Wagner: Die Walküre

01/09/2006
Michael Lehnert
Das Opernglas (Germany)

Also in far Australia they have forged a Ring. Importantly, Asher Fisch, former Assistant to Daniel Barenboim and currently even more in demand internationally was involved in this Adelaide project. Melba Recordings, a classical label available through Klassik Center Kassel, made a recording in November and December 2004 in the Adelaide festival Theatre of Die Walküre, and have released it on 4 CDs. It is also the Ring premiere on SACD.
 
The most prominent name on it is Lisa Gasteen … who is Brünnhilde … first-class … Stuart Skelton shows potential … impressive ... Also remarkable is how Asher Fisch never allows the dramatic structure of the opera to falter regardless of the tension or breaks and shows his experience in directing the orchestra.
 
A solid release .. and a possible case for daring to present Wagner in Australia.