Search - Denis Dowling, Leslie Fyson, Neilson Taylor :: Léhar: The Land of Smiles; The Merry Widow; The Count of Luxembourg (Highlights)

Arguably "The Best" English "Merry Widow "

John Boland | USA | 09/12/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the "Merry Widow" with English translation by Christopher Hassel sung by June Bronhill. I loved this rendition ever since I first heard it in about 1960. What's to love? First the translation is the best I've heard. The language doesn't sound "stilted" as some others. And, you can understand almost every word sung. Plus, the famous song, "Vilja" has some wording that moves me every time I hear it: The soprano sings, "Love me and I'll DIE for you!" with the word "die" somewhat emphasized. I don't know, there's just something "powerful" about someone saying they'd "die" for love! AND, at the end of "Vilja" the chorus and soprano raise to a crescendo hitting a high note together. In many renditions the chorus is heard but not the soprano on the final high note. In THIS version, the soprano, June Bronhill, can be heard rising to the final high note with an incressing crescendo and fortissimo louder than the chorus and holding the final high note---which gives a very thrilling effect as she holds that final note, I assure you!



The "problem" is that this June Bronhill, Reid, and Hassel version is hard to find on CD. For example, this CD is made in Holland and "there is one left" so it says on Amazon. But, if you can find it, I think it would be very much worth a listen. Then, after hearing it, if you think there's a "better" Merry Widow, please let ME know! Thanks. Email:boland7214@aol."

Food for the Soul if You Love Lehar

David | Houston, Texas, USA | 07/13/2008

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I had fallen in love with the music of Lehar many years ago courtesy of an LP record from Reader's Digest. After getting rid of most of my LP's I went for several years just remembering his beautiful music. I decided to check Amazon for some of his music and found this CD.



I am happy to report that it provides a reasonably satisfying source of some of his beautiful melodies. The recordings were made in 1958, 1959, and 1969; their sound is acceptable but not up to contemporary standards. In spite of this they provide access to some musical beauty that warms the heart of any lover of Lehar's music.



If one were to compare Lehar with Strauss, Lehar would likely come in a close second; Lehar, however generated some of the most beautiful musical melodies ever written.



This is not a definitive collection, but it is a worthwhile addition to the library of anyone who appreciates Lehar. In fact it served as a catalyst for me to start buying some of Lehar's music on DVD.



I'm glad I have it in my collection."