Customer Reviews

Beethoven - Fidelio / Benacková · Rolfe Johnson · Vogel · I. Raimondi · Ainsley · Wilson-Johnson · Sir Charles Mackerras

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This has to be one of the best recordings of Beethoven's only opera. The cast is superb, with perhaps the exception of Czech soprano Benackova, but she gets the job done. Ildiko Raimondi sings a charming Marzelline, though her voice often overpowers and outshines Benackova's Leonore. Vogel is a convincing Rocco. The baritone who sings the villainous role of Don Pizarro gives an outstanding performance. His act I aria sends chills down my spine every time I listen to it! You can hear the absolute hatred in his voice as he reflects on his plan to murder Florestan. Definitely one of the highlights of this recording! Florestan is sung very well, however, there are moments in his act II aria where it seems as though the role is too demanding on his voice. The other, smaller roles are also well sung.

I love Mackerras' conducting in this recording. His tempi are as close to perfect as I have found. This is particularly noticeable in the opening duet, which is often taken far too slowly. The music moves along smoothly, bringing out the drama in the story line, rather than hindering it, as in other recordings I have heard.

The balance between the orchestra and the singers is wonderful, and the sound quality in general is excellent. A must buy for any lover of opera!

This recording reproduces everything with clarity and strong presence, thanks to the smaller forces of the orchestra and the period brass instruments.