R. Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier, Op. 59

Elisabeth Schwarzkopf was one of the greatest German lyric sopranos of the 20th century. Her voice, with its rose-gold timbre and glowing lyricism, could cover as wide an emotional range as her chosen repertoire demanded, and its purity, nuance and precision were suited exceptionally well to the music of Mozart and Richard Strauss. One of her best-loved roles was that of the Marschallin in Strauss’ Der Rosenkavalier, a rounded and complex character whose regret at the passing of time is beautifully conveyed. She sets the scene perfectly at the opera’s start, and as we follow her emotional journey, you can’t help but be dazzled by Strauss’ music and Schwarzkopf’s interpretation. This classic recording from 1956 features an all-star cast alongside her, including Christa Ludwig as Octavian, Teresa Stich-Randall as Sophie and Otto Edelmann as Baron Ochs. Herbert von Karajan conducts the Philharmonia Orchestra, an ensemble at the height of its powers. An essential listen for any Strauss enthusiast.