Description:

The exact context of this performance remains somewhat unclear. It took place before the reopening of the Wiener Staatsoper, and all spoken dialogue—along with the Act II Melodram—is omitted, though the orchestral accompaniment is still performed. What does come through unmistakably is the sense of catharsis shared by performers and audience alike in the wake of World War II.

Martha Mödl is captured at her peak, singing with her characteristic abandon while maintaining striking control over her distinctive instrument. Wolfgang Windgassen brings a youthful brightness to Florestan, shaping the character with both elegance and emotional weight. Elisabeth Schwarzkopf and Rudolf Schock offer refined contributions as Marzelline and Jacquino, respectively.

The performance’s true anchor is Herbert von Karajan, whose conducting reveals insight at every turn. The choral passages, shaped with care by Karajan and the Wiener Singverein, are especially moving and stand as some of the most memorable moments in the performance.

BONUS:
Martha Mödl sings "Abscheulicher!" from Fidelio
Athens, 1957

In Mono

OD 11868-2