Wagner: Rienzi | Richard Wagner, Heinrich Hollreiser, ...

classical music: Wagner: Rienzi | Richard Wagner, Heinrich Hollreiser, ...

classical music:

Wagner: Rienzi

	Wagner: Rienzi Richard Wagner, Heinrich Hollreiser, ... EMI Classics, 1999 average customer review:based on 11 reviews view larger image
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highly recommended

Good recording of problematic opera

It is a shame that there are so few recordings available of this very interesting but very problematic opera. This was Wagner's breakthrough work, which premiered in the Saxon Hofoper in Dresden on October 20, 1842. Despite lasting over six hours, it was a great success. However, the problem of cuts has dogged this opera ever since. Since the only complete copy of the opera (Wagner's manuscript) was lost during WWII, it is no longer possible today to perform the opera as Wagner wrote it; but we must be satisfied with abridged versions of the work which have survived. I own a previous release of this EMI recording. It omits even more of the music, some of which yet survives, apparently basing itself on the first engraved score which was published in 1844. Although on the one hand, cuts appear necessary to bring the time of the performance down to reasonable lengths, they impair the effectiveness of the opera, which was designed to make an impression precisely with its large scale. Wagner composed for a large orchestra: he included several large marches, an extensive ballet, and other "set pieces," all in an obvious attempt to emulate (and outdo) the grandiose and sumptuous style of French Grand Opera. The audience was to be overwhelmed by the vast scenic display of mounted armies and religious processions, as well as the aggressive, forceful, repetitive, and LOUD nature of the music. It is difficult to really appreciate this work without having some acquaintance with its background, and the original intent of Wagner; however, given these drawbacks, this recording is a worthwhile purchase for any Wagnerite or fan of early nineteenth century opera. The reading of Irene by Siv Wennberg is particularly impressive, especially the moving fifth act scene in which her brother, the eponymous hero of the work, implores her to save herself from the mob who will bring about his impending fall. I hope for more complete recordings in the future; but for now a recording which I would recommend.

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reviews: 1, 2, page 3

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