Wagner: Parsifal - Høiseth, Ericson, Rundgren, Saedén, Lundborg, Nordin; Segerstam. Stockholm, 1976
Description: This performance of Parsifal features a strong Scandinavian cast and a deeply committed musical interpretation. Barbro Ericson makes a striking Kundry, her voice encompassing the dark richness of a contralto and the brilliance of a soprano. She captures both the anguish and allure of the role with vocal command and emotional complexity. Kolbjørn Høiseth brings a well-judged blend of lyricism and heroic tone to the title role, navigating Parsifal’s transformation with quiet dignity and vocal poise. Bengt Rundgren is a noble and resonant Gurnemanz, his warm bass grounding the performance with spiritual authority and gravitas. While the sound is generally serviceable, Act III contains several brief audio jumps—roughly half a second each—that may prove momentarily distracting. Even so, the overall musical and dramatic strength of the performance makes it a rewarding listen. In Mono OD 11462-4