Description:

Before the early music revival of the 1970s and 1980s, productions of Gluck's Alceste often leaned more toward Romantic sensibilities than Classical ones, frequently casting a dramatic soprano in the title role. While purists might object to this interpretive approach, the Romantic style complements Gluck's music beautifully—especially with a powerhouse like Leyla Gencer in the lead. Gencer brings a grandiose intensity to this tragic opera, unapologetically embracing the drama without concern for Classical "restraint." She is paired with Mirto Picchi as Admeto, who provides a solid foil to her commanding presence. The translation used in this performance differs from the standard version from the Vienna premiere in 1767, so detailed track information could not be included. The sound quality is excellent.

OD 10814-2