This performance of Salome is one of my all-time favorite recordings. It features the incomparable Leonie Rysanek in the title role. Rysanek's voice was absolutely made for this part. Despite its formidable size, her voice remained distinctly feminine and, at times, almost vulnerably delicate. She uses these qualities masterfully, convincingly portraying Salome as the young girl she is.

Rysanek is perfectly matched by the Herodes of Jon Vickers. It's unfortunate that Vickers didn't perform this opera more often (more on that below). His portrayal of Herodes is both slimy and terrifying, skillfully avoiding caricature. Thomas Stewart brings his rich baritone to the role of Jochanaan. While his performance is filled with the requisite fire and brimstone, the beauty of his tone makes it easy to understand why Salome becomes so infatuated with him.