Werther - Jules Massenet
Information about the opera Werther by Jules Massenet, and the best recordings available on CD or DVD, or for download.
Based on Goethe's "Sorrows of Young Werther", it is generally agreed to be Massenet's masterpiece.
Synopsis
The opera describes the love triangle between Werther, Charlotte, and her reluctantly married husband Albert.
Recommended recordings on CD
Prêtre/Gedda/Angeles (EMI 562 627-2)
An excellent version, well recorded.
ORTF Girls' Choir, Orchestre de Paris, conducted by Georges Prêtre, 1968.
Cast: Nicolai Gedda (Werther), Victoria de los Angeles (Charlotte), Roger Soyer (Albert), Mady Mesplé (Sophie).
EMI 562 627-2
Jurowski/Baer/Kasarova (RCA 74321 58224-2)
An outstanding performance makes this the clear first choice.
Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Berlin Boys Choir, conducted by Vladimir Jurowski, 1998.
Cast: Frank Baer (Werther), Vesselina Kasarova (Charlotte), Christopher Schaldenbrand (Albert), Dawn Kotowski (Sophie).
RCA 74321 58224-2
Recommended recordings on DVD
Jordan/Alvarez/Garanca (Arthaus Musik 107 141)
This production updates the story to the 1950s, but features a superb performance by Marcelo Alvarez as Werther.
Vienna State Opera Chorus, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, conducted by Philippe Jordan.
Cast: Marcelo Alvarez (Werther), Elina Garanca (Charlotte), Adrian Eröd (Albert), Ileana Tonca (Sophie).
Arthaus Musik 107 141
Also included in the boxed set:
Magic Moments of Opera