Schoenberg's Gurrelieder is a celebration of the human voice combined with a full orchestra. Nothing really happens; a lot is inferred without being directly stated. The sheer beauty of the combined forces is overwhelming, especially when the full chorus enters at the end and the piece concludes in C major splendour.This performance is superb. Alexander Young gives us one of the more mellifluous accounts of Waldemar's music. If he is a little overwhelmed at times by the orchestra he never forces. Similarly, Arroyo's sleek, rich soprano makes the most of Tove's role. Baker sings the Forest Dove with incredible sensitivity and beauty while Patzak's speaking voice is as impressive as his singing. The other two soloists have characterful voices that perfectly fill out their roles. Ferencsik leads a gripping account of one of Schoenberg's most beautiful scores. If that weren't enough, the stereo sound is excellent, the Pirate Gods smiling happily on this occasion.

Alexander Young sings a stunning Valdemar. Janet Baker is, as always good. The Orchestra plays the demanding score with finness.

Was OK as usual. Thanks

Great sound quality and a great performance too. Martina Arroyo gives her sumptuous tone to the role of Tove, Janet Baker demonstrates why she was one of the greatest and Alexander Young sings an elegant Waldemar, which can’t always be said of singers of this role. Also, Julius Patzak does a beautifully atmospheric final scene. Thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommend.