Listen to a Sample:

Pros:

• The star-power of this performance of Le Nozze di Figaro speaks for itself. But as lovers of this opera know, there is an ineffable magic that transcends star-power and separates the great performances from the humdrum. Sometimes an amateur performance in the basement of a church can capture the unique energy of this opera better than a performance at the Met of Covent Garden. I am glad to report that that critical Mozart spirit is present in spades in this performance, elevating this recording to one of my all-time favorites.
• Kiri Te Kanawa was the soprano voice of her generation, and perhaps any generation. I can't recall a more sublime performance of "Dove sono" than the one she delivers in this performance.
• Frederica Von Stade radiates youthful charm as Cherubino. Her "Voi che sapete" is particularly remarkable for its bel canto line.
• Hermann Prey's affable presence finds a happy home in the role of Figaro, although at times his inability to sing in tune mars his otherwise impressive baritone voice.
• As Susanna, Lucia Popp seems to have good chemistry with Prey. The fullness and purity of her tone make her a good vocal fit for the role although, like Prey, she struggles a bit with staying in tune during her Act IV aria.
• Wolfgang Sawallisch missed the boat on the period performance movement that was burgeoning at the time of this performance, and unwittingly makes a good argument for Mozart with a touch of 19th century German Romanticism.
• The sound is excellent.

Cons:

• None to mention.

In Stereo

OD 12024-3