Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg
Despite his disdain for some of the sillier aspects of grand opera, H.L. Mencken once said thatDie Meistersingerwas the greatest single work of art in Western civilization--and, to many, his hyperbole is forgivable when one contemplates the well-crafted structure of this most human of Wagner's music dramas. Of all recordings of his sole comedy, this one under the baton of Karajan in his prime has perhaps the best-balanced cast. The clear, youthful tones of Donath in the role of Eva must be close to Wagner's ideal for the role, while Adam makes a compassionate Sachs--though not quite as resonant as one would wish. Kollo's impetuous style is appropriate to the character of the love-struck Walther. The orchestral playing has the clarity and transparency that is the trademark of the Karajan approach, perhaps most appropriate in this, Wagner's happiest work.--Christian C. Rix