Die Zauberflöte WA Mozart by H. von Karajan and Wiener Philharmoniker
The performance was made in 1950, soon after the war, and at the support of Walter Legge from EMI.
The recording was technically the best possible for 1950, and still has a warmth that is appropriate. This recording omits the dialogue, thus shortening the work, but certainly not diminuting the piece. It is a young Karajan, with a touch and warmth that few Magic Flutes since have experienced, including Karajan’s later production of the same piece. This is a valuable piece to all Zauberflöte collectors.
Kenneth A. Feucht, MD, PhD, FACS, FSSO
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