performances is \u003cb\u003eSpas Wenkoff\u003c\/b\u003e as Tristan. His voice has a burnished quality, and his breath control is nothing short of extraordinary. He brings a tortured emotional intensity—never strained vocally—that fits the role perfectly. Kleiber’s conducting is consistently fresh and inspired, revealing nuances that set these performances apart from the more familiar DG release. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10262-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292657696904,"sku":"10262-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099259012,"sku":"MP3 10262-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50363935162689,"sku":"FLAC 10262-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10262-3front.jpg?v=1751037113"},{"product_id":"wagner-lohengrin-kollo-bode-dvorakova-mcintyre-crass","title":"Wagner: Lohengrin - Kollo, Bode, Dvorakova, McIntyre, Crass, Wixell; Varviso. 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Kollo presents an ethereal, otherworldly knight, offering some of the most exquisitely beautiful singing one could hope to hear from a Heldentenor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI had always thought of \u003cstrong\u003eHannelore Bode\u003c\/strong\u003e as something of a second-tier singer, but her Elsa completely won me over. She displays a rock-solid technique and complete command of Wagner's demanding vocal writing. \u003cstrong\u003eLudmila Dvořáková\u003c\/strong\u003e radiates seductive menace as Ortrud, never allowing the dramatic demands of the role to detract from the inherent beauty of her tone. \u003cstrong\u003eDonald McIntyre\u003c\/strong\u003e is heard here as Telramund with his voice still fresh, before the tone acquired the woollier quality that would characterize his later years. \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Crass\u003c\/strong\u003e brings the same nobility and elegance to King Heinrich that distinguished his celebrated Sarastro. I would also be remiss not to acknowledge the superb Herald of \u003cstrong\u003eIngvar Wixell\u003c\/strong\u003e.\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\u003eHeinrich der Vogler – \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Crass\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLohengrin – \u003cstrong\u003eRené Kollo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eElsa von Brabant – \u003cstrong\u003eHannelore Bode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFriedrich von Telramund – \u003cstrong\u003eDonald McIntyre\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrtrud – \u003cstrong\u003eLudmila Dvořáková\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDer Heerrufer des Königs – \u003cstrong\u003eIngvar Wixell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVier Edle – \u003cstrong\u003eHeribert Steinbach\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVier Edle – \u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Zednik\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVier Edle – \u003cstrong\u003eRudolf Hartmann-Gniffke\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVier Edle – \u003cstrong\u003eHeinz Feldhoff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eBayreuth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly 25, 1971\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eSilvio Varviso\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10267-3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292657533064,"sku":"10267-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":52014702821697,"sku":"MP3 10267-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52014702854465,"sku":"FLAC 10267-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10267-3front.jpg?v=1784901616"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-bailey-kmentt-dernesch","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Bailey, Dernesch, Kmentt, Martin, Ridderbusch, Hemsley; Klobucar.  Bayreuth, 1969","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo other Wagner opera places as much demand on ensemble as \u003cem\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/em\u003e, not only from a musical standpoint but also in the intricate interplay of personal dynamics between the characters. This complexity often results in casts that may look impressive on paper but fail to truly connect, losing the essence of what makes Wagner’s most human opera so compelling. Thankfully, this stellar cast avoids that pitfall entirely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e embodies Hans Sachs, his gruff yet warm voice perfectly suited to the character’s avuncular nature. \u003cstrong\u003eHelga Dernesch\u003c\/strong\u003e, at the start of her career, brings a radiant tone to Eva Pogner. 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His willingness to set aside past choices in favor of new insights—whether prompted by different casts, staging concepts, or his own artistic curiosity—results in a reading that feels deeply organic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"406\" data-end=\"878\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"406\" data-end=\"429\"\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"434\" data-end=\"449\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/strong\u003e bring a youthful vitality to Parsifal and Kundry, with Mödl delivering a near-flawless performance, embracing the demanding high notes that would challenge her in later years. \u003cstrong data-start=\"626\" data-end=\"643\"\u003eJosef Greindl\u003c\/strong\u003e’s Gurnemanz is warm and approachable, while \u003cstrong data-start=\"688\" data-end=\"703\"\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e imbues Amfortas with the appropriate anguish yet retains a sense of youth and virility. A fascinating document of Knappertsbusch’s ever-evolving relationship with \u003cem data-start=\"867\" data-end=\"877\"\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"406\" data-end=\"878\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10487-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292645802120,"sku":"10487-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099238980,"sku":"MP3 10487-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50240310477121,"sku":"FLAC 10487-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10487-4front.jpg?v=1751036897"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-hotter-windgassen-brouwenstijn-fischer-dieskau-cluytens","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg - Hotter, Windgassen, Brouwenstijn, Greindl, Fischer-Dieskau; Cluytens. 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The cast also boasts standout performances from \u003cstrong\u003eJosef Greindl\u003c\/strong\u003e as a noble Veit Pogner and, in a true luxury, \u003cstrong\u003eDietrich Fischer-Dieskau\u003c\/strong\u003e as Fritz Kothner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAndré Cluytens\u003c\/strong\u003e deserves to be counted among the great Wagner conductors of his era. He shapes the opera’s massive ensembles with the kind of care and nuance usually reserved for chamber music.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sound is excellent, though there is occasional static.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBONUS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHans Hotter sings \u003cem\u003e\"Tatest du's wirklich?\"\u003c\/em\u003e from \u003cem\u003eTristan und Isolde.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOsaka, 1969\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10492-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292645638280,"sku":"10492-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099190916,"sku":"MP3 10492-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50260140720449,"sku":"FLAC 10492-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10492-4front.jpg?v=1751036892"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-vickers-ericson-hotter-stewart-neidlinger-knappertsbusch","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Vickers, Ericson, Hotter, Stewart, Neidlinger; Knappertsbusch.  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Much like his Tristan, Vickers makes the character’s torment deeply felt in a way few tenors can match. \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e, in his later years, uses the burnished quality of his voice to powerful effect as Gurnemanz, blending his legendary Lieder artistry into a performance filled with nuance and quiet introspection. \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/strong\u003e, at his peak in 1964, delivers a portrayal of Amfortas that is both virile and tormented.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs Kundry, \u003cstrong\u003eBarbro Ericson\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a more aloof and enigmatic quality in Act I and early Act II compared to \u003cstrong\u003eIrene Dalis'\u003c\/strong\u003e interpretation. 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Leonie Rysanek and Astrid Varnay, while both possessing voices suited to Wagner, were very different artists who rarely overlapped in roles. 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The rest of the cast is very good particularly the third Norn of Anita Välkki. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 11037-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292636070024,"sku":"11037-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099222788,"sku":"MP3 11037-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/11037-4front.jpg?v=1751036578"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-mcintyre-randova-zednik-keleman-boulez","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - McIntyre, Randová, Zednik, Kélémen, Salminen; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the outset, this production was marked by volatility. A vocal and seemingly organized faction of the audience was determined to resist Patrice Chéreau’s revolutionary approach to staging Wagner, a shift that would forever change the landscape of opera direction. This tension is palpable in the recording, and while the visuals aren’t available, the energy is unmistakable. The entire cast, galvanized by their participation in this pivotal moment for opera, delivers a performance crackling with electricity, alongside Pierre Boulez's inspired conducting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne notable variation from the commercial release is Eva Randová as Fricka. Randová portrays Fricka as more of a sharp-tongued harridan than a regal queen. The sound quality is excellent, capturing the intensity and historic significance of this landmark production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10746-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292635676808,"sku":"10746-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099160132,"sku":"MP3 10746-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10746-2front.jpeg?v=1751036567"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-jones-mcintyre-bode-hofmann-randova-salminen-boulez","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - McIntyre, Jones, Bode, Hofmann, Randová, Salminen; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor my money, this recording of \u003cem\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/em\u003e far surpasses the commercial release. My biggest gripe with Boulez’s studio release was the pacing—often too fast to let Wagner’s music truly breathe. While I appreciate a brisk tempo as much as anyone, some moments demand the audience be allowed to luxuriate in the music. In this version, Boulez strikes that balance beautifully, particularly in the Act I duet, which carries a languid quality absent in the commercial release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, Boulez isn’t without fault here. His hurried tempo during \"O hehrste Wunder\" in Act III almost leaves poor Hannelore Bode scrambling to keep up. Conversely, the fire music at the end is conducted at breakneck speed, but this rapid tempo creates an atmosphere that feels weightless and ethereal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe singers are all in excellent form. Gwyneth Jones sounds far more comfortable than she would five years later, delivering acrobatic \u003cem\u003ehojotohos\u003c\/em\u003e with ease. Donald McIntyre’s Wanderer is less leathery in tone, and Peter Hofmann’s Siegmund is a standout. In the 1970s, Hofmann was more than just a pretty face—his stentorian tenor voice here is both attractive and commanding. Unfortunately, Hannelore Bode disappoints as Sieglinde, but Eva Randová’s exciting Fricka channels the fiery intensity of Irene Dalis. The sound quality is excellent, making this recording a must-hear for Wagner enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10747-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292635644040,"sku":"10747-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099203716,"sku":"MP3 10747-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10747-3front.jpeg?v=1751036566"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-kollo-jones-mcintyre-keleman-schwarz-boulez","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Kollo, Zednik, Jones, McIntyre, Kéléman, Rundgren, Schwarz; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most notable and welcome additions to the cast of \u003cem\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/em\u003e during this production’s debut was René Kollo in the title role. Kollo’s voice effortlessly meets both the lyrical and dramatic demands of the role, something Manfred Jung - who took over the role for the recording - couldn’t quite achieve. Gwyneth Jones also shines brighter here than in the later revival, treating the audience to some stunning high Cs that could easily rival those of Nilsson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDonald McIntyre delivers a standout performance, appearing more at ease as the Wanderer than in any other opera of the cycle. Heinz Zednik is superb as Mime, bringing depth and precision to the character. The sound quality is excellent, adding to the overall experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf note, this performance had its share of audience drama. The anti-Chéreau contingent was out in force, with one particularly vocal dissenter bringing a whistle and cheekily accompanying Siegfried’s reed-making scene, much to the amusement and frustration of the rest of the audience. Fortunately, they settled down for the remainder of the opera, allowing the brilliance of the performance to shine through uninterrupted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10748-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292635611272,"sku":"10748-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099246020,"sku":"MP3 10748-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10748-3front.jpeg?v=1751036564"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-jones-thomas-ridderbusch-minton-keleman-boulez","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Jones, Thomas, Ridderbusch, Arvidson, Minton, Keleman; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’re a fan of Gwyneth Jones, this recording of \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e is an absolute treasure. It captures the Welsh soprano at the peak of her powers, combining immense dramatic intensity with the lyrical finesse that defined her early career. Her performance is nothing short of extraordinary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJess Thomas, though slightly past his prime and sounding somewhat dry, handles the demanding role of Siegfried with commendable skill. Karl Ridderbusch delivers an intriguing Hagen, portraying him with a stately cold-bloodedness that feels more calculated than unhinged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePierre Boulez’s conducting is inspired from start to finish, clearly energized by the caliber of the production and the stellar cast. The second act, in particular, is a tour de force—arguably the most thrilling rendition I’ve ever heard. The sound quality is excellent, and I’ve included the applause at the end, which features a prominent mix of cheers and boos. This recording is not only a testament to the performance but also a reminder of the uproar it sparked—complete with riots and police intervention. Not bad for a work celebrating its centennial at the time!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10749-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292635119752,"sku":"10749-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099217348,"sku":"MP3 10749-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10749-4front.jpeg?v=1751036563"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-jones-kollo-thomas-mcintyre-hofmann-bode-boulez-bayreuth-1976","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Jones, Kollo, Thomas, McIntyre, Hofmann, Bode; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1976","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy first experience with opera came when I was 3 years old. My father was watching the Chéreau \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e. According to him, I went and sat on his lap and watched the whole thing with him in rapt silence. It seems fitting that I should be initiated in such a way and even though I don’t remember this experience, as I would go on to cultivate an obsession both with Wagner and with Gwyneth Jones (as many of the regulars already know.) I was beyond pleased to encounter this \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e and find that on almost every front it is better than the commercial release. Pierre Boulez’s conducting is nuanced and varied favoring brisk tempi but not being afraid to slow down when the music calls for it. Gwyneth Jones is at her absolute best delivering a performance that is remarkable both for its beauty and dramatic force (and not to mention some unparalleled high Cs.) In addition there are some interesting variations including René Kollo as \"Der junge\" Siegfried, Jess Thomas as the \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e Siegfried, Karl Ridderbusch as one of the most suave Hagens you will ever come across and Eva Randová as a wonderfully hysterical Fricka. The sound is excellent!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10750-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634923144,"sku":"10750-12","price":99.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099171332,"sku":"MP3 10750-2","price":51.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10750-12front.jpeg?v=1751036556"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-cox-shuard-crass-stewart-ridderbusch-mcintyre-boulez","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Cox, Shuard, Crass, Stewart, Ridderbusch, McIntyre; Boulez.  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The cast is rounded out by Thomas Stewart as a heroic Amfortas and Donald McIntyre as Klingsor. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10781-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634005640,"sku":"10781-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099229892,"sku":"MP3 10781-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10781-4front_fe1e5c2d-6de2-4ffc-a1fd-00209b59fc49.jpg?v=1751036519"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-hotter-malaniuk-neidlinger-uhde-stolze-greindl-keilberth","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Hotter, Malaniuk, Neidlinger, Witte, Uhde, Stolze; Keilberth.  Bayreuth, 1953","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/em\u003e in many ways is the most difficult opera of the \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e to pull off. Of all the operas, it is the most plot-driven and has the fewest show-stopping numbers. And although the vocal demands are formidable, more than anything it requires an ensemble that is able to play off of one another in order to properly set up the following three nights. This recording delivers on that front. Hans Hotter is possibly one of the most human Wotans. Hardly lacking in gravitas, his Wotan is more of a thinker than a bellower. Ira Malaniuk is a rich-voiced Fricka. Gustav Neidlinger adds a touch of elegance to Alberich. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10783-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633841800,"sku":"10783-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099159556,"sku":"MP3 10783-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10783-2front.jpg?v=1751036516"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-modl-hotter-vinay-resnik-greindl-keilberth","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Mödl, Hotter, Vinay, Resnik, Malaniuk, Greindl; Keilberth.  Bayreuth, 1953","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Martha Mödl sang her debut at the Metropolitan Opera as Isolde, she literally stopped the show after Isolde's Act I Narration and Curse. It takes a huge force of nature to stop the momentum of a Wagner opera, but hearing her Brünnhilde, one gets a sense of the visceral power the could inspire such hysteria even during a performance of a Wagner opera. However, Mödl's artistry was more than just reckless abandon, and she achieves some beautiful moments of total vulnerability. Hans Hotter's Wotan is a shade softer than many of his colleagues who have barked his way through this role. He crafts his singing at many points with the same delicacy that he so famously brought to Lieder. A young Regina Resnik is surprisingly good as Sieglinde and, despite the weight of her middle voice, seems to have little trouble with any of Sieglinde's high notes. She is certainly well matched by Ramón Vinay as Siegmund. It is amusing that both artists would find themselves singing repertoire one notch lower not ten years later. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10784-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633809032,"sku":"10784-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099211396,"sku":"MP3 10784-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10784-3front.jpg?v=1751036515"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-windgassen-modl-hotter-neidlinger-greindl-streich-keilberth","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Windgassen, Mödl, Hotter, Kuen, Neidlinger, Greindl, Streich; Keilberth.  Bayreuth, 1953","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough Wolfgang Windgassen was nearly 40 when this performance took place, he delivers one of the most fresh-voiced Siegfrieds ever recorded, seemingly undaunted by the size of the orchestra or the brutal tessitura. From his entrance, effortlessly sailing up to high C (a note almost always omitted), his Siegfried is an explosion of boundless energy which doesn't cease until the final duet. Although Hans Hotter was immortalized on the legendary Solti \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e, he was a last minute replacement for George London and past his prime. This recording preserves him at his finest. Martha Mödl is in astonishing voice in her brief appearance as Brünnhilde. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10785-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633776264,"sku":"10785-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099251460,"sku":"MP3 10785-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10785-4front.jpg?v=1751036514"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-modl-windgassen-greindl-uhde-neidlinger-resnik-keilberth","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Windgassen, Mödl, Greindl, Uhde, Neidlinger, Resnik; Keilberth.  Bayreuth, 1953","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the years following the Bayreuth Festival's post-WWII revival, the stage was set for a new generation of Wagnerian stars, including Martha Mödl, Wolfgang Windgassen, and Josef Greindl. Though Mödl’s vocal prime was brief, that brief window delivered performances of unmatched intensity and dramatic integrity, and this recording showcases that power.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWindgassen’s Siegfried is fresh and bold, while Greindl’s Hagen is dark and foreboding. Regina Resnik’s Third Norn is the definition of luxury casting. The sound quality is exceptional, capturing the clarity of both the vocal performances and the lush orchestration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis recording is a vibrant testament to Bayreuth’s postwar renaissance, where dramatic passion and vocal brilliance came together in unforgettable performances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10786-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633743496,"sku":"10786-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099218052,"sku":"MP3 10786-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10786-4front.jpg?v=1751036512"},{"product_id":"wagner-ring-excerpts-modl-windgassen-hotter-resnik-vinay-greindl-keilberth","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen EXCERPTS - Mödl, Windgassen, Hotter, Resnik, Vinay, Greindl; Keilberth.  Bayreuth, 1953","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe years after the reopening of the Bayreuth Festival after World War II would prove to be some of the greatest in the storied history of Bayreuth. Wieland Wagner brought in fresh talent and made stars out of the likes of Martha Mödl, Wolfgang Windgassen and others. This particular Cycle is an incredibly valuable document for many reasons not least of which it captures Martha Mödl in the relatively shorty window where she was unfettered by vocal crises. That is not to see that there aren't moments when her voice seems to buckle under the pressure but she more than makes up for it by delivering one of the most human Brünnhildes I have ever come across. She plays beautifully off of the Wotan of Hans Hotter and the two create magic in the last act of \u003cem\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/em\u003e. A fresh-voiced Wolfgang Windgassen sings Siegfried. His interpretation would deepen as his career progressed but no where else does he sound as youthful and fearless in this, the most difficult of all tenor roles. Other highlights of this set include the unexpected Sieglinde of Regina Resnik, paired with fellow fach-straddler, Ramón Vinay as Siegmund. Joseph Keilberth leads a varied and dynamic reading. Moreover there is a sense of intimacy in this performance that really sets it apart from any other \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e that I have heard. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10788-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633710728,"sku":"10788-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099241988,"sku":"MP3 10788-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10788-2front.jpg?v=1751036511"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-modl-windgassen-hotter-resnik-vinay-greindl-neidlinger-uhde-keilberth-bayreuth-1953","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Mödl, Windgassen, Hotter, Resnik, Vinay, Greindl, Neidlinger, Uhde; Keilberth.  Bayreuth, 1953","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe years after the reopening of the Bayreuth Festival after World War II would prove to be some of the greatest in the storied history of Bayreuth. Wieland Wagner brought in fresh talent and made stars out of the likes of Martha Mödl, Wolfgang Windgassen and others. This particular Cycle is an incredibly valuable document for many reasons not least of which it captures Martha Mödl in the relatively shorty window where she was unfettered by vocal crises. That is not to see that there aren’t moments when her voice seems to buckle under the pressure but she more than makes up for it by delivering one of the most human Brünnhildes I have ever come across. She plays beautifully off of the Wotan of Hans Hotter and the two create magic in the last act of \u003cem\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/em\u003e. A fresh-voiced Wolfgang Windgassen sings Siegfried. His interpretation would deepen as his career progressed but no where else does he sound as youthful and fearless in this, the most difficult of all tenor roles. Other highlights of this set include the unexpected Sieglinde of Regina Resnik, paired with fellow fach-straddler, Ramón Vinay as Siegmund. Joseph Keilberth leads a varied and dynamic reading. Moreover there is a sense of intimacy in this performance that really sets it apart from any other \u003cem\u003eRing\u003c\/em\u003e that I have heard. The sound is excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10787-13\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633514120,"sku":"10787-13","price":107.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099175492,"sku":"MP3 10787-13","price":55.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10787-13front.jpg?v=1751036502"},{"product_id":"wagner-tannhauser-jones-weikl-beresford-sotin-leinsdorf","title":"Wagner: Tannhäuser - Beresford, Jones, Jones, Weikl, Sotin; Leinsdorf.  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The sound is good although there are occasional clicks in Act III.  In addition, I can't be certain if the overture is from this performance as they use the Paris Version while then reverting to the Dresden version when the opera begins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10798-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633317512,"sku":"10798-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099254404,"sku":"MP3 10798-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10798-3front.jpg?v=1751036496"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-mcintyre-esser-reynolds-neidlinger-zednik-ridderbusch-stein","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - McIntyre, Reynolds, Esser, Neidlinger, Zednik, Ridderbusch, Moll; Stein.  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The sound quality is generally strong, though there are a few brief moments of skipping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10800-2\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633251976,"sku":"10800-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099160004,"sku":"MP3 10800-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10800-2front.jpg?v=1751036493"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-jones-mcintyre-napier-king-ridderbusch-stein","title":"Wagner: Die Waküre - Jones, McIntyre, Napier, King, Ridderbusch, Reynolds; Stein. Bayreuth, 1975","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis performance of \u003cem\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/em\u003e captures Gwyneth Jones right at the moment when she was beginning to hit her stride as a Wagnerian soprano and displays a soprano that is both lush and steely but also capable of delicate singing particularly in the last scene with Wotan.  Donald McIntyre brings a more human approach to Wotan, eschewing the Bayreuth bark in favor of a more introspective approach.  James King's Siegmund is both stentorian and fresh in a way that you would not expect from a tenor who had been singing some of the most dramatic rep for the past twenty years.  His \u003cem\u003e\"Winterstürme\"\u003c\/em\u003e in particular should serve as model to would-be heldentenors that singing Wagner is not just about power.  Marita Napier is a disappointment as Sieglinde.  The voice is unfocused and strident.  Horst Stein gives enormous attention to the melodic lyricism of this opera finding musical lines even in the most bombastic moments.  The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10801-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633219208,"sku":"10801-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099203908,"sku":"MP3 10801-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10801-3front.jpg?v=1751036492"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-cox-jones-mcintyre-zednik-hoffgen-stein","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Cox, Jones, McIntyre, Zednik, Neidlinger, Höffgen; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1975","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI think that it is fair to say that very few tenors have hit all the marks with Siegfried.  If they excel in the lyrical moments it often comes at the expense of the more dramatic moments and vice versa.   That said, Jean Cox proves that he is almost ideal, bringing both sensitivity and power to the role.  The attractive quality of his voice never seems to buckle under the pressure of the orchestra, although at times the vibrato can get a little unfocused and the characterization can be a little generic.  But even if he is not a great Siegfried a very good Siegfried is certainly a rare bird.  Donald McIntyre seems most comfortable as the Wanderer and brings an avuncular warmth.  Heinz Zednik's wiry Mime finds a great balance between comic and grotesque and at times even comes across as likable.  Gwyneth Jones is radiant in her brief but athletic appearance in the final scene.  The sound is very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10802-3\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633186440,"sku":"10802-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099244164,"sku":"MP3 10802-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10802-3front.jpg?v=1751036490"},{"product_id":"wagner-ring-jones-mcintyre-cox-king-napier-ridderbusch-reynolds-stein","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen (EXCERPTS) - Jones, Cox, McIntyre, Ridderbusch, King, Napier, Reynolds; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1975","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may be asking why you need another \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e and the answer is quite simple: Horst Stein. Stein was a conductor who never really rose to the top but, in my opinion, deserves a place next to the great Wagnerian interpreters of his day. Stein's approach was unfussy and free of mannerisms which in the era of Karajan and Knappertsbusch is quite refreshing. Instead, he brought a keen ear to the musical line and manages to shape even some of the most bombastic music into lyrical melodies. This approach seems to benefit the singers enormously. The tempos are fleet while remaining elastic and whereas many conductors get lured in by the detail of the orchestration, the vocal line remains for Stein the driving force of the music. His efforts benefit enormously from a stellar cast including Gwyneth Jones as Brünnhilde, Jean Cox as Siegmund Karl Ridderbusch as Fasolt, Hunding and Hagen and James King as Siegmund. The sound is quite good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10805-1\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292633153672,"sku":"10805-1","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099242820,"sku":"MP3 10805-1","price":5.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10805-1front.jpg?v=1751036489"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-modl-vinay-greindl-london-knappertsbusch","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Vinay, Mödl, Greindl, London, Blankenheim; Knappertsbusch. Bayreuth, 1957","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAny \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e featuring legends like Martha Mödl and Hans Knappertsbusch is a thrilling prospect, but this recording has the added allure of Ramón Vinay in the title role. By 1957, Vinay was nearing the end of his tenor career, yet \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e proved a perfect match for his voice. He sings with remarkable ease and power throughout the evening, and despite the baritonal warmth of his tenor, he still convincingly conveys the innocent wonder of the title character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMartha Mödl, on the brink of a \u003cem\u003efach\u003c\/em\u003e shift as her voice bore the strain of years of Wagnerian roles, delivers a Kundry that is anything but polished—yet utterly compelling. The vocal wear and tear that troubled her performances of Fidelio and Brünnhilde at this stage in her career surprisingly works in her favor here, exposing Kundry's raw desperation. It may not be pretty, but it’s undeniably riveting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGeorge London is superb as Amfortas, and Josef Greindl offers a sympathetic Gurnemanz, though he falls slightly short in elegance. The sound quality is excellent, making this a recording well worth exploring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10811-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292632957064,"sku":"10811-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099232708,"sku":"MP3 10811-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10811-4front.jpg?v=1751036482"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-jones-cox-ridderbusch-mazura-neidlinger-stein-bayreuth-1975","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Jones, Cox, Ridderbusch, Mazura, Neidlinger; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1975","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy first time experiencing Wagner in the theater was about twenty years ago at the Metropolitan Opera. The opera was \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e and featured Gwyneth Jones as Brünnhilde. I will never forget the sensation of hearing her voice open up at \u003cem\u003e\"Zu neuen Taten.\"\u003c\/em\u003e As the evening progressed it seemed as if there was no end to her vocal reserves and needless to say I became an instant Wagnerian. This recording taken about twenty years earlier finds her in even greater voice and she fearlessly (and almost recklessly) plows through the almost-impossible vocal writing of Act II as if no one told her that singing Wagner can be bad for your voice. Jean Cox is a sturdy Siegfried and displays that he even had a respectable high-C. Karl Ridderbusch is a formidable Hagen and brings a touch of elegance to the part that you rarely hear. Franz Mazura and Anna Reynolds make equally worthy contributions as Gunther and Waltraute respectively. Although the sound is for the most part very good there are about a dozen moments where the recording will jump about a second. This happens mostly during the first half hour or so of the opera. That said, if you can brace yourself for a few bumps in the road I think you will really enjoy this stunning performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10803-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292632825992,"sku":"10803-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099216900,"sku":"MP3 10803-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10803-4front.jpg?v=1751036478"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-jones-cox-mcintyre-ridderbusch-king-stein-bayreuth-1975","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Jones, Cox, McIntyre, Ridderbusch, King; Stein.  Bayreuth, 1975","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou may be asking why you need another \u003cem\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/em\u003e and the answer is quite simple: Horst Stein. Stein was a conductor who never really rose to the top but, in my opinion, deserves a place next to the great Wagnerian interpreters of his day. Stein’s approach was unfussy and free of mannerisms which in the era of Karajan and Knappertsbusch is quite refreshing. Instead, he brought a keen ear to the musical line and manages to shape even some of the most bombastic music into lyrical melodies. This approach seems to benefit the singers enormously. The tempos are fleet while remaining elastic and whereas many conductors get lured in by the detail of the orchestration, the vocal line remains for Stein the driving force of the music. His efforts benefit enormously from a stellar cast including Gwyneth Jones as Brünnhilde, Jean Cox as Siegmund Karl Ridderbusch as Fasolt, Hunding and Hagen and James King as Siegmund. The sound for the most part is also quite good with one caveat: During \u003cem\u003eRheingold\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/em\u003e the music occasionally jumps a second. These moments are indeed jarring but are rather infrequent in the context of the whole opera.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10804-12\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292632793224,"sku":"10804-12","price":99.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099169476,"sku":"MP3 10804-12","price":51.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10804-12front.jpg?v=1751036476"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-thomas-varnay-hotter-talvela-neidlinger-silja-cluytens","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Thomas, Varnay, Adam, Hotter, Talvela, Neidlinger, Silja; Cluytens.  Bayreuth, 1965","description":"\u003ch1\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis performance of \u003cem\u003eParsifal\u003c\/em\u003e is precious for many reasons but the biggest draw for me is the Kundry of Astrid Varnay. It is perplexing why Varnay did not sing this role more as it fits both her voice and temperament like a glove. And although by the sixties she was already eschewing her former soprano roles in favor of mezzo parts, Kundry is still well within her comfort zone. She is joined by Jess Thomas whose voice was beginning to show the ravages of a heavy diet of Wagner. That said, there is still a lyrical quality that makes for a convincing Parsifal. Although Hans Hotter was never a true bass, by 1965 his voice had darkened to a great extent making the leap to these roles seem plausible and he brings a fatherly quality to Gurnemanz. André Cluytens shows his mastery as a Wagnerian, creating a performance that is neither fast nor slow and filled with beautiful color and detail. The sound for the most part is good, although there are a few moments at the end of the Good Friday Scene where the tape must have gone a little haywire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOD 10822-4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292631515272,"sku":"10822-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099237828,"sku":"MP3 10822-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10822-4front.jpg?v=1751036466"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/collections\/Bayreuth.webp?v=1784903734","url":"https:\/\/operadepot.com\/collections\/recordings-from-bayreuth.oembed?page=4","provider":"Opera Depot","version":"1.0","type":"link"}