Description:

This lively and engaging performance of Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg may not boast the star power of some other renditions, but it offers an excellent ensemble of Bayreuth regulars from the 1970s—each delivering finely crafted, stylistically secure interpretations. At the center is Norman Bailey, whose portrayal of Hans Sachs stands as one of his greatest achievements. His warm bass-baritone suits the role perfectly, allowing for both the conversational intimacy of Wagner’s writing and the sheer vocal endurance the part demands.

Jean Cox is in excellent form as Walther von Stolzing, charting the character’s evolution from impetuous knight to inspired poet with conviction and vocal clarity. Janis Martin, who had sung Magdalena the previous summer, steps confidently into the role of Eva, affirming her place as a soprano of substance. Karl Ridderbusch brings gravitas to Veit Pogner, and Thomas Hemsley offers a wonderfully drawn Beckmesser—his Act III scene capped by a held A natural longer than any other baritone on record.

In Stereo

OD 11381-4