Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg

Despite his disdain for some of the sillier aspects of grand opera, H.L. Mencken once said that Die Meistersinger was the greatest single work of art of western civilization--and to many, his hyperbole is forgivable when one contemplates the well-crafted structure of this most human of Wagner's music dramas. Of all recordings of Wagner's sole comedy, this one under the baton of Karajan at his prime has perhaps the best-balanced cast. The clear, youthful tones of Donath in the role of Eva must be close to Wagner's ideal for the role, while Adam makes a compassionate Sachs--though not quite as resonant as one would wish. Kollo's impetuous style is appropriate to the character of the lovestruck Walther. The orchestral playing has the clarity and transparency that is the trademark of the Karajan style, perhaps most appropriate in this, Wagner's happiest work. --Christian C. Rix