Wagner: Der fliegende Holländer - Greindl, Kniplová, Beirer; Maazel. Tokyo, 1966

Description: Lorin Maazel ignites a storm from the very first bars in this electrifying performance of Der fliegende Holländer, recorded during the Deutsche Oper Berlin’s 1966 tour of Japan. He conducts with unrelenting energy, propelling the score forward with gale-force momentum, while reserving restraint only for the opera’s most introspective moments. Even the Act III party scene—so often a ponderous stretch—is tightly paced, culminating in a chilling, otherworldly climax as the Dutchman’s crew joins in from offstage. Regrettably, the cast does not always match the fire from the pit. Josef Greindl, typically a reliable and intelligent performer, is caught on an off day, his once-imposing bass sounding worn and frayed. Hans Beirer’s Erik is vocally tired and dramatically unconvincing. Nadedza Knipalová has power to spare as Senta, but her struggles with pitch undermine her dramatic impact. The most satisfying performances come from Peter Lagger, who brings a sly, venal charm to Da