Description:

This recording captures Plácido Domingo's first venture into Wagnerian repertoire with his portrayal of Lohengrin. While Lohengrin is among the most lyrical of Wagner’s tenor roles, it demands a distinct vocal approach far removed from the repertoire that made Domingo famous.

In many respects, Domingo rises admirably to the challenge. Although the role does not extend beyond an A natural, it lies primarily within the passaggio, a notoriously taxing area for tenors. Singing Lohengrin effectively requires a purity of tone closer to Mozart than Verdi, and Domingo skillfully reins in his oversized, baritonal tenor for these passages. At the same time, he unleashes thrilling squillo when the role demands it.

Arlene Saunders brings her ethereal soprano to the role of Elsa. Saunders chose the stability of a Fest singer position in Hamburg over the jet-set life of an international opera star—a decision that makes sense but remains regrettable, as hers was truly a world-class instrument. Ruth Hesse delivers a fiery and commanding Ortrud, while Hans Sotin is a suave and authoritative Heinrich.

The sound is excellent, though there are a few brief glitches during "Einsam in trüben Tagen."

OD 10618-3