John Smyth <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

>I'm very interested in the new SACD Gluck "Orfeo" on DG with Marc
>Minokowsi (sp), but what's the ratio of good melodies vs.  speak-singing
>with scandalized harpsichord interjections--otherwise known as recitative?
>
>Verdi's "Falstaff" is also out on LSO Live SACD with Colin Davis, (will
>we get Grimes in SACD next???), but I've read its rather 'restrained'
>Verdi--are there *any* big moments?

I have just rejoined this list.  I have been reading the archives since
having to leave the list about a year ago.  I have been wondering why
no one has responded at all to this post.  I can think of only one reason:
there are too many variables.  One cannot know for sure whether John
is asking about the operas themselves, about the performances or about
SACDs.  I myself have no intention to acquire an SACD player (I have
barely gotten used to CDs).  Obviously John has picked out two of the
greatest of operas (I am not going to attempt to define "great" or
"greatest" and maybe one should not define "opera").  As with any music
performance can bring out this greatness or hide it.  I have not heard
the Minkowski Orphee but I have heard that Croft lacks the tessitura to
make this recording of the French version as great as one would wish.
Nevertheless there is no competition but the Hobson video (not available
on DVD, only on VHS).  Hobson is extraordinary as Orphee.  The rest of
the cast and the production is not.  I would not be without the video
(I have a DVD-R transfer of the telecast).  As to Falstaff, it can be
very boring.  I last listened to Solti's recording and went into a stupor.

Cheers, Yoel
Der Bach singt voller Wohllaut durch das Dunkel.