This recording of Der Rosenkavalier brings together an outstanding trio of women in the leading roles. Brigitte Fassbaender, who dominated the role of Octavian in the 70s and 80s, delivers a portrayal that is both sensual and masculine, naïve yet insecure.

Gundula Janowitz shines as the Marschallin, a role she surprisingly did not perform more often. Her delicate tone and refined sensibility are perfectly suited to the character, offering a Marschallin who convincingly sounds like a young woman—after all, despite her musings on aging, the Marschallin is likely only in her 30s.

Ileana Cotrubas brings winsome charm and inner sensuality to Sophie, her youthful exuberance peaking beautifully during the presentation of the rose, where her top notes bloom radiantly. Karl Ridderbusch offers a lumbering yet ultimately sympathetic Ochs, avoiding the trap of caricature by revealing glimpses of the aristocratic dignity hidden beneath his coarse exterior.

The supporting cast is equally strong, with Veriano Luchetti as a superb Italian Singer and Thomas Helmsley as an excellent Faninal. The sound quality is very good, though there are minor breaks in Act II.