Stravinsky's Oedipus Rex is a masterpiece although it probably wouldn't be included on anyone's list of operatic favorites. The performance here is ideal. The composer himself conducts a suspenseful performance using terrific soloists and a fine orchestra and chorus. As Mr. Fetz points out below the choral work in this piece is extremely important and longer than any of the soloists' parts. The men of the Cologne Radio are superb, producing beautiful tone and always rhythmically alert. If you haven't heard this opera, this would be a great place to start. The filler of Modl rarities is equally fascinating. We hear her in excerpts from Weill/Brecht's Mahogonny, Janacek's Jenufa, and an early radio performance of Purcell's Dido and Aeneas. All are sung in German.

We wait for the arrival of mighty Martha Modl, at her Verdian best, as Jocasta. But what precedes and follows is equally compelling. Pears is an expressive Oedipus and the orchestra and chorus provide a radiant reading of this Stravinski/Cocteau epic.The sound is excellent and the Modl rarities, especially from Mahagonny, are a gift.

Mödl, Pears and von Rohr under Stravinsky as a comoser and conductor. What else can you wish.

This is truly a fine performance of an oft neglected Masterpiece of Stravinsky.Peter Pears is at his best and Martha sounds great too. The chorus and orchestra are also very fine. The all male Chorus plays a pivital part in this opera and needs to be top notch. It is not an easy Opera to put together. I have had the pleasure of singing in the chorus for a productin and It is very challenging, But also very rewarding once you get it under your belt. I was surprised at the casting of Pears in the lead as most of the productions that I’ve heard have had a more spinto tenor cast as Oedipus. I realy like the more lyric sound of Pears voice in the roll. It works Very Well. The sound quality is really great for a recording of that vintage. Thanks for an excellent addition to my Opera library.