It is hard to imagine a performance of Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg that so completely captures the spirit of Wagner’s most human opera while at the same time presenting some of the most lyrical Wagner singing on record. Josef Greindl, as Hans Sachs, embodies the character’s deep humanity. The slightly gruff edge to his voice lends Sachs an everyman quality without diminishing the role’s inherent dignity and warmth.

Wolfgang Windgassen offers a masterclass in combining the principles of bel canto with the demands of Wagnerian singing, delivering one of the most elegant Prize Songs on record. Elisabeth Grümmer is an ideal Eva, bringing youthful freshness and vocal richness to the role while demonstrating exemplary attention to both text and character.

Theo Adam, heard here as Veit Pogner before later taking on the role of Hans Sachs, brings nobility to the part along with a secure upper register that is rarely encountered when a true bass undertakes the role. Hans Knappertsbusch shapes the performance with his customary command of the opera’s broad musical architecture while revealing orchestral details that illuminate the drama unfolding on stage.