TRISTAN UND ISOLDE

Chorus and Orchestra of the Metropolitan Opera (13 March 1940)

Melchior, Flagstad, Thorborg, Huehn, Kipnis / Leinsdorf

This memorable performance, a benefit for the Metropolitan Opera Fund, offers the greatest box office sensation of the era — Melchior and Flagstad in their world-famed portrayals of the lovers that an ill-starred fate could not keep apart. With the equally renowned Kerstin Thorborg as Brangaene, the tender Kurvenal of Julius Huehn and the immense stature and vocal beauty of Alexander Kipnis as King Marke (replacing Emanuel List), this is an unforgettable performance. Some noisy sides do not deduct from the recording´s good sound. Also included is the broadcast commentary and pandemonious ovations for each of the singers, as well as a touching intermission program about Act II of Tristan. Guild´s lavish booklet offers extensive articles about the singers, the performance, the composer and the work as well as a detailed and illustrated synopsis plus biographies of the artists. Taken together, the whole of it recreates this historic occasion with enthralling vividity. Another shining ray from the Golden Age of Wagner at the Met.