Customer Reviews

Massenet - Werther / Hadley · von Otter · Upshaw · Frémeau · Caton · Théruel · Ragon · Lyon Opera · Nagano

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

There are multiple great recordings of "Werther," which is one of my favorite operas, and likely Massenet's greatest achievement. But I've concluded this is the recording I prefer. And, if you're only in the market for one recording, there is no doubt a perfect bet. It's the most recent of the notable recordings of "Werther," so the recording technology makes for a clean recording. The orchestral forces, under Nagano, are likely the most impressive of the notable recordings, and distinguish this recording the most from others. An additional distinguishing factor is Dawn Upshaw, a far better Sophie (the secondary female role) than you'll find in other recordings. Hadley and Von Otter bring a thoughtfulness to the main roles that is on par with Nagano's approach to the orchestral elements. And, in general, as compared to other recordings of "Werther," I would say this is the most "intellectual" reading. Thoughtful. Pure. Passionate, but controlled.

The "notable recordings" of "Werther" I'd recommend if you're in the market for comparing and seeing what suits your tastes are (1) the Gedda | de Los Angeles | Prêtre recording on EMI and (2) the Carreras | von Stade | Davis recording on Philips. Each has much to its credit. But I lean strongly toward this recording, in the end.

This opera is very well composed. Music is from very sweet to very serious and tragic. Overall it is very moody and emotional music. This recording is compelling, depicting mood of each scene very well. In the final scene, where Werther is dying, there is a singing of innocent children outside from the scene. This seems a little odd to me. Madama Butterfly used a similar scene. Singing of Jerry Hadley, Anne Sophie von Otter, and Dawn Upshaw are outstanding. Kent Nagano's conducting is also excellent.

If I could, I'd give this recording 10 stars. Anne Sofie von Otter and Jerry Hadley combine glorious singing with seething passion. The intensity of "Pourquoi me reveiller" would move a heart of stone. Dawn Upshaw's sweetly sung Charlotte is an added bonus. Nagano brings out every nuance in the score. Breathtaking and powerful. I love this recording. I don't see how the new set with Gheorghiu and Alagna could possibly compare.

I heard this cd's again this day and i found it also outstanding beautifully sung from everybody. Von Otter and Hadley do a great job!