In this his last opera recording, the late Sir Colin Davis conducts the London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and a stellar cast of soloists in a concert performance of Weber’s eerily fantastical opera, Der Freischütz.

LSO Live LS 0726

Weber: Der Freischütz – Christine Brewer, Sally Matthews, Simon O’Neill, Lars Woldt, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis

Weber’s eerily fantastical Der Freischütz is hailed as one of the cornerstones of romantic opera, being the first in operatic history to draw on traditional German folk tunes and elements of romanticism. The evocative and colourful orchestration of the ‘Wolf’s Glen’ scene, the most gruesomely expressive rendering of evil ever found in a musical score, is particularly impressive. Much of the music is instantly familiar: several of the melodies have been adapted as hymn tunes, and the Overture is regularly heard in the concert hall.

‘One of the marvels of [Davis’s] old age was the vitality he continued to bring to his music-making, combined with the wisdom of experience. Both are in evidence here, reinforcing Der Freischütz’s reputation as one of the most tuneful and psychologically profound operas in the repertoire.’

***** The Financial Times