Such a cast is truly a wonderful occurance. Many levels of accomplishment and everyone is a storied performer. Purchase of this release centered around the hope this period sound would be adequate. It is very good for the time, especially when compared to other releases from this time. The performance has an interesting flexibility of pace and intent. The first act seemed long. The following two acts felt more engaged. And principals though singing well weren’t absorbing. Their interpretive stance is one of heroic engagement, which seems on par for the times and approach. Kipnis is wonderful and very solid, Singher is leaning towards Bayreuth bark, though his intentions are on target. Maison - a favorite tenor from other performances, deplays a dark sound works well for the part. The bright and shining sound of Marjorie Lawrence was a pull for purchasing this particular performance as well as the conducting by Fritz Busch. Ms. Lawrence has no fears for this difficult role. Her higher placement as soprano brings dividends, especially in the higher reaches of this role, where there are plenty of opportunities. Because her sound is so bright, and slices through so well, the intensity of interpretation went a bit over for these ears. Exciting, bracing and caustic there were many moments where the intensity was all purpose and not very specific for the role. Little empathy here embuing a strong performance. Others may truly love this singing, yet for my personal taste, she has always been an acquired one. It is wonderful to hear a complete role from her as there are limited performances available and this definitely adds a strong one to those available. Maestro Busch has this score in hand with strong direction and understanding of tempo balances and the relationship of these tempi to each other in a dramatic sense. Many places are moved along briskly, which sometimes prevents an emapthy for the characters to develop sufficiently. The overall outcome leans toward strength and seriousness without a spiritual radiance within. A special mention of the Klingsor - Fritz Krenn, with a centered tone and intent, whose performance creates curiosity for more examples of his artistry to find and enjoy. A positive feeling for this performance, nevertheless needing a deep spirituality which could actually be found other places.

A performance of its time, marvellous musicians, fine conductor.