Description:

Lorin Maazel offers a sweeping, unapologetically romantic interpretation in this performance of Der Ring des Nibelungen, emphasizing the grandeur and emotional breadth of Wagner’s epic cycle. His approach to tempo is fluid and flexible, with meticulous attention to orchestral detail. Maazel also incorporates a number of editorial choices—most of which are executed with refined musical taste—adding further dimension to his interpretation.

He is aided by an exceptional cast. Berit Lindholm is in superb voice as the Walküre and Siegfried Brünnhildes, delivering remarkable vocal control and presence, particularly in her brief but punishing appearance in Siegfried. Gladys Kuchta takes on the Götterdämmerung Brünnhilde and navigates even the most demanding passages with clarity and grace, maintaining the beauty of her sterling soprano throughout.

Jess Thomas is in fine voice as Siegfried. While signs of strain occasionally surface in the heavier dramatic moments, he brings unexpected sweetness and lyrical finesse to more intimate passages, especially during the “Forest Murmurs” in Act II of Siegfried. Thomas Stewart brings a commanding blend of glamour and gravitas to Wotan, and later, to Gunther in Götterdämmerung.

Leonie Rysanek and James King provide real star power as Sieglinde and Siegmund, delivering radiant and emotionally charged performances. Janis Martin offers a rich, expressive Fricka, and veteran bass Josef Greindl makes a powerful impression as Hagen.

The recording is in excellent stereo sound. Ring cycles just don’t get much better than this.

In Stereo

OD 11367-2