This recording presents a sublime performance in flawed sound. Although the voices emerge with reasonable clarity, intermittent static intrudes throughout and mars certain passages. For listeners willing to contend with these limitations, however, the performance offers Mozart singing of a very high order.

Peter Anders is perhaps an ideal Tamino, his robust, lyrical voice combining full-throated singing with exquisite finesse. Maria Reining is heavenly as Pamina and particularly well matched with Anders. Her voice combines purity with considerable dramatic weight, qualities that also made her an outstanding interpreter of Richard Strauss. Ludwig Weber brings profound warmth and gravitas to his singing, rounding out an excellent cast.

Karl Böhm leads an orderly performance, though his preference for slower tempos can at times impede the natural dramatic pacing.