Description:

Herbert von Karajan leads the forces of RAI di Roma in a performance that manages to balance Italianate warmth with the form and elegance of German Singspiel. Elisabeth Schwarzkopf and Nicolai Gedda are beautifully matched, both offering refined tone, superb control, and expressive phrasing that solidify their reputations as two of the finest Mozart interpreters of their generation. Giuseppe Taddei delights as Papageno, bringing excellent comic timing and surprising tenderness through his plush baritone. Rita Streich navigates the Queen's demanding arias with precision and flair, though she might leave some listeners wishing for a touch more weight and authority.

In Mono

OD 12051-2