Opera

A recording of power and presence, but with some really disfiguring cuts to the music [MP]

Callas’ stereo studio Medea gets the Pristine XR treatment [PT]

An important album. One which may surprise those who admire this tenor’s Mozart recordings [MP]

On balance, still the best of Callas’ recordings of Lucia di Lammermoor [RMo]

The most authentically French recording of Carmen from the stereo era [MP]

Sign me up for this regiment: this recording is as good as it gets [MP]

This will bring much pleasure to lovers of French Baroque [SG]

A most welcome recording of a neglected opera [EJW]

An interesting and unhackneyed programme of operetta arias, with a soprano who possibly divides opinion [PT]

(Déjà Review) A reminder of all the strengths of this cruelly-underrated conductor/composer. Certainly, this is a major addition to the Strauss discography [CC]

This remains a powerful experience 49 years after its initial release [MP]

A significant addition to the Boult discography [SG]

An exciting, red-blooded performance, captured live in the clearest sound of any available version [MP]

The staging will divide opinion, but watch, listen, and let the performers convince you [WH]

A feast of stylish bel canto singing for the two stars but the rest of the cast can only struggle though [MP]

The original version of Mascagni’s masterpiece unfortunately let down by singing that cannot do justice to the music or drama [MBu]

A near total success that still wins the day among available recordings [MP]

(Déjà Review) This set wins hands down [JP]

There are better choices on CD and on video [GF]

Massenet’s opera is superbly rejuvenated in a recording which sweeps the field of all other versions [MP]

Melodious, undemanding but always skilful and enjoyable light music [RMo]

Anyone contemplating purchase of this set will be buying it for Maria Callas, and it is worthwhile for this alone [JP]

by Ralph Moore

A dazzling achievement all around [MP]