Customer Reviews

Mozart: Don Giovanni

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

 

 

Not a Don for the casual listener but a splendid example of Klemperer in one of his manic phases. London is not idiomatic but he actually sings the role rather than bluster through it. Zadek is a justly admired singer of the 'old school', Simoneau is the finest Mozartian of his generation, Streich is a delight and Weber & Kusche make the most of their parts. Very good (mono) sound and the feel of a real performance. Listen to it for the love of Mozart.

I'm a novice of opera, so very likely nothing I know will aid more discerning purchasers. I didn't love this set at first, but it has grown on me amazingly.

The objective stuff: I think it's very complete. The booklets
include libretto, translation, and summaries of the action.

More subjectively: It's beautiful. I haven't liked any other recording I've listened to as well. The sound quality is absolutely fine. A really wonderful Leporello. I can't think of any quibbles I have with the sound or the performances, and my enjoyment of this has encouraged me to learn more.

From my experience so far, I think you couldn't do better for a first opera or first Don Giovanni than this. *shrug*

I'm a die-hard George London freak, but I cannot listen to this recording. Everything about it is just dreadful, especially the women who sound old and shrill.