Parsifal - Wagner [2002] (NTSC)

Customer Reviews:

A "Parsifal" without magic.......2005-04-01

I've owned this performance for some years, firstly on video and then on DVD, and have always found it a disappointment, especially in comparison to Levine's marvellous "Ring" and outsanding "Meistersinger" from the NY Metropolitan Opera. From the prelude to Act 1 the music seems to drag, and key moments do not come to life. The Klingsor's kingdom lacks its otherworldly quality here, and the Good Friday Music does not bring its usual magic. This lack of passion transmits itself to the singers and chorus and seems to last throughout the opera.

A number of critics have blamed Levine's slow tempos for the malaise. I don't think this is the explanation. For example, although the prelude to Act 1 lasts 14 minutes here compared to 12 minutes for Knappertsbusch in his 1962 performance, Karajan also takes 14 minutes over the prelude and makes it seem exactly the right length. Moreover, when there is fast music, such as Parsifal's shooting of the swan in Act 1, I still don't feel any emotion in this performance. The orchestral playing just doesn't come to life.

One might assume that Levine lacks sympathy for "Parsifal". However, Levine has made two audio recordings in addition to this DVD version, which suggests that it is a favourite work for him.

With regard to other aspects of the performance, the staging is a bit gloomy, but at least the producer hasn't distorted Wagner's intentions. In addition to this, the presence of Waltraud Meier as Kundry and a general professionalism results in a 2 star rating for this DVD.

With regard to the competition, Karajan's audio version is excellent, full of passion and mystery. I also have the 1962 Knappertsbusch performance, but I don't find myself drawn to this version. On DVD, the choice is limited. Nagano's new Baden-Baden performance appears to have a greater charge in the music despite some perversity in the staging at certain points. It is probably a first choice until something better comes along, perhaps Horst Stein's 1980s version from Bayreuth.

A Wonderful Production.......2003-12-28

Produced by the same team which produced the wonderful Der Ring Des Nibelungen in New York. Its a very fine production which is what to be expected from the maestros of the New York Metropolitan Opera. Wagner's final opera can be an ordeal to sit through at times due to its enormous length and subject matter. But if you are a die-hard Wagnerian it wont matter because this is a must see. Siegfried Jerusalem sings his part as Parsifal with much style and emotion. Veteran singer Kurt Moll is a very fine Gurnemanz indeed. But the star of the opera is the lovely Waltraud Meier who brings much passion to the difficult role of Kundry. Overall, the production cannot be really faulted. James Levine, as always conducts the New York Met Orchestra with his professionalism and style. However, it cannot really match the intensity of the famous Knappersbutsch Bayreuth 1962 recording which is still available on CD. Still, am sure any Wagnerian will welcome this addition to the ever growing DVD Opera catalogue. One thing though which needs to be mentioned; make sure your scart lead is in RGB socket on your television and that the RGB connection is on at setup in the DVD Menu page, otherwise picture will be in black and white and look grainy.

Average customer rating:

Dreams finally do come True for a DVD :-))

A superb DVD...possibly the best music DVD so far released!

Dreams Can Come True: Greatest Hits Vol. 1[2001]
Starring: Gabrielle
Manufacturer: Universal Island
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00005V9SL
Release Date: 2002-02-11

Customer Reviews:

Dreams finally do come True for a DVD :-)).......2006-04-20

WOW this Dvd is Great with all her Biggest Greatest Hits ever, I love the music thats been selected on this Dvd, If you are a Gabrielle fan this is a Must have for any fan or anyone...

A superb DVD...possibly the best music DVD so far released!.......2002-02-08

All the hits, all original videos, great track access menus, surround audio, long interview extra feature. I even found a film trailer lurking behind a mystery button! Me & my mates loved it...I'm sure you will too.

Average customer rating:

The song remains the same...again

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Led Zeppelin
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: HD DVD

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Release Date: 2007-11-26

Customer Reviews:

The song remains the same...again.......2007-11-24

The original was blistering, especially on the big screen, and with dolby stereo. Jimmy's solo on No Quarter is by far his best live solo - ever. His guitar just talks to you and says some gorgeous things. The new DVD has new renditions of songs from different nights, but, heh, Led Zeppelin.....part of the soundtrack to my life!

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