This recording was made for the RAI Rome and with the principals involved one would expect at least a decent performance. This is far more than a decent performance though; it's one of the best Fidelios I've heard in awhile. All of the soloists are in great form vocally and also speak their own dialogue, an important consideration for this opera. Some might say that it wouldn't matter if a separate cast of actors performed the dialogue (as in the Fricsay studio recording), but listen to Rysanek's urgency in the dungeon scene or Weber's explosion of joy and relief at "Gott sei Dank!" in the same scene when Jaquino informs them that Don Fernando is on his way. Rysanek's top is thrilling here, her middle less muddled than it could be. Hopf sings Florestan with conviction and Weber and Frantz are to the manner born. The underrated Lindermeier is a lovely Marzelline. Jochum directs a rousing, human performance that makes one glad to be alive. He and the orchestra do not perform the Leonore Overture #3.The sound is excellent with no glitches that I heard.