Description:

Because Die Zauberflöte is such a perennial favorite (and ticket seller), opera companies will often relegate the casting to “up and coming” (a.k.a. inexpensive) younger singers. Because of this fact, even though it is so ubiquitous in opera houses around the world, to find a first rate cast is all to rare. Fortunately, this performance is one such occasion in which no expense was spared to assemble some of the best artists to remind the world of the merits of Mozart’s mystical fairy tale. Peter Schreier embodies all of the ideal traits for a first rate Mozart tenor; technical security, musicality and exceptional musical taste. Joan Carlyle’s Pamina, in addition to being beautifully sung, has the kind of musical detail that reveals an artist who is not only a great singer but also a great musician. Hermann Prey brings an earthy elegance to the role of Papageno, managing to completely charm the audience. Franz Crass’ bass has the best characteristics of a basso cantante and basso profundo. The sound is excellent.

OD 11046-3