Search - Mozart, Janowitz, Fassbaender :: Mozart: Così Fan Tutte [Germany]

An excellent live recording

M. Mclain | VA | 11/12/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There are two things that are not listed on the information of this page that make this an absolutely essential recording. First of all, the director is Karl Bohm, arguably the greatest Mozart conductor of the 20th century. Also this recording is essential because it is live, and as with every recording of the great Bohm, it is always best live. The overture has an almost Beethovian force, and the performance is both fiery and delicate, often at the same time. Prey, Schreier, Fassbaender and Janowitz are a regular team with Bohm, and they make for a wonderful ensemble here.



The sound quality is excellent. It was recorded in the 70's at the Salzburger Festspiele, and the result is a very dynamic, clear and never distorted sound. The Vienna Phil plays wonderfully and with great force.



Of course this recording will always be overshadowed by the earlier Angel release, featuring arguably better soloists. This recording has three things to commend itself over the earlier--the Vienna Phil, a very cohesive vocal ensemble, and the dynamic live atmosphere of the Salzburger. I highly recommend this recording, not just as a companion to the earlier Bohm recording, but also as a first choice for those exploring Mozart's other great operas."