Mozart: The Magic Flute (1996)

Wolfgang Sawallisch's 1973 Die Zauberflöte is a fully satisfying version of the opera; it features superb soloists and exemplary playing and singing by the orchestra and chorus of the Bavarian State Opera. All of the performers very clearly have this music in their blood and are absolutely convincing in putting it across. Sawallisch has both the light touch to keep the comedy always afloat, and the gravity to make the serious moments fully persuasive. The entire cast, in fact, seems to have the same sure instincts so that ... Read More

Wolfgang Sawallisch's 1973 Die Zauberflöte is a fully satisfying version of the opera; it features superb soloists and exemplary playing and singing by the orchestra and chorus of the Bavarian State Opera. All of the performers very clearly have this music in their blood and are absolutely convincing in putting it across. Sawallisch has both the light touch to keep the comedy always afloat, and the gravity to make the serious moments fully persuasive. The entire cast, in fact, seems to have the same sure instincts so that the comedy is never leaden or overdone and the drama is never trivial. Vocally, almost all of the soloists turn in stellar performances. Edda Moser's voice is not large, but she is entirely regal, nonetheless, and her crystalline tone, perfect intonation, and astonishing coloratura make her Queen of the Night truly memorable. Peter Schreier has just the right boyish impetuosity for Tamino and his voice is clear and focused, and he has plenty of power when it's called for. Walter Berry... Read Less