Gluck: Iphigenie en Tauride (Iphigenia in Tauris)
The most popular opera ofGluckmight beOrfeo ed Euridice, but this  one,Iphigénie en Tauride, is probably his most dramatically  involving. It is about familial love and deep friendship and, as such, lacks the  usual "love" music and interest. But the waters here run deep, andMartin  Pearlmanand his singers plumb those depths.Christine  Goerke's Iphigénie is dignified, rich with expression and beautiful  tone. Almost no less good is the Orestes ofRodney Gilfry, who uses his high  baritone with intelligence and ease, singing tenderly when needed and  explosively at other times.Vinson Colebrings grainy, expressive tenor to  the role of Pylades firmly and effectively; and Stephen Salters, as the  villainous Thaos, might sing coarsely, but it suits the character. Pearlman gets  vivid, exciting playing from his period-instrumentBoston  Baroqueand, on the second CD, offers a 28-minute, music-illustrated lecture  after the close of the opera. The sound is luxurious and clear, and the singers'  diction is superb. This set is a wonderful surprise--highly recommended.--Robert Levine