Description:

The cast assembled for this performance of Das Rheingold is about as strong as one could hope for. Thomas Stewart delivers an impeccably sung Wotan, capturing the youthful charisma and swagger of the god while maintaining a level of vocal refinement that elevates every scene he’s in. Janis Martin brings an unusually sensual dimension to Fricka, a character too often played as merely shrill or scolding.

Wolfgang Windgassen, more frequently associated with heroic roles, clearly relishes the chance to scale back his sound, delivering Loge’s lines with conversational fluidity and nuance. Helga Dernesch lends unexpected dramatic substance to Freia, her opulent soprano giving the role more weight than the typical “damsel in distress” portrayal. Gerhard Stolze makes the most of his brief turn as Mime, stealing the scene with his vivid character work. Karl Ridderbusch is a noble, eloquent Fasolt, and Gustav Neidlinger offers yet another masterful take on his signature role of Alberich.

Lorin Maazel conducts with precision and insight, highlighting the score’s intricate details while maintaining strong dramatic pacing throughout.

In Stereo

OD 11362-2