This performance of Lohengrin, captured in excellent sound, presents some of the finest singers of the post-war era. Marianne Schech is luminous as Elsa, displaying an upper register capable of sustaining prolonged stretches in the stratosphere without a hint of fatigue. Margarete Klose was nearing the end of her career, yet the voice shows little sign of wear. Her Ortrud brims with a feral intensity that brings to mind Leonie Rysanek in her later years. It would not be surprising if Klose influenced a young Rysanek during her stints in Berlin, where Klose was a member of the company.

George Vincent is less convincing in the title role, though he gives a commendable account of this notoriously difficult part. Rudolf Kempe delivers a meticulous and soulful reading of the score.