Composer: Richard Wagner
Works: Parsifal – Act 2 (complete) and finale Act 3
Performers: Lauritz Melchior (tenor), Kirsten Flagstad (soprano), Arnold Gabor (baritone), Herbert Janssen (baritone), Vocal Ensemble and Orchestra of the Metropolitan Opera, New York, Erich Leinsdorf (conductor)
Recording: Recorded live on 15 April 1938
Label: GUILD HISTORICAL 2201
Richard Wagner’s “Parsifal,” a profound exploration of redemption and compassion steeped in mysticism, holds a unique place in the operatic canon, encapsulating the late Romantic ethos with its complex characters and rich orchestral textures. This 1938 recording of Act 2 and the finale of Act 3, featuring a cast of extraordinary vocal talent, offers listeners an invaluable glimpse into a golden era of Wagnerian performance, marked by the iconic voices of Lauritz Melchior and Kirsten Flagstad.
The interpretation of both Melchior as Parsifal and Flagstad as Kundry stands out in this recording, as they embody the contrasting natures of their characters with remarkable depth. Melchior’s tenor, with its heroic timbre, rises above orchestral textures with an electrifying authority, particularly evident in the pivotal moment of “Amfortas! Die Wunde,” where his nuanced delivery encapsulates the anguish and awakening of the title character. Flagstad, on the other hand, brings an ethereal quality to Kundry, her voice a kaleidoscope of emotional color that shifts from seduction to maternal tenderness. The interplay between these two singers is not merely a vocal duel; it is a profound dialogue that captures the transformative journey of each character. Their interpretative choices reflect a deep understanding of Wagner’s intentions, allowing the audience to experience the emotional gravity inherent in the score.
Erich Leinsdorf’s conducting, despite his relative youth at the time, is marked by a dramatic intensity that propels the narrative forward. His ability to balance the lush orchestration with the vocal lines reveals a keen sensitivity to Wagner’s intricate textures. The orchestral sound, while occasionally marred by the limitations of the recording technology of the era, retains a solid foundation that supports the singers brilliantly. The decision not to overly edit the recording allows for the authentic sound of the performance to shine through, albeit with the inevitable imperfections of live music, such as clicks and stage noises. These elements, rather than detracting from the experience, enhance its historical significance, providing a palpable sense of the live performance’s energy.
The recording’s engineering captures the vocal prowess of Melchior and Flagstad exceptionally well, with their voices projected forward, almost as if they are engaging directly with the listener. The richness of Flagstad’s voice, perfect in pitch and diction, soars effortlessly above the orchestral accompaniment, while Melchior’s robust heldentenor delivers moments of breathtaking resonance. Comparatively, this recording holds its own against other historical performances, such as those by the legendary conductors Toscanini and Furtwängler, though it remains distinct in its unique combination of cast and the specific context of the Met during the 1930s.
The historical significance of this recording cannot be overstated; it serves not only as a testament to the artistry of its performers but also as a document of an era when Wagner’s works were brought to life by some of the most illustrious voices in operatic history. The discovery and restoration of this recording by Richard Caniell and his team is a labor of love that allows contemporary audiences to appreciate the artistry of Melchior and Flagstad in a performance that is both remarkable and moving.
Overall, this release is a treasure for Wagnerians and newcomers alike, capturing the essence of an operatic tradition that, while rooted in the past, continues to resonate with profound relevance today. The combination of stellar performances, historical context, and careful restoration makes this recording an essential addition to any serious collection of Wagner’s oeuvre.
