Jonas Kaufmann – Wagner (BD)

Composer: Richard Wagner
Performer: Jonas Kaufmann
Orchestra: Orchester der Deutschen Oper Berlin
Conductor: Donald Runnicles
Blu ray
Number of Discs: 1
Format: BDMV
Label: Decca
Size: 8.25 GB
Recovery: +3%
Scan: no

Die Walküre
01. Ein Schwert Verhieß Mir Der Vater (Erster Aufzug)

Siegfried (Original Version)
02. “Daß der mein Vater nicht ist…Du holdes Voglein!” (Zweiter Aufzug)

Rienzi (Original Version)
03. “Allmächt’ger Vater, blick herab” (Act 1)

Tannhäuser (Original Version)
04. “inbrunst Im Herzen” (Dritter Akt)

Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (Original Version)
05. “Am stillen Herd” (Act 1)

Lohengrin (Original Version)
06. “in Fernem Land, Unnahbar Euren Schritten” (Dritter Aufzug)

Wesendonck-Lieder
07. Der Engel
08. Stehe still
09. Im Treibhaus
10. Schmerzen
11. Träume

Jonas Kaufmann has it all – a stunningly beautiful voice that seems to have no limits to range or timbre, movie star good looks, perfect enunciation, and a brilliant actor. Though his other recorded recitals have left no doubt that he is the `real thing’, this recording devoted entirely to Wagner proves that fact even more conclusively. He is ably supported by Donald Runnicles and the Orchester der Deutschen Oper Berlin and in both the operatic excerpts and the lieder the result is polished, exciting, dramatic, and simply magnificent singing.

Though Kaufmann has established his place on the stages of the world as the definitive Wagnerian tenor in the Ring, Parsifal, and Lohengrin, here he adds arias from Tannhäuser and Rienzi – roles he has yet to assume.

Of interest Kaufmann extends the Grail Narrative from Lohengrin to include the second verse – a verse Wagner cut before the premiere and which appears on recordings for the first time here. He is a brave step for Kaufmann but it does indeed demonstrate how immersed in Wagner’s output he is. It is the most memorable version on records.

There are many unforgettable moments in this recording, not the least of which is the triumphant moment from the Siegmund scene when he pulls the sword and sings full voice the extended notes of `Wälse!’. There is such mighty power and breathtaking vocal production here that Kaufmann embodies the strength and determination and power of the young Siegmund. It is an astonishing achievement. Another memorable moment his Kaufmann’s offering of the prayer from Rienzi.

And yet for all the virile excitement Kaufmann brings to the arias from Wagner’s at times impossible operas, he draws upon in a different concept in singing the five Wesendonck Lieder – works usually intended for the female voice but here offered in the tenor range and the result is sublime. This album was especially recorded as an offering honoring Wagner’s anniversary year. It could not be a better tribute.

Kaufmanns 5th solo album on Decca – specially recorded for the Wagner anniversary year by the worlds leading Wagner tenor.

Kaufmann and Wagner is a classic combination: For any Wagnerians whove been slumbering, Fafner-like, in their caves during the last few years, heres your wake-up call: Jonas Kaufmann is the tenor we’ve been waiting for(Washington Post).

A selection of the great Heldentenor scenes and arias coupled with the complete (and rarely recorded by the tenor voice) Wesendonck Lieder. Also includes scenes from Die Walkure, Siegfried , Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Tannhauser and Lohengrin (extended Grail Scene Gralserzahlung – with its original second verse).

Joined by one of the most formidable combinations in the opera world today the chorus and orchestra of the Deutsche Oper, Berlin, under director Donald Runnicles this recording is also a sonic spectacular, made in Deccas time-honoured tradition.

Among Kaufmanns other contributions to Wagner Year will be Lohengrin at La Scala and Parsifal at The Met in February and March 2013.

From the baritonal colorings, unforced power and lyrical elegance of Mr. Kaufmanns Wagner singing on the new recording, he seems born to the [Wagner] style. –New York Times

The sheer heft and beauty of his sound, his command of legato, his ability to dial down his voice to the tenderest whisper these qualities are rare in todays Wagner tenors. –Washington Post