{"title":"The Divas of Sadler's Wells","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"janacek-makropulos-case-haywood-mackerras","title":"Janacek: The Makropulos Case (In English) - Haywood, Woollam, Swift, Herincx, R. Remedios; Mackerras.  London, 1975","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eThe Makropulos Case\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeoš Janáček (1854–1928)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the 1960s and 1970s Janacek was enjoying a revival in Great Britain thanks in great part to the efforts of Sir \u003cb\u003eCharles Mackerras\u003c\/b\u003e. Some of that credit, however, also goes to soprano \u003cb\u003eMarie Collier\u003c\/b\u003e who created many memorable evenings as Jenufa and Emilia Marty. When Collier died under mysterious circumstances in 1971, \u003cb\u003eLorna Haywood\u003c\/b\u003e inherited many of her roles. Haywood's voice was somewhat similar to Collier's. It was slender yet steely which meant that she could bring a youthful innocence to heavier parts including even Sieglinde which she sang in Goodall's legendary \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing\u003c\/span\u003e. She is joined by an excellent cast of Sadler's Wells veterans including \u003cb\u003eRaimund Herincx\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eTom Swift\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eKenneth Woollam\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eRamon Remedios\u003c\/b\u003e. Charles Mackerras proves why he was such an effective advocate for the operas of Janacek.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmilia Marty – \u003cstrong\u003eLorna Haywood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlbert Gregor – \u003cstrong\u003eKenneth Woollam\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVitek – \u003cstrong\u003eTom Swift\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKrista – \u003cstrong\u003eHannah Francis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJaroslav Prus – \u003cstrong\u003eRaimund Herincx\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJanek – \u003cstrong\u003eRamon Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDr. Kolenaty – \u003cstrong\u003eEric Shilling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHauk-Sendorf – \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Byles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCleaning Lady – \u003cstrong\u003eSheila Rex\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStage Carpenter – \u003cstrong\u003ePatrick Wheatley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMaid – \u003cstrong\u003eIris Saunders\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eNovember 15, 1975\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eCharles Mackerras\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10917-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eBONUS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eMarie Collier sings the final scene of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eThe Makropulos Case\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLondon, 1971\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666085512,"sku":"10917-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098704836,"sku":"MP3 10917-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080009806145,"sku":"FLAC 10917-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080009838913,"sku":"FLACUP 10917-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10917-2front.jpg?v=1751037315"},{"product_id":"britten-midsummer-night-dream-veasey-vaughan-baker","title":"Britten: A Midsummer Night's Dream - Veasey, Vaughan, Baker, Young, Bryn-Jones, Langdon, Guy; Balkwill.  London, 1966","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eA Midsummer Night's Dream\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBenjamin Britten (1913–1976)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eOf all the great adaptations of Shakespeare in the world of opera (and there are many) \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eA Midsummer Night's Dream\u003c\/span\u003e, in my opinion, is the most successful at replicating the feel of Shakespearean style. Whereas other composers drew inspiration from Shakespeare but ultimately presented it through the lens of the musical zeitgeist, \u003cb\u003eBenjamin Britten\u003c\/b\u003e seemed more keen on letting the action and text act as a springboard thereby creating a style that, although bearing the signature of Britten, seems to have sprung organically out of the Elizabethan era. This recording is interesting not only for the stellar cast, but also for the fact that it is a rare (possibly singular) performance in which the role of Oberon is played by a woman instead of a countertenor. With a woman's voice you lose a touch of the ethereal quality, but \u003cb\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/b\u003e's strong mezzo makes up for it by giving the role a gravitas and commanding presence that most countertenors can't muster. The rest of the cast includes \u003cb\u003eJanet Baker\u003c\/b\u003e as Hermia, \u003cb\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/b\u003e as Demetrius, \u003cb\u003eElizabeth Vaughan\u003c\/b\u003e as Titania and \u003cb\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/b\u003e as Bottom.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eOberon – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTitania – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Vaughan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHermia – \u003cstrong\u003eJanet Baker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLysander – \u003cstrong\u003eAlexander Young\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDemetrius – \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHelena – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Robson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePuck – \u003cstrong\u003eKaplan Kay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBottom – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTheseus – \u003cstrong\u003eVictor Godfrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHippolyta – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePeaseblossom – \u003cstrong\u003ePhilip Celner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCobweb – \u003cstrong\u003eNicolas Freakes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMustardseed – \u003cstrong\u003eAlan Hammant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMoth – \u003cstrong\u003eGunther Wassertheurer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eQuince – \u003cstrong\u003eDennis Wicks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFlute – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Lanigan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSnug – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Kelly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSnout – \u003cstrong\u003eKenneth McDonald\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStarveling – \u003cstrong\u003eKeith Ragget\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePhilostrate – \u003cstrong\u003eBeaufoy Milton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJanuary 25, 1966\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eBryan Balkwill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10918-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292666052744,"sku":"10918-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098618948,"sku":"MP3 10918-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080009871681,"sku":"FLAC 10918-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080009904449,"sku":"FLACUP 10918-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10918-2front_643ddd4f-5347-4c6c-a98d-e77ec77b71c6.jpg?v=1751037314"},{"product_id":"puccini-edgar-tinsley","title":"Puccini: Edgar - Tinsley, Dowd, Biggar, Sharpe, Dodgson; Balkwill.  1972","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eEdgar\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiacomo Puccini (1858–1924)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eI am convinced that \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eEdgar\u003c\/span\u003e would be in the standard repertoire of opera companies if it weren't for one glaring flaw. The libretto is absolute gibberish. The story is an Italian \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eTannhäuser\u003c\/span\u003e of sorts about a man who has to choose between virtue and sexual desire. Despite the ham-fisted story, Puccini demonstrates a very advanced understanding of orchestration, ambiance and, of course, melody. Musically this score seems the work of a seasoned opera composer and not a relative newcomer. British soprano \u003cb\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/b\u003e is radiant as Fidelia.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eFidelia – \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEdgar – \u003cstrong\u003eRonald Dowd\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTigrana – \u003cstrong\u003eMarjorie Biggar\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrank – \u003cstrong\u003eTerence Sharpe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGualtiero – \u003cstrong\u003eJolyon Dodgson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1972\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eBryan Balkwill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10922-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292665921672,"sku":"10922-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098753860,"sku":"MP3 10922-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080010133825,"sku":"FLAC 10922-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080010166593,"sku":"FLACUP 10922-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10922-2front.jpg?v=1751037310"},{"product_id":"wagner-rienzi-mitchinson-haywood-mcdonnall-langdon-herincx-ward-downes-london-1976","title":"Wagner: Rienzi - Mitchinson, Haywood, McDonnall, Langdon, Herincx, Ward; Downes.  London, 1976","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eRienzi\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlthough \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRienzi\u003c\/span\u003e is not quite up to the artistic level of Wagner's \"mature works\", the piece has many memorable moments and an overall energetic, youthful drive to it that reminds me of early Verdi. Similar to Verdi's early works, there is also a strong patriotic component which makes for some stirring choruses and ensembles as well as some beautiful arias, in addition to the famous \"Prayer\", including Adriano's \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003e\"Gerechter Gott…\"\u003c\/span\u003e This cast of mostly Brits does an excellent job pulling off the performance. At nearly four hours of music, this is likely one of the most complete Rienzis available (it even included ensembles not in the vocal score I was following.) In the theater this work would most certainly need to be cut, but with the luxury of being able to advance to the next track, this recording is a very interesting window into Wagner's early composition technique. \u003cb\u003eJohn Mitchinson\u003c\/b\u003e brings a burly tone and solid technique to the title role. \u003cb\u003eLorna Haywood\u003c\/b\u003e is a stand-out as Adriano. The purity of her voice gives her credibility in a pants role and her lush voice serves her well during the dramatic moments of a character that can be considered a proto-Elsa of sorts. \u003cb\u003eEdward Downes\u003c\/b\u003e leads a performance that favors broad tempi without shortchanging the energetic and rousing ensembles.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eRienzi – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Mitchinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAdriano – \u003cstrong\u003eLorna Haywood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIrene – \u003cstrong\u003eLois McDonald\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eColonna – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrsini – \u003cstrong\u003eRaimund Herincx\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRaimondo – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBaroncelli – \u003cstrong\u003eAdrian de Peyer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCecco del Vecchio – \u003cstrong\u003ePaul Hudson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMessenger of Peace – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Gale\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHerald – \u003cstrong\u003eBrian Cookson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJune 27, 1976\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Downes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10915-4\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 \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292665790600,"sku":"10915-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099240900,"sku":"MP3 10915-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080010330433,"sku":"FLAC 10915-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080010363201,"sku":"FLACUP 10915-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10915-4front.jpg?v=1751037305"},{"product_id":"wagner-walkure-hunter-meier-vickers","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Hunter, Shinall, Vickers, Meier; Holt. Philadelphia, 1976","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n  \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv\u003e\n    \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"font-size: 18px; font-family: Baskerville; font-style: italic; color: #330065; font-weight: normal; text-transform: none;\"\u003eDie Walküre\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\" style=\"font-weight: bold; color: #330065; font-size: 21px;\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThis performance of \u003ci\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/i\u003e brings together three distinguished Wagnerians whos paths converged by notably different paths. \u003cb\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/b\u003e, fresh from her triumph in the legendary ENO Goodall Ring, here has the opportunity to return to Wagner in the original German. The sheer power of her tone is matched by the exquisite delicacy she brings to the role, particularly in “War es so schmählich,” which carries the vulnerability of a line uttered by a frightened teenager.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eJohanna Meier\u003c\/b\u003e had been making the rounds of the American regional circuit, establishing herself as a singer of exceptional dramatic and vocal range. She is paired with \u003cb\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/b\u003e, who, although by then in his fifties, still delivers a Siegmund brimming with youthful vitality and soulful nuance. \u003cb\u003eVern Shinall\u003c\/b\u003e gives an admirable account of Wotan, more than holding his own within this formidable cast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003eThe orchestra plays with remarkable accuracy, though at times it is all too apparent that the brass section is reduced.\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\" style=\"font-weight: bold; color: #330065; font-size: 21px;\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Siegmund – \u003cstrong\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Sieglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eJohanna Meier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Hunding – \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Wilderman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Wotan – \u003cstrong\u003eVern Shinall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Brünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Fricka – \u003cstrong\u003eLouise Pearl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Gerhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eLise Carlson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Ortlinde – \u003cstrong\u003eSusan Leider\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Waltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eNancy Jackson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Schwertleite – \u003cstrong\u003eCarol Shuster\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Helmwige – \u003cstrong\u003eMartha Dodds\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Siegrune – \u003cstrong\u003eSharon Dworchak\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Grimgerde – \u003cstrong\u003eKay Bates\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Roßweiße – \u003cstrong\u003eMarilyn Found\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003chr\u003e\n    \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\" style=\"font-weight: bold; color: #330065; font-size: 21px;\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n    \u003cp\u003e\n      Location: \u003cstrong\u003eAcademy of Music, Philadelphia\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Date: \u003cstrong\u003eDecember 17, 1976\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eHenry Holt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10138-3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n      \u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":67873236877633,"sku":"10138-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":67873236910401,"sku":"MP3 10138-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":67873236943169,"sku":"FLAC 10138-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10138-3front.jpg?v=1791908697"},{"product_id":"mascagni-cavalleria-rusticana-tinsley-domingo-mastromei","title":"Mascagni: Cavalleria Rusticana - Tinsley, Domingo, Mastromei, Begg, Knight; Stapleton.  London, 1976","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nSantuzza – \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTuriddu – \u003cstrong\u003ePlacido Domingo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAlfio – \u003cstrong\u003eGiampietro Mastromei\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLola – \u003cstrong\u003eGillian Knight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLucia – \u003cstrong\u003eHeather Begg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eFebruary 16, 1976\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eRobin Stapleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10282-1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292657107080,"sku":"10282-1","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Mascagni-Pietro_f4d7b8af-e329-43c1-a90e-cdd7233d824c.png?v=1782510121"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-nilsson-windgassen-frick-stewart-solti","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Nilsson, Windgassen, Frick, Stewart, Collier, Kraus, Jones, Hunter; Solti.  London, 1963","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eGötterdämmerung\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\u003eIn many respects, this performance of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/span\u003e can be viewed as a precursor to \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e’s later studio Ring cycle, sharing as it does three of the principal voices: \u003cstrong\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e. While it may cede some ground in terms of musical precision, the trade-off is a palpable sense of theatrical urgency—driven both by adrenaline and an audience keenly attuned to the event’s singular intensity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/strong\u003e brings imperious authority to Brünnhilde, her vocal control and dramatic insight forming the dramatic core of the evening. \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e captures Siegfried’s youthful bravado with vigor, while \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e contributes a Hagen of uncommon poise and tonal refinement, among the most distinguished on record.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe supporting cast reads like a catalogue of emergent talent: \u003cstrong\u003eMarie Collier\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a notably empathetic Gutrune, and \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/strong\u003e is persuasive in both vocal and physical stature as Gunther. \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e lends gravity to Fricka, while future luminaries \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e appear in smaller roles as Wellgunde and the Third Norn, respectively, offering early glimpses of their future promise.\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\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGutrune – \u003cstrong\u003eMarie Collier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGunther – \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHagen – \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlberich – \u003cstrong\u003eOtakar Kraus\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWoglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eBarbara Holt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWellgunde – \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFlosshilde – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e1 Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eMonica Sinclair\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2 Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eMargarete Elkins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e3 Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eOctober 14, 1963\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10286-4\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":31292656976008,"sku":"10286-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099219716,"sku":"MP3 10286-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50972773253441,"sku":"FLAC 10286-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080011641153,"sku":"FLACUP 10286-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10286-4front.jpg?v=1762672411"},{"product_id":"verdi-nabucco-tinsley-herincx-grant-balkwill","title":"Verdi: Nabucco (In English) - Herincx, Tinsley, Grant, Erwin, Balkwill.  Wales, 1967","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nNabucco – \u003cstrong\u003eRaimund Herincx\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAbigaille – \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nZaccaria – \u003cstrong\u003eClifford Grant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIsmaele – \u003cstrong\u003eKeith Erwen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFenena – \u003cstrong\u003eRhiannon Davies\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nGran Sacerdote – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Rys Edwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAnna – \u003cstrong\u003eMarion Evans\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAbdallo – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Myrddin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eWelsh National Opera\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eAugust, 1967\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eBryan Balkwill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10289-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292656877704,"sku":"10289-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Verdi-Giuseppe_de9a8025-6f24-4f5f-9d92-a7542621a0af.png?v=1782510135"},{"product_id":"verdi-macbeth-barstow-paskalis-morris-pritchard","title":"Verdi: Macbeth - Paskalis, Barstow, Erwin, Morris; Pritchard.  Glyndebourne, 1972","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nMacbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eKostas Paskalis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLady Macbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMacduff – \u003cstrong\u003eKeith Erwin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBanco – \u003cstrong\u003eJames Morris\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMalcolm – \u003cstrong\u003eIan Caley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDama di Lady Macbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eRae Woodland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nUn Medico – \u003cstrong\u003eBrian Donlan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDomestico di Macbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eIan Caddy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nUn Sicario – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Tomlinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nApparizione I – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Tomlinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nApparizione II – \u003cstrong\u003eAngela Whittingham\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nApparizione III – \u003cstrong\u003eLinda Esther Gray\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon Philharmonic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly, 1972\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Pritchard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10316-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292655829128,"sku":"10316-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Verdi-Giuseppe_bd8164b8-5d2f-4db3-96bd-d9189577668f.png?v=1782510263"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-harshaw-svanholm-hoffmann-konetzni-sutherland-shuard-kempe","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Harshaw, Svanholm, L. Hoffmann, H. Konetzni, Rothmuller, Sutherland, Shuard; Kempe.  London, 1955","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Harshaw\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSiegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eSet Svanholm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nHagen – \u003cstrong\u003eLudwig Hoffmann\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nGunther – \u003cstrong\u003eMarko Rothmuller\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nGutrune – \u003cstrong\u003eHilde Konetzni\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eMaria von Ilosvay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWoglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Sutherland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWellgunde – \u003cstrong\u003eUna Hale\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFloßhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eGlenice Halliday\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n1. Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eMaria von Ilosvay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n2. Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eConstance Shacklock\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n3. Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly 17, 1955\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eRudolf Kempe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10385-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292649472136,"sku":"10385-4","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Wagner-Richard_f946249a-1cbb-4791-b952-b5378185498c.png?v=1782510572"},{"product_id":"verdi-falstaff-glossop-vaughan-resnik-van-allen","title":"Verdi: Falstaff - Glossop, Vaughan, Robson, Resnik, Bryn-Jones, Davies, Van Allen; Ceccato. London, 1971","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nFalstaff – \u003cstrong\u003ePeter Glossop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCaius – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Dobson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBardolph – \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Bowman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nPistol – \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Van Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMeg Page – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Davies\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAlice Ford – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Vaughan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFord – \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNannetta – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Robson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFenton – \u003cstrong\u003eRyland Davies\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMistress Quickly – \u003cstrong\u003eRegina Resnik\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eRoyal Opera House, Covent Garden\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eNovember 5, 1971\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eAldo Ceccato\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10437-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292647637128,"sku":"10437-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Verdi-Giuseppe_d7b99867-39bb-43d4-97ba-1701957328b4.png?v=1782510782"},{"product_id":"janacek-katya-kabanova-amy-shuard-coates-kubelik","title":"Janacek: Katya Kabanova (In English) - Shuard, Coates, R. Jones, Studholme; Kubelik. London, 1954","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nKabanicha – \u003cstrong\u003eEdith Coates\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKatya Kabanova – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVarvara – \u003cstrong\u003eMarion Studholme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBoris – \u003cstrong\u003eRowland Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nVánya Kudrjáš – \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTichon Kabanov – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Kentish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDikoj – \u003cstrong\u003eOwen Brannigan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKuligin – \u003cstrong\u003eHarold Blackburn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nGláša – \u003cstrong\u003eSheila Rex\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFekluša – \u003cstrong\u003eJanet Leggate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJune 3, 1954\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eRafael Kubelik\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10468-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eBONUS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAct I, sc. iii from \u003ci\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ci\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/i\u003e – Act I, sc. iii: \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard and Ramón Vinay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBONUS:\u003cbr\u003e\nAct I, sc. iii from \u003ci\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nwith Amy Shuard and Ramón Vinay\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292646391944,"sku":"10468-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/janacek-leos_2a39e654-b737-438d-bb3a-fbca974d44a8.png?v=1782510924"},{"product_id":"strauss-salome-barstow-walker-belcourt-remedios-plowright","title":"Strauss: Salome (In English) - Barstow, Walker, Belcourt, Howlett, R. Remedios, Plowright; Elder. London, 1976","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nSalome – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nHerodias – \u003cstrong\u003eSarah Walker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nHerod – \u003cstrong\u003eEmile Belcourt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJochanaan – \u003cstrong\u003eNeil Howlett\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNarraboth – \u003cstrong\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nPage – \u003cstrong\u003eRosalind Plowright\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJew – \u003cstrong\u003eStuart Kale\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJew – \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Byles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJew – \u003cstrong\u003eTerry Jenkins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJew – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Winfield\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nJew – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Tomlinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNazarene – \u003cstrong\u003eClifford Grant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nNazarene – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Kitchiner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSoldier – \u003cstrong\u003eMalcolm Rivers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSoldier – \u003cstrong\u003eDenis Wicks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eEnglish National Opera\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJanuary 10, 1976\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eMark Elder\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10471-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292646293640,"sku":"10471-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Strauss-Richard_f3251032-7c5d-41e3-8541-93e3e756599a.png?v=1782510923"},{"product_id":"verdi-macbeth-amy-shuard-tito-gobbi","title":"Verdi: Macbeth - Gobbi, Shuard, Robinson, Turp; Molinari-Pradelli. London, 1960","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nMacbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eTito Gobbi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBanquo – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFleance – \u003cstrong\u003eBrian Wright\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLady Macbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nServant to Macbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eEdgar Boniface\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDuncan – \u003cstrong\u003eBeaufuys Milton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMacduff – \u003cstrong\u003eAndré Turp\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMalcolm – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Dobson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLady in Waiting – \u003cstrong\u003eNoreen Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n1st Apparition – \u003cstrong\u003eGlynne Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n2nd Apparition – \u003cstrong\u003eJean Holmes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n3rd Apparition – \u003cstrong\u003eCelia Penney\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDoctor – \u003cstrong\u003eRhydderch Davies\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eRoyal Opera House, Covent Garden\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003eApril 8, 1960\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eFrancesco Molinari-Pradelli\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10481-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292645998728,"sku":"10481-2","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Verdi-Giuseppe_4e936092-06d9-4c95-bdbe-1d6920be5523.png?v=1782510967"},{"product_id":"wagner-tristan-und-isolde-shuard-dowd-veasey-shirley-quirk-davis","title":"Wagner: Tristan und Isolde - Shuard, Dowd, Veasey, Shirley-Quirk, Langdon, Tear; Davis. London, 1969","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"title-header\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRecording Information\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nIsolde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTristan – \u003cstrong\u003eRonald Dowd\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBrangäne – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKurwenal – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Shirley-Quirk\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKönig Marke – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMelot – \u003cstrong\u003eKenneth Bowen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nHirt – \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Tear\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSteuermann – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Noble\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align:center;\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\nLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eBBC Symphony\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1969\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eSir Colin Davis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003e10484-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"Streaming","offer_id":31292645900424,"sku":"10484-4","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/Wagner-Richard_96aa2b26-ca6b-41ac-a92d-5d0de48dd76b.png?v=1782510982"},{"product_id":"compilation-amy-shuard-macbeth-walkure-gotterdammerung-tristan","title":"Compilation: Amy Shuard - Excerpts from Macbeth, Walküre, Götterdämmerung, Katya Kabanova, Tristan \u0026 more","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Retrospective\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhy did \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e have to come of age in an era of \u003cb\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/b\u003es, \u003cb\u003eLeonie Rysanek\u003c\/b\u003es and \u003cb\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/b\u003es? In a time with such an abundance of riches her talent was never fully appreciated. Viewed through a contemporary lens in which lyric sopranos sing Isoldes and Elektras it is easier to appreciate her brilliance. I am very happy to be able to share some of the great moments of this unique soprano's career. Highlights include a sleep walking scene from \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eMacbeth\u003c\/span\u003e that is a lesson in vocal control, a thrilling narration and curse from \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eTristan und Isolde\u003c\/span\u003e as well as excerpts from \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eDie Walküre, Katya Kabanova\u003c\/span\u003e and \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eGötterdämmerung.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10485-1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292645867656,"sku":"10485-1","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098625156,"sku":"MP3 10485-1","price":5.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080012525889,"sku":"FLAC 10485-1","price":6.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080012558657,"sku":"FLACUP 10485-1","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10485-1front.jpg?v=1751036899"},{"product_id":"verdi-macbeth-tinsley-burrows-balkwill","title":"Verdi: Macbeth (In English) - Tinsley, Lewis, Burrows; Balkwill.  Wales, 1966","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eMacbeth\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis recording makes a compelling case for \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e as one of the greatest Verdi sopranos of her time. Her voice is both powerful and impeccably precise—thrilling yet refined. Notably, the performance is in English with an all-English cast, creating a unique connection to Shakespeare. The singers deliver the text with the eloquence of great English orators, and unlike many opera recordings in English, the words are remarkably clear.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eMacbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eRonald Lewis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLady Macbeth – \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBanco – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Gwynne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMacduff – \u003cstrong\u003eStuart Burrows\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMalcolm – \u003cstrong\u003eMalcolm Williams\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDama – \u003cstrong\u003eNoreen Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMedico – \u003cstrong\u003eAnthony Nowell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eCardiff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1966\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eBryan Balkwill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10514-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292644917384,"sku":"10514-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099127108,"sku":"MP3 10514-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50128266297665,"sku":"FLAC 10514-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080013345089,"sku":"FLACUP 10514-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10514-2front.jpg?v=1751036867"},{"product_id":"verdi-la-forza-del-destino-tinsley-smith-garrard-hammond-stroud-balkwill","title":"Verdi: La Forza del destino (In English) - Tinsley, Smith, Bickerstaff, Garrard, Hammond-Stroud; Balkwill. London, 1968","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eLa Forza del destino\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn this performance of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eLa Forza del destino\u003c\/span\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e reaffirms her remarkable versatility as a singer. Her voice is astonishing, combining exceptional clarity with impressive size, and she possessed as fine a top as any dramatic soprano could hope for—both thrilling and secure. She is joined by \u003cstrong\u003eDonald Smith\u003c\/strong\u003e as Don Alvaro, whose voice blends the steel of a great spinto tenor with the elegance of an English tenor, creating a striking balance.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLeonora – \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDon Alvaro – \u003cstrong\u003eDonald Smith\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDon Carlo – \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Bickerstaff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePadre Guardiano – \u003cstrong\u003eDon Garrard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFra Melitone – \u003cstrong\u003eDerek Hammond-Stroud\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePreziosilla – \u003cstrong\u003eJoyce Blackham\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMarchese di Calatrava – \u003cstrong\u003eEric Stannard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTrabucco – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Fryatt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eSadler's Wells, London\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eDecember, 1968\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eBryan Balkwill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10518-3\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\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292644819080,"sku":"10518-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099114372,"sku":"MP3 10518-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080013443393,"sku":"FLAC 10518-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080013476161,"sku":"FLACUP 10518-3","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10518-3front.jpg?v=1751036864"},{"product_id":"berlioz-les-troyens-thebom-shuard-vickers-kubelik","title":"Berlioz: Les Troyens (In English) - Shuard, Thebom, Vickers, Robinson, Rouleau, Carlyle, Collier; Kubelik. London, 1957","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eLes Troyens\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHector Berlioz (1803–1869)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLong before \u003cstrong\u003eSir Colin Davis\u003c\/strong\u003e made his mark on \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eLes Troyens\u003c\/span\u003e, British musicians were already grappling with the grandeur of Berlioz’s monumental score. Here, \u003cstrong\u003eRafael Kubelík\u003c\/strong\u003e takes the helm, seamlessly balancing the music’s raw, almost primal energy with the refinement and delicacy that define French style. Upon hearing Enée’s opening lines, it’s almost difficult to recognize \u003cstrong\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e—he sings with a lyricism that eluded him in later years, free from many of his characteristic mannerisms. \u003cstrong\u003eBlanche Thebom\u003c\/strong\u003e is a regal Dido, while \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a youthful intensity to Cassandra. This English-language performance features a distinguished cast, including \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle, Marie Collier, Joseph Rouleau\u003c\/strong\u003e, and others.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eA Trojan Soldier – \u003cstrong\u003eRonald Lewis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCassandra – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChoroebus – \u003cstrong\u003eJess Walters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePriam – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHelenus – \u003cstrong\u003eRaymond Nilsson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHecuba – \u003cstrong\u003eNoreen Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePolyxena – \u003cstrong\u003eMarie Collier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAscanius – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAndromache – \u003cstrong\u003eWish Mary Hunt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAstyanax – \u003cstrong\u003eArthur Mackenzie\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePanthus – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAeneas – \u003cstrong\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGhost of Hector – \u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Rouleau\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Greek Captain – \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Allman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDido – \u003cstrong\u003eBlanche Thebom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnna – \u003cstrong\u003eLauris Elms\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNarbal – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Kelly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIopas – \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Verreau\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe God Mercury – \u003cstrong\u003eAlan Beale\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHylas – \u003cstrong\u003eDermot Troy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst Soldier – \u003cstrong\u003eRonald Lewis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSecond Soldier – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJune 20, 1957\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eRafael Kubelík\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10544-4\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\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292643704968,"sku":"10544-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098608708,"sku":"MP3 10544-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50055234060609,"sku":"FLAC 10544-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080014721345,"sku":"FLACUP 10544-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10544-4front.jpg?v=1751036833"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-hunter-bailey-june-remedios-grant-howard-goodall","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre (In English) - Hunter, June, Bailey, Remedios, Howard, Grant; Goodall.  ENO, 1970","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eThe Valkyrie\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReginald Goodall’s\u003c\/strong\u003e legendary English \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing\u003c\/span\u003e as well as admirers of Wagner, English-speaking or not. The cast, full of youthful energy, seems to relish the opportunity to perform Wagner in their native language.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs Brünnhilde,\u003cstrong\u003e Rita Hunter’s\u003c\/strong\u003e top notes gleam, and she maintains the purity of her tone without ever compromising for volume—not that she needs to. Her voice is enormous and effortlessly powerful. \u003cstrong\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a youthful ardor and an attractive tone to Siegmund. His achievement in this role is particularly impressive, considering he would perform as Siegfried just a few nights later.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e is more avuncular than regal as Wotan, but his impeccable diction and heartfelt delivery make the final scene particularly moving. \u003cstrong\u003eAva June\u003c\/strong\u003e is a notable addition to the cast, as she was not featured in the EMI recording. I find her performance preferable to \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Curphey’s\u003c\/strong\u003e; her voice is slender yet steely at the top and pairs wonderfully with Remedios.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGoodall’s conducting, though unhurried, enhances the drama's momentum, allowing the music and text to breathe.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSiegmund – \u003cstrong\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSieglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eAva June\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWotan – \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHunding – \u003cstrong\u003eClifford Grant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFricka – \u003cstrong\u003eAnn Howard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegrune – \u003cstrong\u003eAnn Robson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGerhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Curphey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSchwertleite – \u003cstrong\u003eKatherine Pring\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003ePatricia Purcell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrtlinde – \u003cstrong\u003eDonna Faye Carr\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHelmwige – \u003cstrong\u003eJanice Chapman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrimgerde – \u003cstrong\u003eAnna Cooper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRossweisse – \u003cstrong\u003eGillian Knight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon Coliseum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eFebruary 14, 1970\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eReginald Goodall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10563-4\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\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292643115144,"sku":"10563-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099202820,"sku":"MP3 10563-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080015671617,"sku":"FLAC 10563-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080015704385,"sku":"FLACUP 10563-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10563-4front.jpg?v=1751036811"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-hunter-remedios-bailey-grant-goodall","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung (In English) - Hunter, Remedios, Grant, Bailey, Hammond-Stroud; Goodall.  ENO, 1971","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eThe Twilight of the Gods\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/span\u003e is perhaps the most symphonic of all the operas in the \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing\u003c\/span\u003e cycle. It features the most extensive orchestral sections, and with this opera, Wagner elevates the orchestra's role as a \"Greek chorus\" to unprecedented heights. \u003cstrong\u003eReginald Goodall's\u003c\/strong\u003e deliberate tempi underscore the orchestral mastery of the score, allowing the listener to luxuriate in the contours of a melismatic passage or the grandeur of the brass section. However, this pacing sometimes comes at the expense of dramatic intensity, particularly in the second act. Fortunately, Goodall had at his disposal singers with both the technique to sustain long phrases and the musical commitment to fully engage with the line of the music, no matter how long.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFor me, the standout of this performance is \u003cstrong\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e as Siegfried. His voice strikes the perfect balance between lyricism and heft, and he sings with remarkable intelligence, resisting the temptation to force his voice over the orchestra. \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e is simply a force of nature as Brünnhilde. Her performance unmistakably reveals the connection between Wagner and Bellini, as she masterfully spins Wagner’s expansive vocal lines, made even longer by Goodall’s pacing.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs Hagen, \u003cstrong\u003eClifford Grant\u003c\/strong\u003e replaces \u003cstrong\u003eAage Haugland\u003c\/strong\u003e. While his voice may lack the striking quality of Haugland’s, he compensates with impeccable diction and a well-rounded characterization, avoiding the clichéd portrayals often associated with the role. A significant difference from the studio recording is the presence of \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e as Gunther, a true luxury in this live performance.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe highlight of Goodall's interpretation can truly be appreciated in the finale of the Immolation Scene. His unique approach to this climactic moment is nothing short of extraordinary.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHagen – \u003cstrong\u003eClifford Grant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGunther – \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlberich – \u003cstrong\u003eDerek Hammond-Stroud\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGutrune – \u003cstrong\u003eCatherine Wilson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eKatherine Pring\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWoglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eBarbara Walker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWellgunde – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Evans\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFloßhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eGeorgetta Psaros\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eGillian Knight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSecond Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThird Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eJanice Chapman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon Coliseum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eMarch 6, 1971\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eReginald Goodall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10564-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292643082376,"sku":"10564-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099215812,"sku":"MP3 10564-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080015737153,"sku":"FLAC 10564-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080015769921,"sku":"FLACUP 10564-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10564-4front.jpg?v=1751036810"},{"product_id":"mozart-die-zauberflote-price-burrows-bryn-jones-ward-deutekom-robinson","title":"Mozart: Die Zauberflöte - M. Price, Burrows, Deutekom, Bryn-Jones, Ward, Robinson; Wisch.  London, 1968","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eThe Magic Flute\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere is a certain cynicism that can develop toward \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eThe Magic Flute\u003c\/span\u003e, perhaps due to the frequent, half-hearted revivals staged primarily to fill seats and boost opera company revenues. That is precisely why performances like this—ones that remind us of Mozart’s genius and the opera’s enduring magic—are so vital.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis recording presents an excellent English translation (albeit one that does not gloss over the opera’s problematic elements.) The young \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Price\u003c\/strong\u003e is radiant as Pamina, her voice opulent and effortless. \u003cstrong\u003eStuart Burrows\u003c\/strong\u003e brings dignity and elegance to Tamino. \u003cstrong\u003eCristina Deutekom’s\u003c\/strong\u003e Queen of the Night is simply awe-inspiring—imagine the power of an \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eElektra-\u003c\/span\u003esized voice with astonishing coloratura and a thrilling high F.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers Sarastro’s lines with mellifluous warmth and commanding gravitas. However, the true standout of this glittering cast may be \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e. His magnificent voice, capable of rivaling the greatest baritones of any era, is well known to those familiar with his work. What is surprising, however, is his impeccable comedic timing—his delivery in the trial scene, quipping, \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003e\"Do you know all these tests could put a man off birds for life!\"\u003c\/span\u003e (a witty pun on the slang for women), feels right out of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eFawlty Towers\u003c\/span\u003e or \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eMonty Python\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWith an excellent cast, superb sound quality, and a performance that proves opera in English can be both thrilling and relevant, this recording has the power to convert even the staunchest purist.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eTamino – \u003cstrong\u003eStuart Burrows\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePapageno – \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Queen of Night – \u003cstrong\u003eCristina Deutekom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePamina – \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Price\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSarastro – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst Lady – \u003cstrong\u003eAva June\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSecond Lady – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Howells\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThird Lady – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Bainbridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMonostatos – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Dobson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst Boy – \u003cstrong\u003eSimon Woolf\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSecond Boy – \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Morgan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThird Boy – \u003cstrong\u003eGiovanni Ferrari\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst Priest – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSecond Priest – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Lanigan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePapagena – \u003cstrong\u003eJenifer Eddy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst Man in Armor – \u003cstrong\u003eEdgar Evans\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSecond Man in Armor – \u003cstrong\u003eDennis Wicks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1968\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eGünther Wisch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10571-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292642885768,"sku":"10571-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098728836,"sku":"MP3 10571-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080016032065,"sku":"FLAC 10571-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080016064833,"sku":"FLACUP 10571-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10571-2front.jpg?v=1751036797"},{"product_id":"verdi-il-trovatore-pauline-tinsley-irene-dalis-borso","title":"Verdi: Il Trovatore - Tinsley, Dalis, Borso, Ruzdak, Schultz.  Hamburg, 1970","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eIl Trovatore\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere are clues in this recording that suggest \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eIl Trovatore\u003c\/span\u003e may not have been the highest priority that year at the Hamburg State Opera. For one, the chorus sings in German, and there are moments where the ensemble begins to slightly unravel. However, the soloists seem to embrace this fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants approach to opera production, delivering inspired performances with an air of improvisation.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe standout is \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e as Leonora. She is truly one of the great Verdi sopranos of all time. Her voice is full and lush while maintaining purity of tone. She never pushes and navigates the coloratura passages with aplomb.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIrene Dalis\u003c\/strong\u003e is equally stunning as Azucena. Her voice has even more richness than in her early years, but she focuses more on highlighting the character than showcasing her prodigious vocal abilities. She does not shy away from using her chest voice to thrilling effect.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe men are not quite as strong as the women. As Manrico, \u003cstrong\u003eUmberto Borso\u003c\/strong\u003e has a nicely burnished tone and a sizeable instrument, but he lacks finesse and style.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLeonora – \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eManrico – \u003cstrong\u003eUmberto Borso\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAzucena – \u003cstrong\u003eIrene Dalis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConte di Luna – \u003cstrong\u003eVladimir Ruzdak\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFerrando – \u003cstrong\u003eCarl Schultz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRuiz – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Otto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInez – \u003cstrong\u003ePaula Page\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eHamburg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eMarch 24, 1970\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10585-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292642459784,"sku":"10585-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099109700,"sku":"MP3 10585-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50091096539457,"sku":"FLAC 10585-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080016654657,"sku":"FLACUP 10585-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10585-2front.jpg?v=1751036781"},{"product_id":"puccini-turandot-shuard-smith-collier-downes","title":"Puccini: Turandot (excerpts) - Shuard, Smith, Collier; Downes.  London, 1965.","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eTurandot\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiacomo Puccini (1858–1924)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExcerpts from Act II \u0026amp; Act III\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite its flaws, this recording is worth it for the \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eTurandot\u003c\/span\u003e of \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e alone. Hearing Shuard sing “In questa reggia” might even prompt the question, “Birgit who?” Not to suggest one singer is superior to the other, but Shuard brings a more voluptuous sound, with high notes that seem to erupt from her, making the icy princess both glamorous and truly terrifying. Many tenors might shy away from such a formidable presence, but \u003cstrong\u003eDonald Smith’s\u003c\/strong\u003e stentorian tone holds its own. He also delivers one of the most lyrical “Nessun dorma”s I have ever heard. 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London, 1967","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt’s remarkable how much great Wagner was emerging from London in the 1960s. Perhaps it was the influence of \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e, or simply an influx of fresh talent, but whatever the reason, audiences were treated to outstanding performances year after year — and this performance is no exception.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe cast features a roster of singers woefully underrepresented on recording. \u003cstrong\u003eLudmila Dvořáková\u003c\/strong\u003e is exceptional in the title role. It’s almost baffling how a singer with such a contralto-like vocal color could manage such reliability in the upper register. \u003cstrong\u003eIngrid Bjoner\u003c\/strong\u003e offers a radiant and winsome Sieglinde, beautifully paired with the Siegmund of \u003cstrong\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/strong\u003e. Both singers possessed lyrical instruments with a kind of built-in vocal overdrive, making Wagner’s frequent outbursts thrilling without sacrificing the essential lyricism woven into his writing.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHerbert Fliether\u003c\/strong\u003e proves himself a Wotan of real substance. While it’s hard to gauge the size of his voice from this recording, the essential vocal qualities of a great Wotan are unmistakably present. He sings with full-bodied tone throughout the evening, never resorting to pushing, even in Wotan’s notoriously punishing final lines — a moment that has defeated more than a few baritones.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eLudmila Dvořáková\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWotan – \u003cstrong\u003eHerbert Fliether\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegmund – \u003cstrong\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSieglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eIngrid Bjoner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFricka – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHunding – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGerhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAva June\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrtlinde – \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Kingsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eYvonne Minton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSchwertleite – \u003cstrong\u003eMonica Sinclair\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHelmwige – \u003cstrong\u003eVivien Townley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegrune – \u003cstrong\u003eNoreen Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrimgerde – \u003cstrong\u003ePatricia Purcell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRoßweiße – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Bainbridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eOctober 3, 1967\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Downes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10599-3\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 \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292641509512,"sku":"10599-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099201988,"sku":"MP3 10599-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50262641017153,"sku":"FLAC 10599-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080017441089,"sku":"FLACUP 10599-3","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10599-3front.jpg?v=1751036762"},{"product_id":"verdi-don-carlo-hunter-swift-guy-howell","title":"Verdi: Don Carlo (In English) - Hunter, Swift, Guy, Howell, Van Allen, Du Plessis; Lloyd-Jones.  ENO, 1974","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDon Carlo\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis recording is fascinating, not only because it features the legendary \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e as Elisabetta (more on her in a moment), but also for its unique presentation of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eDon Carlo\u003c\/span\u003e in English, with the inclusion of several numbers that were cut when Verdi adapted the opera into Italian. Among the restored excerpts are the complete Fontainebleau scene, the cloak exchange between Elisabetta and Eboli, and the funeral music following Posa’s death, which incorporates music later used in Verdi’s \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRequiem\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhile these additions do make the opera even longer, they add significant layers to the characters and narrative. For instance, the cloak exchange between Eboli and Elisabetta clarifies why Carlo mistakes Eboli for Elisabetta shortly afterward, resolving what can otherwise feel like an awkward dramatic moment. Similarly, the music following Posa’s death is crucial, as it portrays Filippo and Carlo mourning their mutual friend—a rare moment of shared humanity between the two. The alternate ending, which resembles the French version without the priests' chorus, is another intriguing feature.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIf these elements aren’t enough to spark interest, the cast is a lineup of some of the greatest English singers of their era. \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a stunning performance as Elisabetta, her voice luxuriating in Verdi’s sweeping legato lines while cutting through with striking intensity in her spinto moments. \u003cstrong\u003eTom Swift\u003c\/strong\u003e is an excellent Don Carlo, singing with intelligence and sincerity as he navigates the role within the limits of his lyric instrument. \u003cstrong\u003eGwynne Howell\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a slightly woolly tone to King Philip but rises to great dramatic heights in his confrontation with the Grand Inquisitor, portrayed commandingly by \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Van Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a fiery and wild Eboli.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eNow for the bad news: the muffled sound quality often makes it challenging for the English text to come through clearly.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eElisabetta – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDon Carlo – \u003cstrong\u003eTom Swift\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKing Philip – \u003cstrong\u003eGwynne Howell\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRodrigo – \u003cstrong\u003eChristian Du Plessis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEboli – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Grand Inquisitor – \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Van Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Monk – \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Mason\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTebaldo – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Conoley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCount Lerma – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Kitchener\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHerald – \u003cstrong\u003eKenneth Wollam\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHeavenly Voice – \u003cstrong\u003eAva June\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon Coliseum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eSeptember 21, 1974\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Lloyd-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10604-3\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\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292641280136,"sku":"10604-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099094276,"sku":"MP3 10604-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080017736001,"sku":"FLAC 10604-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080017768769,"sku":"FLACUP 10604-3","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10604-3front.jpg?v=1751036756"},{"product_id":"verdi-simon-boccanegra-barstow-bryn-jones","title":"Verdi: Simon Boccanegra (In English) - Delme-Jones, Barstow, Erwin, Robinson, Allen; Lockhart.  Wales, 1970","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eSimon Boccanegra\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis recording, presented in near-perfect sound, makes a compelling case for the value of opera in English. All the leads perform with exceptional diction, offering English-speaking listeners the immediacy and emotional impact of Verdi's music in their native language. While translations of operas can sometimes risk distorting the composer's intent, this performance avoids that danger. The singers not only deliver clear diction but also demonstrate a profound understanding of Verdi's Italian style and sentiment, ensuring that the composer's voice remains intact despite the change in language.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the title role is the criminally underrepresented \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e, a true Verdi baritone with the sensitivity and nuance often associated with the finest British singers. \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e takes on the role of Maria\/Amelia, and while her vocal production may be \"unique,\" she proves her mastery by spinning Verdi's legato lines with exquisite finesse. As Gabriele, \u003cstrong\u003eKeith Erwin\u003c\/strong\u003e, though occasionally lacking in Italianate style and at times sounding as if he detoured from D'Oyly Carte, possesses a voice that is pleasant and engaging.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a commanding performance as Fiesco, while a young \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e impresses as Paolo.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSimon Boccanegra – \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMaria\/Amelia – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJacopo Fiesco – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGabriele Adorno – \u003cstrong\u003eKeith Erwin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePaolo Albiani – \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePietro – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Gwynne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUn Ancella – \u003cstrong\u003eMolly Pope\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUn Capitano – \u003cstrong\u003eTerence Walters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eCardiff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eOctober 17, 1970\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eJames Lockhart\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10606-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292640788616,"sku":"10606-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099147524,"sku":"MP3 10606-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080018555201,"sku":"FLAC 10606-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080018587969,"sku":"FLACUP 10606-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10606-2front.jpg?v=1751036741"},{"product_id":"verdi-il-trovatore-hunter-sydney-bailey-mackerras","title":"Verdi: Il Trovatore (In English) - Hunter, Sydney, Bailey, Lavigne, Gwynn; Mackerras.  ENO, 1972","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eIl Trovatore\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis recording of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eIl Trovatore\u003c\/span\u003e stands as yet another testament to what may now be regarded as the golden years of the English National Opera. In the 1970s, the ENO was deeply committed to fostering homegrown talent, an effort that produced remarkable artists such as \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHunter is simply spectacular as Leonora. Her \"\u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eTacea la notte\u003c\/span\u003e\" is delivered with remarkable finesse—an even greater achievement considering she was already tackling Brünnhilde at the time. Bailey, who was also exploring Wagnerian territory, still manages to deliver a beautifully shaped \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eIl balen\u003c\/span\u003e, followed by a tireless cabaletta.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThough less widely known, \u003cstrong\u003eJon Sydney\u003c\/strong\u003e as Manrico and \u003cstrong\u003eGabrielle Lavigne\u003c\/strong\u003e as Azucena hold their own alongside these operatic titans. \u003cstrong\u003eSir Charles Mackerras\u003c\/strong\u003e conducts a spirited and authentically Italianate performance. Notable features of this recording include the complete cabaletta after \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eTacea la notte\u003c\/span\u003e and an alternate beginning to Act III, including a rarely heard ballet.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eManrico – \u003cstrong\u003eJon Sydney\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLeonora – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConte di Luna – \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAzucena – \u003cstrong\u003eGabrielle Lavigne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFerrando – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Gwynn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInez – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRuiz – \u003cstrong\u003eRaymond Scally\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eAugust, 1972\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eSir Charles Mackerras\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10609-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292640624776,"sku":"10609-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099104260,"sku":"MP3 10609-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":50079145394497,"sku":"FLAC 10609-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080018686273,"sku":"FLACUP 10609-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10609-2front.jpg?v=1751036737"},{"product_id":"verdi-la-traviata-josephine-barstow-brecknock","title":"Verdi: La Traviata (In English) - Barstow, Brecknock, Howlett, Walker; Wilks. London, 1974","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eLa Traviata\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eI was quite surprised to come across a recording of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eLa Traviata\u003c\/span\u003e featuring \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e. The darker color and weightier quality of her voice are not characteristics typically associated with Violetta, yet she conveys the role's pathos with extraordinary depth while navigating \"Sempre libera\" with impressive skill. The English National Opera wisely cast the supporting roles with larger voices to complement Barstow's distinctive timbre.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Brecknock\u003c\/strong\u003e, though not possessing an overtly Italianate sound, successfully alternates between sweet lyricism and dramatic intensity over the course of the performance. \u003cstrong\u003eNeil Howlett\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a strong and convincing Germont, while \u003cstrong\u003eSarah Walker\u003c\/strong\u003e brings charm and vibrancy to the often-overlooked role of Flora.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ebut slightly distant. The English text is not always clear, particularly from Barstow.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eVioletta Valery – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFlora Bervoix – \u003cstrong\u003eSarah Walker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnnina – \u003cstrong\u003eShelagh Squires\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlfredo Germont – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Brecknock\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGiorgio Germont – \u003cstrong\u003eNeil Howlett\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGastone – \u003cstrong\u003eTerry Jenkins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBaron Douphol – \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Welsby\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMarquis d'Obigny – \u003cstrong\u003eDennis Dowling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDoctor Grenvil – \u003cstrong\u003eHarry Coghill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eAugust 22, 1974\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Wilks\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10637-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292639608968,"sku":"10637-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099115460,"sku":"MP3 10637-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080020193601,"sku":"FLAC 10637-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080020226369,"sku":"FLACUP 10637-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/products\/10637-2front.jpeg?v=1751036700"},{"product_id":"puccini-tosca-barstow-chard-collins-tomlinson-elder","title":"Puccini: Tosca (In English) - Barstow, Collins, Chard, Tomlinson; Elder.  London, 1976","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eTosca\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiacomo Puccini (1858–1924)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite her distinctly \"unitaliante\" tone, \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e excelled in the great Italian \"diva\" roles. (Even \u003cstrong\u003eHerbert von Karajan\u003c\/strong\u003e recognized her talent, casting her as Amelia in \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eUn Ballo in Maschera\u003c\/span\u003e.) She overcame the non-Italianate quality of her voice with impeccable technique, remarkable acting ability, and the spinto power she could summon when required. All these strengths are on full display in this performance of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eTosca\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKenneth Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e delivers a commanding and robust Cavaradossi, while \u003cstrong\u003eGeoffrey Chard\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a strong and menacing Scarpia. A young \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Tomlinson\u003c\/strong\u003e makes an early impression as Angelotti, showcasing the potential that would later define his career.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e, with the English libretto coming through clearly, thanks in part to the singers' exceptional diction and the immediacy of their performances.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eTosca – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCavaradossi – \u003cstrong\u003eKenneth Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eScarpia – \u003cstrong\u003eGeoffrey Chard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAngelotti – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Tomlinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpoletta – \u003cstrong\u003eTerry Jenkins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSacristan – \u003cstrong\u003eHarold Blackburn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSciarrone – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Kitchiner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGaoler – \u003cstrong\u003eHarry Coghill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eAugust 9, 1976\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eMark Elder\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10640-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eBONUS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eJosephine Barstow sings the Final Scene from \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eSalome\u003c\/span\u003e. E.N.O., 1976\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292639510664,"sku":"10640-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098774532,"sku":"MP3 10640-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080020521281,"sku":"FLAC 10640-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080020554049,"sku":"FLACUP 10640-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10640-2front.jpg?v=1751036696"},{"product_id":"opera-in-english-price-jones-te-kanawa-collier-varnay-barstow-baker-thebom-domingo-vickers","title":"Compilation: The Best of Opera in English - Featuring M. Price, Jones, Vickers and many more!","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eOpera in English\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eI’m convinced that if Wagner were to attend a performance of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eThe Ring\u003c\/span\u003e at the Metropolitan Opera, his first question would be, “Why are you performing this in German and not English?” After all, when Wagner was coming of age Germany, he likely never heard \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eLe Nozze di Figaro\u003c\/span\u003e or \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eNorma\u003c\/span\u003e performed in their original languages. While I’m not advocating for opera to be exclusively performed in the vernacular, hearing a work like \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eLa Bohème\u003c\/span\u003e sung in your native tongue can be a revelation. Personally, I find it creates a closer connection to the drama, even with a libretto I know intimately.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis compilation celebrates that experience with excerpts spanning a variety of styles—from Purcell to Shostakovich—and features an incredible lineup of singers, including \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Price\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eKiri Te Kanawa\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eMarie Collier\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eJanet Baker\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eBlanche Thebom\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eCharles Craig\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003ePlácido Domingo\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003ePeter Glossop\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e, all performing in English!\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Price\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eKiri Te Kanawa\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eMarie Collier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Barstow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eJanet Baker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eBlanche Thebom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eCharles Craig\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePlácido Domingo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePeter Glossop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10641-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292639412360,"sku":"10641-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098747588,"sku":"MP3 10641-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080020455745,"sku":"FLAC 10641-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080020488513,"sku":"FLACUP 10641-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10641-2front.jpg?v=1751036695"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-remedios-hunter-garrard-hammond-stroud-goodall","title":"Wagner: Siegfried (In English) - Remedios, Hunter, Garrard, Dempsey, Hammond-Stroud, Grant, Masterson; Goodall. London, 1973","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e may not be the most stentorian Siegfried, but I confidently assert that his performance is one the most beautifully sung Siegfried I have ever heard. He emphasizes the lyrical nature of the role, often overshadowed by its dramatic demands.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOne of the most notable differences from the commercial set is the Wanderer, portrayed here by \u003cstrong\u003eDon Garrard\u003c\/strong\u003e. His voice possesses an elegance that \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey's\u003c\/strong\u003e lacked, though to be fair, Garrard's interpretation feels slightly more restrained compared to Bailey's dynamic presence.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Siegfried Brünnhilde, though shorter than her counterparts in other \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing\u003c\/span\u003e operas, remains a formidable challenge for any soprano. \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e rises to the occasion effortlessly, delivering precise high notes, opulent tone, and radiant beauty, making this demanding role appear deceptively easy.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGregory Dempsey's\u003c\/strong\u003e Mime exemplifies everything remarkable about a great English tenor and character artist. His nuanced attention to the text is so extraordinary that at times, it evokes the feeling of a Vaughan Williams art song. He balances sympathy and revulsion in his portrayal with impressive finesse. Similarly, \u003cstrong\u003eDerek Hammond-Stroud\u003c\/strong\u003e as Alberich paints the character with broader strokes, delivering a performance rich in intensity and depth.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA special mention must go to the woodbird, sung by the incomparable \u003cstrong\u003eValerie Masterson\u003c\/strong\u003e, a delightful addition and a significant improvement over the EMI recording.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs exceptional as the individual performances are, the overall production surpasses the sum of its parts. This is due in no small part to the chemistry among the performers, many of whom had long-standing relationships—\u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e, for example, were schoolmates—and the masterful direction of \u003cstrong\u003eReginald Goodall\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWagner's music, when performed at the deliberate tempos chosen here, can feel lethargic in less capable hands. However, Goodall manages to slow time while maintaining forward momentum. His approach allows the singers to luxuriate in their vocal lines and reveals the intricate beauty of Wagner's harmonies and orchestration.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e, ensuring every word of the English text is clearly audible. The only minor flaw is the occasional scratchiness at the beginning of Act I, likely a result of the transfer from LP. For those who remember well-loved records, this is a nostalgic quirk. The remainder of the performance is free of such imperfections.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis production is a treasure, offering a deeply satisfying blend of vocal mastery, ensemble chemistry, and inspired conducting. It is a must-have for Wagner enthusiasts and lovers of English opera alike.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSiegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMime – \u003cstrong\u003eGregory Dempsey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Wanderer – \u003cstrong\u003eDon Garrard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlberich – \u003cstrong\u003eDerek Hammond-Stroud\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFafner – \u003cstrong\u003eClifford Grant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eErda – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eRita Hunter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWoodbird – \u003cstrong\u003eValerie Masterson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eMarch 3, 1973\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eReginald Goodall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10645-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292639051912,"sku":"10645-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099250948,"sku":"MP3 10645-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080020783425,"sku":"FLAC 10645-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080020816193,"sku":"FLACUP 10645-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10645-4front.jpg?v=1751036691"},{"product_id":"strauss-elektra-shuard-collier-modl-downes","title":"Strauss: Elektra (extended excerpts) - Shuard, Collier, Mödl, Shaw, Lanigan; Downes.  London, 1966","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eElektra\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Strauss (1864–1949)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eI labeled this recording of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eElektra\u003c\/span\u003e as \"Extended Excerpts\" due to the omission of the \"Maids Scene\" and the presence of a few drop-outs. Additionally, the sound quality includes a noticeable hiss, and the micing is slightly distant. With the bad news out of the way, lovers of this opera will still find much to appreciate thanks to the stellar cast.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e brings a rare beauty of tone to the daunting title role, a welcome novelty in a part typically dominated by sheer power. That said, she does not shy away from Elektra's demands for intensity, delivering a performance that balances vocal richness with dramatic force, occasional wayward high Cs notwithstanding.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe opera world is already familiar with the Chrysothemis of \u003cstrong\u003eMarie Collier\u003c\/strong\u003e, notably from Solti's iconic recording with \u003cstrong\u003eBirgit Nilsson\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eRegina Resnik\u003c\/strong\u003e (fun fact: Collier was a last-minute replacement for \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e). In this live performance, the size and cutting brilliance of her voice are even more apparent than in the studio recording. At times, she even seems to overpower Shuard in sheer volume. Collier also brings an added energy to this live setting, likely due to the immediacy of the performance—and perhaps in contrast to Solti's meticulous recording process, which often diluted spontaneity.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/strong\u003e portrays Klytämnestra, and though her glory days were well behind her by 1966, she gives a chilling and deeply compelling performance. Her vocal frailties lend the character a surprising touch of vulnerability, making her portrayal both unsettling and sympathetic.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConductor \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Downes\u003c\/strong\u003e leads an excellent performance, though he occasionally opts for slower tempi. Despite the imperfections, this recording is a fascinating document of a remarkable cast in a live setting.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eElektra – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChrysothemis – \u003cstrong\u003eMarie Collier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKlytämnestra – \u003cstrong\u003eMartha Mödl\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrest – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Shaw\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAegisth – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Lanigan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDie Vertraute – \u003cstrong\u003ePhyllis Simons\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDie Schleppträgerin – \u003cstrong\u003eLeah Roberts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eApril 1, 1966\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Downes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10643-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eBONUS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eAmy Shuard, Marie Collier and Martha Mödl sing arias and scenes\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292638822536,"sku":"10643-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099057284,"sku":"MP3 10643-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080021045569,"sku":"FLAC 10643-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080021078337,"sku":"FLACUP 10643-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10643-2front.jpg?v=1751036683"},{"product_id":"verdi-macbeth-taddei-shuard-prevedi-wildermann-previtali","title":"Verdi: Macbeth - Taddei, Shuard, Wildermann, Prevedi; Previtali.  Buenos Aires, 1964","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eMacbeth\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Taddei\u003c\/strong\u003e is at his absolute peak in the title role, delivering a masterful performance. He is joined by British soprano \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e, who transitions seamlessly between bloodthirsty, grotesque, and ultimately tragic, all while navigating the demanding vocal score with remarkable precision. (She omits the high D-flat at the end of the sleepwalking scene, but this is more than compensated by the opulence of tone she brings to the role.) \u003cstrong\u003eBruno Prevedi\u003c\/strong\u003e also makes a strong impression in the smaller role of Macduff.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eMacbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Taddei\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLady Macbeth – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBanco – \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Wildermann\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMacduff – \u003cstrong\u003eBruno Prevedi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMalcolm – \u003cstrong\u003eEnzo Betti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDama – \u003cstrong\u003eCarmen Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMedico – \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Maddalena\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDomestico – \u003cstrong\u003eGuerrino Boschetti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSicario – \u003cstrong\u003eHéctor Barbieri\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eBuenos Aires\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly 31, 1964\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eFernando Previtali\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10656-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292638658696,"sku":"10656-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099126660,"sku":"MP3 10656-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080021307713,"sku":"FLAC 10656-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080021340481,"sku":"FLACUP 10656-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10656-2front.jpg?v=1751036679"},{"product_id":"puccini-turandot-pauline-tinsley-william-johns","title":"Puccini: Turandot - Tinsley, Johns, Fuller, Mayle; Armstrong.  Cardiff, 1972","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eTurandot\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiacomo Puccini (1858–1924)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis performance caught my attention because it features the British soprano \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e as Turandot, and she does not disappoint. Her voice is both powerful and tireless in the upper register, combining a purity of tone that captures the Chinese princess's dual nature—both virginal and savage.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eHer Calàf is the fine tenor \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Johns\u003c\/strong\u003e, who showcases his sweet yet robust voice in all its glory. While Johns would later shift to the heldentenor repertoire, to the detriment of his instrument, here he is in prime form.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe rest of the performance is somewhat uneven, with a notably rocky start when the Mandarin enters a measure too early, leading the chorus into chaos. But moments like this are part of the unpredictable charm of live theater.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eTurandot – \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCalàf – \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Johns\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLiù – \u003cstrong\u003eYvonne Fuller\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTimur – \u003cstrong\u003eGiancarlo Fuller\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAltoum – \u003cstrong\u003eIeuan Davies\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePing – \u003cstrong\u003eJulian Moyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePang – \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePong – \u003cstrong\u003eNeville Peterman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMandarino – \u003cstrong\u003eGlyn Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eCardiff\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eMay 5, 1972\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Armstrong\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10684-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292637708424,"sku":"10684-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098786372,"sku":"MP3 10684-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080023044417,"sku":"FLAC 10684-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080023077185,"sku":"FLACUP 10684-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10684-2front.jpg?v=1751036647"},{"product_id":"handel-agrippina-tinsley-young-sinclair-dean-herincx-mackerras","title":"Handel: Agrippina - Tinsley, Young, Sinclair, Dean, Herincx; Mackerras.  French Radio, 1966","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eAgrippina\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGeorge Frideric Handel (1685–1759)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis performance is full of surprises. Given that it hails from the mid-1960s and features the renowned dramatic soprano \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e in the title role, one might expect a lush, romantic interpretation of the opera. However, \u003cstrong\u003eSir Charles Mackerras\u003c\/strong\u003e, well ahead of the period performance movement, demonstrates a remarkable sensitivity to Handel's music. He balances its delicacy and power while respecting the stylistic nuances of the Baroque era.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e shines in the title role, proving that her voice had far more to offer than sheer power. She brings depth and refinement to her performance, capturing the intricacies of the character. The rest of the cast is equally strong, delivering a compelling performance that underscores the enduring merits of Handel's operas.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eAgrippina – \u003cstrong\u003ePauline Tinsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNerone – \u003cstrong\u003eAlexander Young\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePoppea – \u003cstrong\u003eApril Cantelo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eClaudio – \u003cstrong\u003eStafford Dean\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOttone – \u003cstrong\u003eMonica Sinclair\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePallante – \u003cstrong\u003eRaimund Herincx\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNarciso – \u003cstrong\u003ePatricia Kern\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLesbo – \u003cstrong\u003eRaymond Hayter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eBruxelles\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1966\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eSir Charles Mackerras\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10690-3\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 \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292637511816,"sku":"10690-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098696836,"sku":"MP3 10690-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080023437633,"sku":"FLAC 10690-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080023470401,"sku":"FLACUP 10690-3","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10690-3front.jpg?v=1751036640"},{"product_id":"mascagni-cavalleria-rusticana-shuard-cossutta-minton-bisson-balkwill","title":"Mascagni: Cavalleria Rusticana - Shuard, Cossutta, Bisson, Minton, Bainbridge; Balkwill.  London, 1967","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eCavalleria Rusticana\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePietro Mascagni (1863–1945)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis performance of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eCavalleria Rusticana\u003c\/span\u003e showcases the great and versatile British soprano, \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e, in the role of Santuzza. Until her untimely passing, Shuard was a cornerstone of London's operatic scene, excelling in the major roles of Wagner, Verdi, Puccini, and even Janáček. Her soprano was both opulent and steely, with remarkable evenness across all registers.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eShe is joined by the capable Turiddù of \u003cstrong\u003eCarlo Cossutta\u003c\/strong\u003e, while \u003cstrong\u003eYvonne Minton\u003c\/strong\u003e makes an impression as Lola.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSantuzza – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMamma Lucia – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Bainbridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLola – \u003cstrong\u003eYvonne Minton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTuriddu – \u003cstrong\u003eCarlo Cossutta\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlfio – \u003cstrong\u003eNapoleon Bisson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1967\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eBrian Balkwill\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10704-1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292637085832,"sku":"10704-1","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098714052,"sku":"MP3 10704-1","price":5.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080024322369,"sku":"FLAC 10704-1","price":6.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080024355137,"sku":"FLACUP 10704-1","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10704-1front.jpg?v=1751036620"},{"product_id":"janacek-jenufa-fine-shuard-cochran-dempsey-begg-van-allen-mackerras","title":"Janacek: Jenufa (In English) - Fine, Shuard, Cochran, Dempsey, Begg, Van Allen; Mackerras.  London, 1974","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eJenůfa\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeoš Janáček (1854–1928)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeoš Janáček\u003c\/strong\u003e never intended his best-known opera to be called \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eJenůfa\u003c\/span\u003e. That title was coined by German opera houses, early champions of the work. Janáček's original title, \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eJejí pastorkyňa\u003c\/span\u003e (\"Her Stepdaughter\"), makes it clear where he thought the opera's focus should lie: on Kostelnička. Performances like this one, featuring the incomparable \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e in the \"title role\" of Kostelnička, illustrate why.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eShuard portrays Kostelnička not as a stern dowager but as a fragile woman whose obsession with societal norms and fierce protectiveness of Jenůfa drive her to unthinkable acts. \u003cstrong\u003eWendy Fine\u003c\/strong\u003e is excellent in the titular role of Jenůfa, her voice youthful yet rich, capturing the character's intelligence and strength despite her age and past mistakes. \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Cochran\u003c\/strong\u003e is also outstanding as Laca, bringing depth and complexity to his role.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eJenufa – \u003cstrong\u003eWendy Fine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKostelnicka – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLaca – \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Cochran\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSteva – \u003cstrong\u003eGregory Dempsey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe old Burya – \u003cstrong\u003eHeather Begg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eForeman – \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Van Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKarolka – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Pashley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJano – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Gale\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMayor – \u003cstrong\u003eEric Garnett\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHis Wife – \u003cstrong\u003eNoreen Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBarena – \u003cstrong\u003eSusan Lees\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Maid – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Morelle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Aunt – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Shelley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eOctober 6, 1974\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eSir Charles Mackerras\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10705-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292637053064,"sku":"10705-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098698500,"sku":"MP3 10705-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080024256833,"sku":"FLAC 10705-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080024289601,"sku":"FLACUP 10705-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10705-2front.jpg?v=1751036619"},{"product_id":"benjamin-a-tale-of-two-cities-shuard-harper-young-lewis-langdon","title":"Benjamin: A Tale of Two Cities - Shuard, Harper, Young, Lewis, Langdon; Lovett.  London, 1957","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eA Tale of Two Cities\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Benjamin (1890–1963)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eI had no idea what to expect when I came across this recording, except that regardless of how the work turned out, I could at least count on some excellent singing. I was pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable this opera is. \u003cstrong\u003eArthur Benjamin\u003c\/strong\u003e's musical approach may not be the most innovative, but he demonstrates a clear understanding of how to craft a well-paced drama with exciting moments and memorable melodies.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e is particularly compelling as Madame Defarge, while \u003cstrong\u003eHeather Harper\u003c\/strong\u003e excels as Lucie Mannette and \u003cstrong\u003eAlexander Young\u003c\/strong\u003e shines as Charles Darnay. This opera seems overdue for a revival, and anyone who enjoys the novel will likely appreciate this musical adaptation.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSydney Carton – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Cameron\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLucie Manette – \u003cstrong\u003eHeather Harper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDr. Manette – \u003cstrong\u003eHeddie Nash\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMme Defarge – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDefarge – \u003cstrong\u003eJames Aitken\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCharles Darnay – \u003cstrong\u003eAlexander Young\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMr. Lorry – \u003cstrong\u003eRonald Lewis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSt Evremond – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMiss Pross – \u003cstrong\u003eJanet Howe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOld Marquis – \u003cstrong\u003eGeoffrey Clifton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOld Marquise – \u003cstrong\u003eEnid Lindsay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGabelle – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Osborne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYoung Countess – \u003cstrong\u003eGhena Lewis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCorporal – \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Gallagher\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJacques 1\/President of the Court – \u003cstrong\u003eFrederick Sharp\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJacques 2\/A Cripple – \u003cstrong\u003eEric Shilling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJacques 3 – \u003cstrong\u003eAlfred Hallet\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHurdy-Gurdy Man – \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Mallin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst Woman – \u003cstrong\u003eOlivia Rossi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSecond Woman – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Edwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThird Woman – \u003cstrong\u003eBrenda Scarfe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGaoler – \u003cstrong\u003eDonald Frank\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eJuly 22, 1957\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eLeon Lovett\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10714-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292636823688,"sku":"10714-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14098605700,"sku":"MP3 10714-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080024781121,"sku":"FLAC 10714-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080024813889,"sku":"FLACUP 10714-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10714-2front.jpg?v=1751036611"},{"product_id":"verdi-un-ballo-in-maschera-vickers-shuard-glossop-popp-verrett-kertesz","title":"Verdi: Un Ballo in maschera - Vickers, Shuard, Glossop, Popp, Verrett; Kertesz.  London, 1966","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eUn Ballo in maschera\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eUn ballo in maschera\u003c\/span\u003e features an entirely English-speaking cast, yet it captures the essence of this opera as well as any performance I’ve heard.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/b\u003e might seem an unconventional choice for the role of Riccardo, but he demonstrates his versatility, handling middle-period Verdi with the same skill and commitment he brought to roles like Radamès and Otello. Pairing him with \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e was a brilliant decision. Shuard, equally at home in Italian and German repertoire, combines the elegance and control of a great Verdi soprano with the power that made her a thrilling Isolde and Brünnhilde.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePeter Glossop\u003c\/b\u003e offers a superb Anckarström, delivering a performance rich in nuance and intensity. \u003cb\u003eShirley Verrett\u003c\/b\u003e’s immense talent feels almost underutilized as Ulrica, but when the role allows her to shine, she makes every moment count. \u003cb\u003eLucia Popp\u003c\/b\u003e is delightful as Oscar, bringing charm and sparkle to the character.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eGustavo – \u003cstrong\u003eJon Vickers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnckarström – \u003cstrong\u003ePeter Glossop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAmelia – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUlrica – \u003cstrong\u003eShirley Verrett\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOscar – \u003cstrong\u003eLucia Popp\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSilvano – \u003cstrong\u003eDelme Bryn-Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSamuele – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTom – \u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Rouleau\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUn Giudice – \u003cstrong\u003eGlynne Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIl servo d'Amelia – \u003cstrong\u003eArthur Cobbin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eMay, 1966\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eIstvan Kertesz\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10728-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292636332168,"sku":"10728-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099155716,"sku":"MP3 10728-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080027599169,"sku":"FLAC 10728-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080027631937,"sku":"FLACUP 10728-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10728-2front.jpg?v=1751036590"},{"product_id":"wagner-das-rheingold-ward-veasey-stolze-neidlinger-robinson-solti","title":"Wagner: Das Rheingold - Ward, Veasey, Stolze, Neidlinger, Robinson; Solti.  London, 1965","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eBesides its illustrious maestro, this \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/span\u003e does not sport the kind of super stars you may have seen gracing the operatic stages of the world during the 60s. That is not to say that the cast is anything but spectacular, in fact the absence of over-sized egos seems to encourage the ensemble to interact with each other in a direct and intimate fashion. \u003cb\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/b\u003e is a Wotan for the ages. His voice is robust and regal and his commitment to the play is both intense and understated. \u003cb\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/b\u003e's Fricka may in fact suffer from being too beautifully sung which is quite refreshing given how easy it is for this character to become a one-dimensional shrew. For my money, the real star of the show is the superb Loge of \u003cb\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/b\u003e. Although Stolze was more closely associated with Mime, he shows that he is just as comfortable being puckish as he is being grotesque. Solti's conducting reveals a breadth and organic quality that to a certain extent is missing from the overly manicured studio release.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eWotan – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFricka – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLoge – \u003cstrong\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMime – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Lanigan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlberich – \u003cstrong\u003eGustav Neidlinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFreia – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Vaughan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFroh – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Dobson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDonner – \u003cstrong\u003eVictor Godfrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eErda – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFasolt – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFafner – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWoglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWellgunde – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Robson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFloßhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1965\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10763-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634595464,"sku":"10763-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099161988,"sku":"MP3 10763-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080030286145,"sku":"FLAC 10763-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080030318913,"sku":"FLACUP 10763-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10763-2front_48d25956-a22a-4415-a6c8-51ae17f9c2af.jpg?v=1751036541"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-walkure-ward-shuard-jones-kozub-veasey-langdon-solti","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Shuard, Jones, Kozub, Ward, Veasey, Langdon; Solti.  London, 1965","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eAll sopranos who sing Brünnhilde generally fare better on one side of the cycle or the other. \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e's youthful soprano seems more at ease as the \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eWalküre\u003c\/span\u003e Brünnhilde. That is not to say that her voice is lacking in power as exemplified in her lusty hojotohos. \u003cb\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/b\u003e's understated Wotan may lack some of the bravado and presence of others who have sung this role, however, he brings an everyman quality which at times is quite effective highlighting, in particular, Wotan's vulnerability at the end of the opera very touchingly. A young \u003cb\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/b\u003e gets a chance to sink her teeth into Sieglinde, and demonstrates that she is certainly a Brünnhilde in the making. She is joined by \u003cb\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/b\u003e. It is a shame that this opera star's career seemed to sputter as he is without doubt one of the finest Siegmunds I have ever heard. Solti's conducting is larger than life.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSiegmund – \u003cstrong\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSieglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHunding – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWotan – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFricka – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGerhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Edwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrtlinde – \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Kingsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eAnn Howard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSchwertleite – \u003cstrong\u003eYvonne Minton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHelmwige – \u003cstrong\u003eRae Woodland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegrune – \u003cstrong\u003eNoreen Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrimgerde – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRoßweiße – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Bainbridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1965\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10764-4\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 \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634562696,"sku":"10764-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099213828,"sku":"MP3 10764-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080030351681,"sku":"FLAC 10764-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080030384449,"sku":"FLACUP 10764-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10764-4front.jpg?v=1751036540"},{"product_id":"wagner-siegfried-windgassen-hotter-shuard-stolze-solti","title":"Wagner: Siegfried - Windgassen, Hotter, Shuard, Stolze; Solti.  London, 1965","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis recording is particularly fascinating as it reunites much of the cast from the 1962 recording for a chance to hear them unfettered by Solti's insistence on multiple takes as he notoriously insisted upon in the studio. The result is certainly a performance that, although lacking in the same level of polish, breathes organically and seems in many ways effortless. \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e's youthful tenor was one of the best at conveying a teenager in this role. \u003cb\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/b\u003e offers a world-weary Wanderer. Once again \u003cb\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/b\u003e nearly steals the show as Mime. Can anyone name a better character tenor in the history of opera? \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e starts out strong but seems to tire as the opera comes to a close, opting out of the last high C. It is a small price to pay considering how mellifluously she spins \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003e\"Ewig war ich\"\u003c\/span\u003e almost as if she were singing a Mozart aria.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSiegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMime – \u003cstrong\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWanderer – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlberich – \u003cstrong\u003eOtakar Kraus\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eErda – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFafner – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaldvogel – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1965\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10765-4\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 \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634529928,"sku":"10765-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099251396,"sku":"MP3 10765-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080030417217,"sku":"FLAC 10765-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080030449985,"sku":"FLACUP 10765-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10765-4front.jpg?v=1751036539"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-windgassen-shuard-frick-shaw-veasey-solti","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Shuard, Windgassen, Frick, Shaw, Veasey; Solti. London, 1965","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlthough \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e was a singer whom I have admired for many years, every singer has their limits and occasionally Shuard pushes the limits of her lyric instrument. Still she sings intelligently and highlights Brünnhilde's youth and vulnerability. Accordingly she doesn't play Act II as a vengeful Valkyrie but as a scared teenager, and if her voice at times buckles under the pressures of the role it adds to the desperation of the character. \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e, on the other hand, seems much more comfortable in the role of Siegfried. \u003cb\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/b\u003e's Hagen is beyond compare. Pure evil. \u003cb\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/b\u003e seems to relish the infinite color and detail of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/span\u003e more than any of the other operas in this cycle and at times ignites the orchestra into a frenzy.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHagen – \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlberich – \u003cstrong\u003eOtakar Kraus\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGunther – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Shaw\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGutrune – \u003cstrong\u003eHeather Harper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWoglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWellgunde – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Robson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFloßhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eErste Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eHelen Watts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eZweite Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDritte Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1965\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10766-4\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 \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634497160,"sku":"10766-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099223108,"sku":"MP3 10766-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080030515521,"sku":"FLAC 10766-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080030548289,"sku":"FLACUP 10766-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10766-4front.jpg?v=1751036537"},{"product_id":"wagner-ring-excerpts-ward-hotter-shuard-jones-windgassen-frick-kozub-solti","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen (excerpts) - Shuard, Windgassen, Ward, Hotter, Jones; Solti.  London, 1965","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDer Ring des Nibelungen - Excerpts\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite the fact that \u003cb\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/b\u003e's name has now become forever linked to Wagner's \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/span\u003e, he seems to have conducted only a few complete cycles. His last outing was in 1983 at Bayreuth. Sadly, it became clear that he had lost his insight into Wagner's tetralogy creating an overly-analyzed and mannered performance. In many ways this performance, from 1965, may be his finest recording of the \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing\u003c\/span\u003e. Notorious in the studio for insisting on take after take, to the detriment of any kind of freshness, he is forced to rely more on his instincts which prove to be wiser in many ways than his obsession with perfection. The orchestration sounds like a living organism that undulates and breathes with the action on stage. The cast assembled is first rate. \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e brings a beauty and youthfulness that is rarely associated with Brünnhilde. \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/b\u003e reprise their roles as Siegfried and Hagen, respectively, and a young \u003cb\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/b\u003e gets to dip her toe into the Wagner pool, delivering a red-hot Sieglinde aided in no small part by the superb Siegmund of \u003cb\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/b\u003e. This should be a priceless document to anyone who grew up listening to the Solti \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eWotan – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSieglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegmund – \u003cstrong\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMime – \u003cstrong\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDer Wanderer – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHagen – \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1965\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10768-2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634464392,"sku":"10768-2","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099242500,"sku":"MP3 10768-2","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080030581057,"sku":"FLAC 10768-2","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080030613825,"sku":"FLACUP 10768-2","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10768-2front.jpg?v=1751036536"},{"product_id":"wagner-die-meistersinger-von-nurnberg-bailey-byrne-curphey-hammond-stroud-goodall","title":"Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (In English) - Bailey, Byrne, Curphey, Hammond-Stroud; Goodall.  London, 1968","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDie Meistersinger von Nürnberg\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eAside from being an excellent recording of \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eMeistersinger\u003c\/span\u003e in its own right, this recording will certainly win over anyone who ever had any doubts about Opera in English or Sir \u003cb\u003eReginald Goodall\u003c\/b\u003e. The immediacy of hearing this opera in the vernacular was like no other experience I have ever had with this opera. English speakers will finally get to truly appreciate the wit and pathos that Wagner brings to his only mature comedy. As for Goodall, you are probably thinking that this recording will be slow. I will not lie; I had to use all my wizardry to get this on to four discs. That said, at no point did I ever feel like the drama or the musical line wasn't moving forward organically, and Goodall's broad tempi give the listener a chance to truly appreciate Wagner's lush romanticism along with the complex fugal writing. The cast is first rate. \u003cb\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/b\u003e seems completely at ease for the entire evening and brings an avuncular warmth to the cobbler. \u003cb\u003eMargaret Curphey\u003c\/b\u003e, as Eva, brings a lush, if somewhat mature sound to the role coupled with girlish charm. \u003cb\u003eConnell Byrne\u003c\/b\u003e replaces \u003cb\u003eAlberto Remedios\u003c\/b\u003e as Walther. His voice is youthful and has a quality that brought to mind Windgassen. Occasionally Goodall's broad tempi get the better of him, especially in the scene where Walther and Sachs are composing the Meisterlied, but he manages to regroup and delivers a \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003ePreislied\u003c\/span\u003e worthy of a Mastersinger.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eHans Sachs – \u003cstrong\u003eNorman Bailey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVeit Pogner – \u003cstrong\u003eNoel Mangin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSixtus Beckmesser – \u003cstrong\u003eDerek Hammond-Stroud\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFritz Kothner – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Bowman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWalther von Stolzing – \u003cstrong\u003eConnell Byrne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDavid – \u003cstrong\u003eGregory Dempsey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEva – \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Curphey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMagdalena – \u003cstrong\u003eAnn Robson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNight Watchman – \u003cstrong\u003eIan Comboy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKunz Vogelgesang – \u003cstrong\u003eRobin Donald\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKonrad Nachtigall – \u003cstrong\u003eJulian Moyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUlrich Eisslinger – \u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Egerton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBalthasar Zorn – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Brecknock\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAugustin Moser – \u003cstrong\u003eLouis Browne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHermann Ortel – \u003cstrong\u003eJames Singleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHans Schwarz – \u003cstrong\u003eGerwyn Morgan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHans Foltz – \u003cstrong\u003eEric Stannard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eSeptember 18, 1968\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eReginald Goodall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10770-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634398856,"sku":"10770-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099189060,"sku":"MP3 10770-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080030712129,"sku":"FLAC 10770-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080030744897,"sku":"FLACUP 10770-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10770-4front.jpg?v=1751036533"},{"product_id":"wagner-der-ring-des-nibelungen-shuard-windgassen-ward-hotter-jones-kozub-solti-london-1965","title":"Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen - Shuard, Windgassen, Ward, Hotter, Jones, Kozub; Solti.  London, 1965","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDer Ring des Nibelungen\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite the fact that \u003cb\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/b\u003e's name has now become forever linked to Wagner's \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing Cycle\u003c\/span\u003e, he seems to have conducted only a few complete cycles. His last outing was in 1983 at Bayreuth. Sadly it became clear that he had lost his insight into Wagner's tetralogy, creating an overly-analyzed and mannered performance. In many ways this performance, from 1965, may be his finest recording of the \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing\u003c\/span\u003e. Notorious in the studio for insisting on take after take, to the detriment of any kind of freshness, he is forced to rely more on his instincts which prove to be wiser in many ways than his obsession with perfection. The orchestration sounds like a living organism that undulates and breathes with the action on stage. The cast assembled is first rate. \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e brings a beauty and youthfulness that is rarely associated with Brünnhilde. \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/b\u003e reprise their roles as Siegfried and Hagen, respectively, and a young \u003cb\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/b\u003e gets to dip her toe into the Wagner pool, delivering a red-hot Sieglinde aided in no small part by the superb Siegmund of \u003cb\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/b\u003e. This should be a priceless document to anyone who grew up listening to the Solti \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRing\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Wotan – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Fricka – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Loge – \u003cstrong\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mime – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Lanigan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Alberich – \u003cstrong\u003eGustav Neidlinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Freia – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Vaughan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Froh – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Dobson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Donner – \u003cstrong\u003eVictor Godfrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Erda – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Fasolt – \u003cstrong\u003eForbes Robinson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Fafner – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Woglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Wellgunde – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Robson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Floßhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Siegmund – \u003cstrong\u003eErnst Kozub\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Sieglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Hunding – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Brünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Wotan – \u003cstrong\u003eDavid Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Fricka – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Gerhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAnne Edwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Ortlinde – \u003cstrong\u003eMargaret Kingsley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Waltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eAnn Howard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Schwertleite – \u003cstrong\u003eYvonne Minton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Helmwige – \u003cstrong\u003eRae Woodland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Siegrune – \u003cstrong\u003eNoreen Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Grimgerde – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Roßweiße – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Bainbridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Siegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mime – \u003cstrong\u003eGerhard Stolze\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Wanderer – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Brünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Alberich – \u003cstrong\u003eOtakar Kraus\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Erda – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Fafner – \u003cstrong\u003eMichael Langdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Waldvogel – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Brünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Siegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Hagen – \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Alberich – \u003cstrong\u003eOtakar Kraus\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Gunther – \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Shaw\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Gutrune – \u003cstrong\u003eHeather Harper\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Waltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Woglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Wellgunde – \u003cstrong\u003eElizabeth Robson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Floßhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Erste Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eHelen Watts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Zweite Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eMaureen Guy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Dritte Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eGwyneth Jones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003e Location: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Date: \u003cstrong\u003e1965\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Conductor: \u003cstrong\u003eGeorg Solti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Catalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10767-14\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Label: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Number of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e14\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eIn Mono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292634235016,"sku":"10767-14","price":112.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099185988,"sku":"MP3 10767-14","price":59.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080030974273,"sku":"FLAC 10767-14","price":73.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080031007041,"sku":"FLACUP 10767-14","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10767-14front.jpg?v=1751036527"},{"product_id":"wagner-parsifal-cox-shuard-crass-stewart-ridderbusch-mcintyre-boulez","title":"Wagner: Parsifal - Cox, Shuard, Crass, Stewart, Ridderbusch, McIntyre; Boulez.  Bayreuth, 1968","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eParsifal\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eAfter having heard so many slow (or I suppose I should say \"broad\") \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eParsifals\u003c\/span\u003e, I have to say it was very refreshing to hear Boulez's crisp approach to the score. \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eParsifal\u003c\/span\u003e is an opera that should have a feeling of existing in suspended animation, however, Boulez's brisk tempi give a naturalism and almost conversational rhythm to the vocal lines as well as capturing the youthful energy of the title character. \u003cb\u003eJean Cox\u003c\/b\u003e, in my opinion, never got the recognition that he deserved in the heldentenor roles. His voice may not have had star-quality, but his approach in Wagner was always tasteful and his voice managed well with the demands of those roles. \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e is a wild Kundry without descending into caricature. \u003cb\u003eFranz Crass\u003c\/b\u003e's suave voice gives Gurnemanz a welcome youthful quality that you don't often hear in this role (\u003cb\u003eRené Pape\u003c\/b\u003e being a present-day exception.) The cast is rounded out by \u003cb\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/b\u003e as a heroic Amfortas and \u003cb\u003eDonald McIntyre\u003c\/b\u003e as Klingsor.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eAmfortas – \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Stewart\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTiturel – \u003cstrong\u003eKarl Ridderbusch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGurnemanz – \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Crass\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eParsifal – \u003cstrong\u003eJean Cox\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKlingsor – \u003cstrong\u003eDonald McIntyre\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKundry – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlto Stimme – \u003cstrong\u003eUnni Rugtvedt\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKnappe 1 – \u003cstrong\u003eElisabeth Schwarzenberg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKnappe 2 – \u003cstrong\u003eSieglinde Wagner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKnappe 3 – \u003cstrong\u003eDieter Slembek\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKnappe 4 – \u003cstrong\u003eHorst Hoffmann\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 1 – \u003cstrong\u003eHannelore Bode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 2 – \u003cstrong\u003eLily Sauter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 3 – \u003cstrong\u003eHelga Dernesch\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 4 – \u003cstrong\u003eDorothea Siebert\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 5 – \u003cstrong\u003eWendy Fine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlumenmädchen 6 – \u003cstrong\u003eSieglinde Wagner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRitter 1 – \u003cstrong\u003eHermin Esser\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRitter 2 – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Moll\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eBayreuth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003e1968\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003ePierre Boulez\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10781-4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLabel: \u003cstrong\u003eOpera Depot\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Discs: \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn Stereo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\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},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080031531329,"sku":"FLAC 10781-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080031564097,"sku":"FLACUP 10781-4","price":2.95,"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-die-walkure-varnay-hotter-shuard-vinay-boese-bohme-konwitschny","title":"Wagner: Die Walküre - Varnay, Hotter, Shuard, Vinay, Boese, Böhme; Konwitschny. London, 1959","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eYou wonder if the audience at this performance in 1959 understood that what they were hearing was about as close to perfection as Wagner ever comes. To have all of the main roles cast with singers who would go down in history as some of the finest Wagnerians of their generation seems almost impossible today (not to say that there aren't some very fine Wagnerians out there.) \u003cb\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/b\u003e is magnificent as Brünnhilde right from her entrance and delivers a nuanced and subtle performance well paired to the dramatic sensitivity of \u003cb\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/b\u003e. The two create one of the most intimate final scenes I have ever heard. As the Wälsungen, we are treated to a young \u003cb\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/b\u003e as Sieglinde and \u003cb\u003eRamón Vinay\u003c\/b\u003e as Siegmund. Although Shuard possessed a voice of considerable power, the strength of her singing never came at the expense of beauty and lyricism creating a Sieglinde aligned with the tradition of \u003cb\u003eLotte Lehmann\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eFrida Leider\u003c\/b\u003e. Ramón Vinay was about a year away from transitioning to baritone and you do get the sense that at times navigating the passaggio seems a little more labored than it did in the early 50s. Regardless, the baritonal richness of his voice remains intact and given the lower nature of this role, he manages admirably.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSiegmund – \u003cstrong\u003eRamón Vinay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSieglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHunding – \u003cstrong\u003eKurt Böhme\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWotan – \u003cstrong\u003eHans Hotter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFricka – \u003cstrong\u003eUrsula Boese\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGerhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eJoyce Barker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrtlinde – \u003cstrong\u003eUna Hale\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eMargreta Elkins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSchwertleite – \u003cstrong\u003eJean Watson\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHelmwige – \u003cstrong\u003eJudith Pierce\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegrune – \u003cstrong\u003eNoreen Berry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrimgerde – \u003cstrong\u003eHeather Begg\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRoßweiße – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eSeptember 23, 1959\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Konwitschny\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10829-3\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 \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292631187592,"sku":"10829-3","price":26.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099213572,"sku":"MP3 10829-3","price":14.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080034971969,"sku":"FLAC 10829-3","price":17.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080035004737,"sku":"FLACUP 10829-3","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10829-3front.jpg?v=1751036456"},{"product_id":"wagner-gotterdammerung-varnay-windgassen-frick-uhde-kraus-shuard-konwitschny","title":"Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Varnay, Windgassen, Frick, Uhde, Kraus, Shuard; Konwitschny.  London, 1959","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"two-column-grid\"\u003e \u003c!-- Left Column: Title, Composer, Description --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch1 class=\"title-header\"\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/h1\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRichard Wagner (1813–1883)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDESCRIPTION\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eIf \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eDas Rheingold\u003c\/span\u003e is a political allegory, \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eDie Walküre\u003c\/span\u003e is a family drama, \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eSiegfried\u003c\/span\u003e a comedy, then \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eGötterdämmerung\u003c\/span\u003e can be broadly characterized as the action film of the group. And if \u003cb\u003eGeorge Bernard Shaw\u003c\/b\u003e found the whole affair rather tawdry in relationship to the subtlety of the earlier operas, he can easily be overlooked when you assemble a cast like this that is able to ignite the stage in a firestorm of drama and excitement. \u003cb\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/b\u003e is a force of nature throughout delivering one of the most exciting Act IIs I have ever heard. \u003cb\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/b\u003e's Siegfried should be well known to Wagner lovers thanks to the Solti and Böhm \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eRings\u003c\/span\u003e. Surprisingly, in 1959 his voice actually had a darker hue than in the 60s. \u003cb\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/b\u003e's Hagen is terrifying both due to the black color of his voice as well as the everyman quality he brought to the role elevating the character out of mythic proportions to a level that is more readily identifiable in the context of real life. As alluded to in my descriptions of the previous installments, Konwitschny seems to favor broader tempos. This, at times, seems to flummox the singers who often get ahead of his beat. This is particularly true of Windgassen. Perhaps this was due to a lack of rehearsal or perhaps the singers were just being willful. In the end, you wish that they had made more of an effort to go with his vision as the breadth he brings to the score is revelatory.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr class=\"mobile-only-hr\"\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c!-- Right Column: Cast and Details --\u003e \u003cdiv\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eCAST\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrünnhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eAstrid Varnay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSiegfried – \u003cstrong\u003eWolfgang Windgassen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHagen – \u003cstrong\u003eGottlob Frick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlberich – \u003cstrong\u003eOtakar Kraus\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGunther – \u003cstrong\u003eHermann Uhde\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGutrune – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWaltraute – \u003cstrong\u003eUrsula Boese\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWoglinde – \u003cstrong\u003eJoan Carlyle\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWellgunde – \u003cstrong\u003eJosephine Veasey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFloßhilde – \u003cstrong\u003eMarjorie Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFirst Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eMarjorie Thomas\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSecond Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eMonica Sinclair\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThird Norn – \u003cstrong\u003eAmy Shuard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003chr\u003e \u003ch3 class=\"section-heading\"\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocation: \u003cstrong\u003eLondon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDate: \u003cstrong\u003eOctober 2, 1959\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConductor: \u003cstrong\u003eFranz Konwitschny\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCatalogue Number: \u003cstrong\u003eOD 10831-4\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 \u003c\/div\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Opera Depot","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":31292631122056,"sku":"10831-4","price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"MP3","offer_id":14099222916,"sku":"MP3 10831-4","price":18.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC","offer_id":52080035234113,"sku":"FLAC 10831-4","price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"FLAC UPGRADE","offer_id":52080035266881,"sku":"FLACUP 10831-4","price":2.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/files\/10831-4front.jpg?v=1751036454"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0238\/9583\/collections\/Joyful_Trio_in_Pastel_Studio_Light.png?v=1792174483","url":"https:\/\/operadepot.com\/collections\/the-divs-of-sadlers-wells.oembed?page=3","provider":"Opera Depot","version":"1.0","type":"link"}