This performance of Tristan und Isolde stands as a remarkable achievement for Scottish Opera. Conductor Alexander Gibson, who remained based primarily in Scotland throughout his career, proves his musical insight is anything but provincial. His interpretation of Wagner's score is deeply felt and sensitively shaped. Klara Barlow brings youth and a sense of glamor to Isolde, and while she occasionally strains in the upper register, she crowns the evening with a radiant Liebestod. Pekka Nuotio, a Finnish Heldentenor perhaps underappreciated in his time, is a true discovery here—his voice has a rare lyrical quality that he maintains even in Wagner's densest orchestration. Ann Howard as Brangäne and Norman Bailey as Kurwenal round out the cast with distinction, elevating this performance to a truly world-class level.