Search - Mozart, Gedda, Norman :: Idomeneo

Mozart's First Bonafide Classic Opera

A Minstrel in the Gallery | Portsmouth, New Hampshire USA | 03/01/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Long neglected by the music world, Idomeneo is now recognized by many experts to be Mozart's first operatic masterpiece, most recently by David Cairns in his insightful new book "Mozart and His Operas". After Idomeneo was first performed in Munich on January 29, 1781, it did not catch on and was eventually forgotten, partly because of changing tastes towards opera seria. But after listening to this energetic live interpretation conducted by Sir Colin Davis, it's difficult to understand why! The opera tells the story of Idomeneo, the King of Crete, who after surviving a shipwreck, must sacrifice his son as a tribute to the Greek god Neptune. The tragic relationship between Idomeneo and Idamante has often been viewed as a reflection of Mozart's strained relationship with his own father Leopold at the time. Although the accoustics aren't perfect on this recording, you can really get a sense of what it must have been like to witness the debut of this remarkable opera in the theatre more than two centuries ago. Nicolai Gedda is really terrific as Idomeneo, and the haunting aria "Padre, germani, addio" is really powerful. This three-disc set offers a first-rate performance for a low price, and should be required listening for anyone interested in Mozart's operas."

A Real Treat

Christopher H. Filipowicz | Chicago, IL | 10/01/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I first bought this recording because my school was putting this opera on and I wanted to hear all the choral numbers, because I was in the chorus. I was never really happy with it before, but looking back on it and listening again, I actually really liked the music. Jessye Norman is in fine form on this recording, and the part of Idamante sits well in her range. Heather Harper is an enchanting Ilia, and Gedda sings "Fuor del Mar" with all the rage of a foamy sea. The sound quality isn't too bad either. Sometimes it moves a little slower than one would think it should, but the music is good for people really into Mozart."

A very good Idomeneo

K. Sun | USA | 11/03/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Gedda did extremely well for the Idomeneo role. Jessye Norman was very good for Idamante as well. The sound quality is good considering it is a live version. If you like Nicolai Gedda, this is one of his good recordings."