"I have to completely agree with the previous reviewer. This is my favorite opera, bar none. I have several recordings. When I purchased this recording, I had listened to this opera 100's of times, and I heard new things here. And, I still continue to hear new things here everytime I listen to it.The subtilities in the score of this opera are absolutely astounding, but rarely heard. However, they briliantly shine in this recording. I try to ignore the main melody and listen to the wonderful world of orchestral texture and brilliance that lies beneath it. The stars of this recording are definitely Muti & the Vienna Philharmonic. There is no recording in my collection that compares with these two elements. The Vienna Philharmonic showcases here why it is completely unchallanged as the world's greatest orchestra. The playing is crisp, emotional, brilliant, and fresh. Every nuance can be completely heard, and it is all perfectly developed. The energy with which they play this score is unparalled. Perfection. Sheer perfection!Muti's conducting is wonderful as well. I love many other sets, but sometimes feel the conducting is sluggish at moments when the comedy should be more slapstick- particuarily Bohm, Solti, and Guilini in the 2nd Act Finales. Muti's speeds seem perfect.Yes, the cast on here is not as wonderful as those of Solti, Bohm, or Giulini but they are certainly more than adequate and Price's reading of the Countess is glorious. I prefer Allen in the role of the Count (on Solti) but his Figaro is fine. Battle's Susanna is wonderful, although I do prefer Moffo (Giulini). There are many great recordings of this opera - but if you want to hear a glorious score played like non other on record - this is the recording for you.This is the Figaro I listen to most because the conducting and orchestral playing are simply in a class of their own.Enjoy!"
Fun mozart recording with the magical kathleen battle
montserratblackmaddona | gastonia, NC USA | 08/18/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I loved this recording.The sound quality was superb.Kathleen battle sings in this marriage of figero as if mozart picked her out for the part himself.There are many other great singers to listen to,also.Buy it and wear out you cd player.Long live OPERA!!!"
Track Listings (26) - Disc #1