Description:

When I put this recording on, I expected to hear a performance in German—the norm for Italian operas presented in Austria during the 1950s. To my surprise, the mostly Germanic cast performs in Italian. While the pronunciation occasionally falters (with “Questo” often emerging as “kvesto”), the effort to bring a sense of authenticity is appreciated. What the performance may lack in Italianate style, it makes up for in something more distinctive. Herbert von Karajan, unbound by tradition, offers a fresh perspective on Aida, letting the text guide his musical choices. He draws nuance from the score, supporting the singers both vocally and emotionally—lingering in moments of anguish and driving forward when the drama demands it. Though known as a symphonic maestro, it is clear from this performance that Karajan was very much a man of the theater. Carla Martinis's Aida may not be conventionally beautiful in tone, but her rock-solid technique allows her to float phrases with impressive delicacy. Lorenz Fehenberger, too, offers a secure and energetic Radamès, even if his timbre is not especially refined. Nell Rankin delivers a blazing Amneris. In the end, it is the visionary leadership in the pit that brings this performance to life.

In Mono

OD 12215-2