Description

Wagner - Die Walküre: Act I - Wiener Festwochen 1963 | DVD

UPC: 824121001711

Product Features

Composer: Richard Wagner
Conductor: Hans Knappertsbusch
Orchestra: Wiener Philharmoniker
Starring:Performance: Recorded live at the Theater an der Wien, 21 May 1963
- Claire Watson as Sieglinde
- Fritz Uhl as Siegmund
- Josef Greindl as Hunding
Running Time: 72 minutes
Audio Format: LPCM Mono
Picture Format: 4:3 NTSC
Region Code: 0 (Worldwide)
Subtitles: English, French, Italian, Spanish
Liner Notes: English, German, French
Publisher: TDK

Overview

This historic recording from the Wiener Festwochen 1963 captures the powerful first act of Richard Wagner’s Die Walküre, conducted by the legendary Hans Knappertsbusch. Featuring a remarkable cast, including Claire Watson as Sieglinde, Fritz Uhl as Siegmund, and Josef Greindl as Hunding, this performance is an electrifying start to Wagner's monumental Ring Cycle.

Set in the tense world of the Ring des Nibelungen, Act I of Die Walküre introduces us to Siegmund and Sieglinde, siblings unknowingly reunited, whose love ignites in the face of peril. The performances in this recording are lauded for their intensity and emotional depth. Knappertsbusch, renowned for his Wagner interpretations, brings a sense of grandeur and poignancy to the performance, perfectly supported by the Wiener Philharmoniker.

This DVD is a treasure for lovers of Wagner’s operas and classical music enthusiasts alike, offering a rare glimpse into one of the most celebrated performances of the 20th century, now available in remastered mono sound and enhanced video.

Interesting Facts

Hans Knappertsbusch was one of the most respected conductors of Wagner’s music in the 20th century, known for his slow tempos and profound interpretations.
Die Walküre is the second opera in Wagner's Ring Cycle and is often considered one of his greatest works, particularly the dramatic and emotional first act.
The Wiener Philharmoniker has a long-standing tradition of performing Wagner's works, known for their exceptional technique and deep understanding of his music.
The performance took place during the Wiener Festwochen in 1963, a prestigious cultural festival held in Vienna.
Claire Watson and Fritz Uhl were highly regarded for their vocal performances in this opera, with Watson's Sieglinde being noted for its emotional vulnerability.