Description:

Shortly before the performance, Reginald Goodall fell ill, leaving the cast in the very capable hands of Sir Charles Mackerras. Mackerras brings a fresh perspective that ignites the proceedings. While he nods to Goodall’s preference for slower tempi, his pacing is more varied, injecting a vitality that was absent from Goodall’s interpretation. One can only wonder what Mackerras might have achieved with the remaining three operas in the cycle.

Norman Bailey delivers an excellent Wotan, his voice tireless and his diction crystal clear. Ann Howard is a lush and commanding Fricka. The standouts, however, are Émile Belcourt as Loge and Derek Hammond-Stroud as Alberich. Both bring remarkable depth and personality to these character roles, coupled with admirable vocal performances.

The sound quality is good, though it’s worth noting that approximately thirty seconds of music are missing from the final scene. For the sake of continuity, a recording of an unknown performance in German was seamlessly inserted. Despite this minor issue, the performance remains a compelling addition to any collection.

OD 10562-2