Strauss: Ariadne auf Naxos

Strauss: Ariadne auf Naxos

This first studio version of Ariadne, from 1954, was long considered the gold standard and has stood the test of time exceptionally well. London's Philharmonia Orchestra produces a gorgeous sound, sensitive and refined in detail. Karajan shapes an often rapturously poetic account, replete with broad and lingering tempi and an expertly calibrated sense of balance--features that likewise mark the 1956 Rosenkavalier that many count as one of the conductor's highest achievements. Irmgard Seefried confirms her status as the composer's unparalleled interpreter. Her detailed characterization confirms the rightness of Strauss's instinct to make his young idealist a travesti role. Rita Streich's uniquely styled polish and sweet purity of tone make her one of Zerbinetta's most memorable exponents, while Elisabeth Schwarzkopf's Ariadne (surprisingly, a role she never sang on stage) abounds in vocal splendor and cuts through the inherent abstractness of the character with dramatic insight. Karajan's carefully measured approach proves a trifle too deliberate for the commedia scenes, but his sense of finesse shapes a dreamlike, misty fabric (almost suggestive of Wagner's Norns) for the trio of nymphs; their chorus "TÃ¶ne, tÃ¶ne," resounds with silky translucence. Above all, Karajan establishes a credible throughline in the meandering textures of the final scene between Ariadne and Bacchus. Karajan's scope ensures that this recording is the ideal embarkation point for one of Strauss's most enchanting creations. --Thomas May
Country USA
Brand EMI CLASSICS
Manufacturer EMI Classics
Binding Audio CD
ReleaseDate 1999-09-21
UnitCount 2
Format Original recording remastered
UPCs 724356715622
EANs 0724356715622

Country	USA
Brand	EMI CLASSICS
Manufacturer	EMI Classics
Binding	Audio CD
ReleaseDate	1999-09-21
UnitCount	2
Format	Original recording remastered
UPCs	724356715622
EANs	0724356715622

Strauss: Ariadne auf Naxos

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