Fritz Wunderlich - Donizetti: Don Pasquale (Live) (2020)

This CD contains a recording made during a performance at the Prinzregenten-Theater in Munich on 18 January 1962 - conducted by Rudolf Hartmann and - as was customary at the time - in German. The original analogue tapes were kept by the Fritz Wunderlich Society in Kusel (Rhineland-Palatinate) and restored by Techne Audio in Baden-Württemberg. Some specialists suspect that the photographs were taken by Fritz Wunderlich himself, a great researcher of the latest technology. Despite the extensive and careful restoration of the tapes, some defects and disturbing artifacts are clearly audible on the partially damaged mono tapes. However, the historical significance of this recording justifies its publication. No wonder that Fritz Wunderlich (1930-1966) received the greatest attention in the role of Ernesto. Probably the greatest tenor in Germany knew how to do this: to nurture the lovesick bachelor, as he did with all his roles, and to breathe life into the character with his inimitable voice. In addition to the lyrical qualities, however, the role requires other skills such as the canto fiorito style of ornate singing of the 19th century.