Wagner: Tristan und Isolde
Herbert von Karajan, Berliner Philharmoniker, Helga Dernesch, Jon Vickers
Available as
Finally available again on digital platforms, this version of Tristan und Isolde is one of the greatest operas ever recorded. John Vickers was undoubtedly one of the finest Wagnerians of his generation, and his pairing with Helga Dernesch on stage is perhaps the most moving in the entire discography. The rest of the cast featuring Christa Ludwig and Walter Berry is equally impressive. Karajan's sense of drama and the richness of his orchestra at the height of its artistry make this recording an absolute must-have.