A Wozzeck for the ages!!!

[Chuck Jackson]

It is spring break here in Sin City and I have time to catch up on recordings that I have yet to listen to. The wife is out at the gym, so I decided to crank up a recording of Wozzeck on the Sony Opera House Label. All I can say is:


Holy Crap!!!!!!!!!!


On this recording is the Paris Opera conducted by Pierre Boulez from 1966!!! Yes, the year is correct. I can't begin to tell you how stupendous this recording is. Every detail is crystal clear, the orchestral playing is nothing short of amazing, and the low brass in particular KILLS EVERYTHING IN SIGHT. The tuba playing is fat and heavy without losing a bit of the agility needed to play this incredibly hard part. Real kudos go to the Bass/Contrabass trombone player who has more agility than a trumpet player and plays every note that descends into the sub-contra range as clear as a bell. I am in shock. I have to wonder who the tuba player is. I think this may have been a year or two before Mel Culbertson took Paris by storm.

I actually bought the recording because Walter Berry sings the title role, Berry being one of the unsung hero's of the baritone voice, who along with his contemporary tenor John Vickers, may be two of the best voices that never got the praise afforded Pavarotti and the other "bellowers". Little did I know that this would be one of the incredible finds of the new decade. Oh yeah, the stage band solo is not to be missed.

Every facet of this recording makes it a "must have". The nice part: you can get it on Amazon for @ $12. No kidding, cheaper if you want to buy used. No libretto, but a nice synopsis

This is a sonic feast for the ears, incredibly well played, conducted, and sung.

Alban Berg "Wozzeck" The Paris Opera/Boulez The Sony Opera House 88697446192

Happy Listening,

Chuck

[Mojo workin']

Thanks, Chuck. A piece I have yet to fully explore. Please tell us who the tubist is if you find out.