A sampling of a year’s best releases not to be forgotten as a new year dawns
I would be grossly dishonest to pretend that I am able to review more than a fraction of the classical releases I receive weekly. So I abandon all pretence to inclusiveness, and instead focus on the vocal issues that led me closest to the gates of heaven these past twelve months.
……………………………………………………………..
CANTELOUBE: SONGS OF THE AUVERGNE
Karina Gauvin, soprano
Canadian Chamber Ensemble
Raffi Armenian, conductor
CBS Records
Joseph Cantaloube’s “Chants d’Auvergne,” published between 1923 and 1955, are among the most instantly likeable atmospheric creations of 20th century song. Usually heard with full orchestra, they are here supported by a 16-musician chamber ensemble that fully captures Canteloube’s romance with southern France’s Auvergne.
Soprano Karina Gauvin delivers gorgeous renditions distinguished by soft, heartfelt singing of the deepest intimacy. Though certainly less “folky” sounding than the classic 1963 version by soprano Netania Devrath, Gauvin’s authenticity arises from her core.
If one could wear out CDs, I’d already be on my second copy. The sonics are of demonstration quality.
……………………………………………………………..
Montserrat Caballé, Josephine Veasey
Théâtre Antique D’Orange, 1974 • Vai DVD Video
Captured in stunning voice, soprano Montserrat Caballé is in absolute command from her first note. Her “Casta Diva” is exquisite. Alternating between forte phrases devoid of bluster and breathtaking shimmering pianissimo, she fills the aria with nuance, her final highs spun out to lengths designed to drive devotees to distraction. The diva’s unequalled breath control enables her to deliver one mesmerizing phrase after another. With acting remarkably graceful and convincing, this is a once-in-a-lifetime performance.
Josephine Veasey is nearly Caballé’s match as Adalgisa.
I think Jon Vickers sounds like a cross between a used car salesman and a bully, but those who appreciate him will enjoy his portrayal of the despicable Roman consul.
Giuseppe Patane provides perfect support. The outdoor setting is thrilling, and the mono sound sufficiently doctored to satisfy. Do not miss this!
Karita Mattila, Ben Heppner
Metropolitan Opera and Chorus
James Levine, conductor
DG DVD-Video
Recorded in 2000, this performance stunned PBS audiences when broadcast earlier this year. Karita Mattila, easily our finest living Leonore, is vocally and visually stunning. Her gorgeous soprano creates a virtual catalogue of emotions, her six-foot frame surprisingly convincing when suited in male attire.
Ben Heppner’s Florestan sounds like he never experienced a vocal crisis, his tone powerful and gleaming.
The other principals––Robert Lloyd (Don Fernando), René Pape (Rocco), Matthew Polenzani (Jaquino), Falk Struckmann (Don Pizarro), and Jennifer Welch-Babidge (Marzelline)––are equally convincing, with Pape a special standout. Levine’s conducting remains a singer’s dream.
……………………………………………………………..
WAGNER: DIE WALKÜRE
Lotte Lehmann, Lauritz Melchior
Vienna Philharmonic
Bruno Walter, conductor
Two discs • Naxos
Naxos earns bouquets for bargain restorations of Caruso, Gigli, Tauber, Teyte, Melba, Schumann, and Acts I and II of this unforgettable “Walküre.” Begun in 1935 with Lotte Lehmann, Lauritz Melchior, Emanuel List, and the Vienna Philharmonic under Walter, it was finished in 1938 with other forces after Lehmann, List, and Bruno Walter had fled Germany.
The ecstatic Lehmann sings with naked intimacy, Melchior is unquestionably the greatest heldentenor on record, and Walter conducts to the manner born. Of supreme importance is Hans Hotter’s first attempt at Wotan. Act I has been on more “Top 10 Opera Recordings” lists than there are items for sale on E-bay; only Maria Callas’ Tosca and Joan Sutherland’s “Art of the Prima Donna” have received equal accolades. Search for the sonically compromised but nonetheless breathtaking recording of Act II with Lehmann, Melchior, and Kirsten Flagstad under Fritz Reiner live from San Francisco 1936 if you dare step even closer to Valhalla.
……………………………………………………………..
THE ARTISTRY OF ELLY AMELING
Five-CD set • Philips
The radiant freshness of Elly Ameling’s soprano remains unequalled to this day. Of paramount importance, this collection includes many performances never before available on CD. Selections extend from a Bach cantata recorded in 1964 (when Ameling was a fresh-voiced 31) to songs set down at the peak of her vocal and interpretive maturity.
The prize is eleven Brahms from 1977 and 19 Wolf songs from 1970, all with Dalton Baldwin. I have waited years for the Brahms. Those privileged to attend Ameling’s recent Master Class at the San Francisco Conservatory witnessed first hand her ability to spin out phrases with a caressing understatement that faithfully illuminated the text. These are available at discount price, albeit without translations.
We also publish:
