Wagner: The Meistersinger of Nuremberg

H.L. Mencken once said that Die Meistersinger was the greatest single work of art in Western civilization, despite his disdain for some of the sillier aspects of grand opera. To many, his hyperbole is forgivable when one contemplates the well-crafted structure of this most human of Wagner's music dramas. This recording, conducted by Karajan in his prime, has perhaps the best-balanced cast of all recordings of Wagner's sole comedy.

Donath's clear, youthful tones in the role of Eva must be close to Wagner's ideal for the character, and Adam's portrayal of Sachs is compassionate, although not quite as resonant as one might wish. Kollo's impetuous style is fitting for the love-struck Walther. The orchestral playing has the clarity and transparency that is the trademark of Karajan's approach, perhaps most suitable in Wagner's happiest work.

--Christian C. Rix

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