Wagner

Die Walküre

Varnay, Hotter, Resnik, Vinay, Malaniuk, Greindl; C. Krauss
Bayreuth, 1953

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Die Walküre

Astrid Varnay and Hans Hotter are well-paired as Brünnhilde and Wotan, their scenes together marked by a sense of genuine dialogue and connection. Perhaps the most intriguing casting choice is Regina Resnik as Sieglinde. Though her top was never effortless—which later led her to mezzo repertoire—she throws herself into the role with such abandon that the effort only intensifies the raw passion Wagner demands. Ramón Vinay, who would eventually transition to baritone, is heard here with his upper register still fully intact and gleaming.

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David R.✓ Top Reviewer

United States

Overall rating

Great Performance, Great Sound!

The Krauss Ring cycle continues with this exciting performance of Die Walküre. Vinay sounds very comfortable, the role of Siegmund resting in the best part of his voice. Resnik is a sexy, slightly wild Sieglinde who is his passionate match. Varnay's opening "Ho-jo-to-ho!" sounds almost feral, the top Bs and Cs cleanly taken, the often left out trill superb. Her Todesverkündigung with Vinay is the highlight of the performance. Hotter is in excellent voice and is heartbreaking in his final farewell to his daughter. Malaniuk and Greindl hold up the very high standards of the rest of this cycle. The Act Three Walküren are very enthusiastic, if shrill (not inappropriate for these roles). Thomamüller, a holdout from previous Bayreuth seasons, continues to be a screechy Helmwige.The performance isn't flawless; there are a few fudged entrances or dropped lines here and there, but the overall thrill is apparent from the first note. Krauss' pacing keeps everyone on their toes. The sound is clear and warm.Onto Siegfried!
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