STRAUSS, J. - JR - - Fledermaus/Zigeurerbaron (Sealed) (LP)

Herbert von Karajan was among the most famous conductors of all time -- a man whose talent and autocratic bearing lifted him to a position of unprecedented dominance in European musical circles. This is recorded in 1959 and 1960 with the Wiener Philharmoniker. Johann Strauss has provided for this ditty music that literally sparkles and scintillates, lavish melodies of the utmost beauty – many of which are introduced in the masterful overture. The Viennese waltz and polka rhythms make the whole score dance and in a good performance one should feel the champers, sense the floor swaying and the delirium of joy. Apart from some misgivings concerning a couple of the minor parts this is among the best casts assembled for a Fledermaus recording and they more than compensate for what lack of warmth there may be in Karajan’s virtuoso conducting.