Der Freischütz

Sir Colin Davis conducts the London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and a stellar cast of soloists in a concert performance of Weber's eerily fantastical opera, 'Der Freischütz'. 'Der Freischütz' is heralded as one of the cornerstones of Romantic opera, drawing on traditional German folk tunes and elements of Romanticism for the first time in the history of opera. The evocative and colourful orchestration is particularly impressive in the ''Wolf's Glen' scene: often considered the most gruesomely expressive rendering of evil to be found in a musical score! All three main soloists are well established on LSO Live: Opera News declared the Verdi Requiem (LSO00683), featuring Christine Brewer, as 'one of the finest recordings the work has ever received'. Sally Matthews, who has performed regularly with Sir Colin Davis, was praised in her role in Haydn's 'Creation' (LSO0628). Simon O'Neill's previous appearance on the label, in the title role of Verdi's 'Otello' (LSO0700) saw much critical acclaim, and confirmation that 'he is the best heroic tenor to emerge over the last decade' The Telegraph.