In 1959, West German Radio in Cologne (WDR) recorded a live performance of Alcina with two of the most exciting young singers of the day, both called in as replacements at the last minute. This was the only time that Joan Sutherland and Fritz Wunderlich sang together. The resulting recording – exceptional in its vocal virtuosity and style of performance – is now being released officially for the first time: an exceptional première for Handel Year 2009.

This is an “authentic” performance, with the Cappella Coloniensis (founded by August Wenzinger) conducted by the 45-year-old Ferdinand Leitner playing original instruments.

Other members of the distinguished cast include Norma Procter (Bradamante) and Thomas Hemsley (Melisso) , with Dutch diva Jeannette van Dijck in the role of Morgana and Italian tenor Nicola Monti as Oronte

Alcina, one of Handel’s greatest “magic” operas based on Ariosto, is performed here in a reduced version that conveniently fits onto two CDs. Thanks especially to the artistry of Sutherland and Wunderlich, the full power of the opera comes through.

CD booklet includes specially-commissioned article by Thomas Voigt that tells the story of the performance, synopsis, libretto in Italian, English and German, and rare photos from WDR archives and the Wunderlich Family Archive.

“A distinguished performance with distinguished interpreters, truly worthy of Handel” Kölner Rheinzeitung (1959)