The superb heldentenor Bernd Aldenhoff (1908-59) is the focus of this release of the premiere performance in 1956 in Munich of the opera Don Juan de Manara by Henri Tomasi (1901-71).

This is the only currently active and available complete recording of this work in the catalogue, and certainly the most important. Sung in German, what itlacks in language authenticity it makes up for in idiomatic diction, as the fine, largely German cast, led by Andre Cluytens, includes Marianne Schech and Paul Kuen, among others. Re-mastered from the original tapes, this is its first release in any format. This new 2CD set includes bonus performances of Bernd Aldenhoff singing Arias

and Scenes.

Artists

Hans Hermann Nissen (bass), Josef Metternich (baritone), Bernd Aldenhoff (tenor), Georg Wieter (bass), Max Proebstl (bass), Kieth Engen (tenor), Marianne Schech (soprano), Magda Gabory (soprano), Christel Goltz (soprano), Helena Rott (vocals), Bayerisches Staatsorchester, Chor der Bayerischen Staatsoper, Staatskapelle Dresden, Symphonie-Orchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks, MDR Sinfonieorchester, André Cluytens, Joseph Keilberth, Kurt Striegler, Rolf Kleinert, Paul Schmitz, Eugen Jochum