Cornell MacNeil is so associated with Verdi that it's hard to think of him singing anything else. Yet he shows here what a fine Wagnerian he might have been had he chosen to go in that direction. The voice is even from top to bottom, the high notes strong and ringing, the low notes clear and exactly pitched. And Big Mac doesn't just sing well, but brings the Dutchman's anguish out vividly. If he doesn't have the comfort with the language that a native speaker would, he certainly shows that he would have had that with more practice and experience. He sang this role at the Met too during this time period: a change of repertoire that never quite happened.Janis Martin sings really well as Senta if without the complete involvement of Rysanek. She has all the notes, but has to work at it towards the end of Act Two when Wagner demands one high B after another. Nevertheless she rallies and ends the opera with a thrilling final phrase. Martin was taken for granted because she was always good and yet didn't quite have that ultimate spark of individuality. Cochran sings Erik's demanding music with virility. Lilowa is a distinguished Mary and Dallapozza a lovely Steersman. Manfred Schenk contributes a memorable Daland with his deep, steady bass. Suitner leads an exciting performance with distinguished contributions from the chorus and orchestra.The transfer level is rather low; you'll need to turn the volume up a little. Otherwise the sound is excellent with no glitches.

MacNeil was outstanding; the reason I bought this CD.

Cornell MacNeil singing Wagner – a real surprise!