Le Nozze di Figaro

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791)

DESCRIPTION

Although stylistically Le Nozze di Figaro is far removed from The Ring Cycle, Hans Knappertsbusch applies a similar approach in shaping orchestral gestures to contour the dramatic flow on stage. His reading may strike some as somewhat heavy-handed, particularly to listeners attuned to the leaner textures of modern period performance. Yet the underlying musical insight and variety of color serve to propel the narrative with conviction.

The cast is uniformly strong. Maria Reining brings to the Countess the same elegance and vocal amplitude she demonstrated in roles such as Ariadne. Alfred Poell offers a refined portrayal of the Count, matching Reining in stylistic poise, while Paul Schöffler infuses Figaro with a grounded, unaffected charm.

CAST

Figaro – Paul Schöffler
Susanna – Elisabeth Rütgers
Conte Almaviva – Alfred Poell
Contessa Almaviva – Maria Reining
Cherubino – Dora Komarek
Basilio – Hermann Gallos
Antonio – Viktor Madin

DETAILS

Location: The Hague
Date: October 15, 1940
Conductor: Hans Knappertsbusch
Catalogue Number: OD 12313-2
Label: Opera Depot
Number of Discs: 2
In Mono

NOTE

The last five minutes of the opera are missing.

Act I

Act II

Act III

Act IV