Strauss: Elektra - Thielmann, Munich Philharmonic (DVD)

Linda Watson (Elektra); Jane Henschel (Klytämnestra); Manuela Uhl (Chrysothemis); René Kollo (Aegisth); Albert Dohmen (Orest);

Conducted by Christian Thielemann, this performance was the sensation of the 2010 Baden-Baden Festival. A one-act masterpiece inspired by Greek mythology, it is a dense, jagged cry for justice and vengeance. With its powerfully expressive chords, spooky waltz rhythms and mad dance of triumph, it shakes the audience to the core. Herbert Wernicke's legendary production for the Bayerische Staatsoper stands out for its clear lines, classical structural elements and striking colour contrasts. Linda Watson, one of the great Wagnerian sopranos of today, superbly masters her role debut as Elektra, one of operas most demanding roles.

Reviews
"Never do Christian Thielemann and the Munich Philharmonic overwhelm the singers: they make chamber music, in effect, with no bombast whatever." (International Record Review)

Extra features
Cast gallery.