Wagner: Der Fliegende Holländer

Talvela, Martti; Adam, Theo; Burmeister, Annelies; Klemperer, Otto; New Philharmonia Orchestra; Silja, Anja; MacDonald, Kenneth; King, James; BBC Chorus

There are a variety of recordings of Wagner’s “Dutchman,” but this 1968 recording, directed by Klemperer and recorded on the BBC, is qualitatively still at the top of the discography. The conductor’s analytical, powerful gaze on the work meets the vocal qualities of Theo Adam and James King. This recording is not identical to the production that Klemperer had recorded for EMI- this is the Dresden version of 1843, which differs in particular from the other editions during its dramatic conclusion. Otto Klemperer was a conductor who was steeped in the tradition of great German music. He was particularly influenced by Gustav Mahler, and regularly conducted his works, even after his physical health had led him away from conducting frequently. His renditions are marked by their major dramatic strength, as is evidenced on the present release.

Price: $42.98