A valuable second choice
Rudy Avila | 12/29/1999
(3 out of 5 stars)
"This performance of Die Fledermaus is no doubt beautifully performed, especially Fassbaenders aria is a jewel. However, the atmosphere is somehow cool and artificial, Te Kanawa and Gruberova have difficulties with the operetta setting of the plot. Previn does not serve the "champagne", his conducting is somehow a little too operatic. If you like to have a second version of the "bat" in your collection, choose this one or the live performance of the Vienna Volksoper in Japan (Denon). If you only need one version, the choice second to none is the Carlos Kleiber version with Varady / Prey - even if it was only for the quality of the orchestral interpretation (although assigning the role of the prince to a basso singing falsetto - Ivan Rebroff - is a question of taste)."
This is a magnificent rendering of a classic operetta
Rudy Avila | 09/29/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Die Fledermaus has appeared in many forms. This particular CD has much to recommend it. The sound is superb, the performers well chosen, and the presentation flawless. I would recommend this version over all others."
This bat can fly!
Mr John Haueisen | WORTHINGTON, OHIO United States | 04/01/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a collection of highlights, not the entire operetta. The first five reviews I've read had mixed reactions, but all seemed pleased with this performance.I found Edita Gruberova's Adele superlative. Just to hear her sing "Spiel' ich die Unschuld vom Lande," is worth the price of the CD. In the "Laughing Song" (Mein Herr Marquis), she smoothly, yet precisely, sings each note, unlike so many sopranos who seem to bark the laughs. Only Janet Perry approaches Gruberova in the quality of singing in this role. For me, Kiri Te Kanawa practically owns the role of Rosalinde. Few can equal her in any of the arias. You'll believe she's really Hungarian.Overall, I think you'll find this a beautifully-performed, spirited Fledermaus, where all the performers seem to be having a very good time."