Search - Lehar, Reid, Sadler's Wells Opera Company :: Merry Widow

Best English Version

John Boland | USA | 06/06/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the BEST English version extant. There are newer versions....but they are much inferior. The translation, by Christopher Hassel, is superb as is the singing by June Bronhill, soprano. Just one example is at the end of the beautiful song, "Vilja". In the newer version the soprano's voice is lost as the chorus sings at the end; in THIS version the soprano can be heard singing a high note OVER the chorus at the end---the effect is quite thrilling! Please spend the money and take a chance on THIS version. Enjoy! Email:boland7214@aol.

ADDITION: The above CD is no longer available. The one that is available with June Bronhill and the translation of Christopher Hassel as of 9/2006 is this one: "Léhar: The Land of Smiles; The Merry Widow; The Count of Luxembourg (Highlights)" It is an import from Holland and there is "one left". Good luck in buying a copy. Let me know how you like it .Email:boland7214@aol.



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