Otto Klemperer - Beethoven: Missa Solemnis - Japan SACD Hybrid Digipak Limited Edition

Credits:

Otto Klemperer

Description:

Klemperer’s EMI recording of the “Missa Solemnis”—renowned as the definitive performance—has been reissued! This true masterpiece, which evokes overwhelming emotion, has been newly remastered from the original analog master tapes specifically for this release. Includes new liner notes This is Klemperer’s definitive interpretation of the “Missa Solemnis,” a work he performed frequently from early in his career. Recorded in September and October 1965, this album is a true masterpiece that ranks among the highest-rated recordings alongside his historic series of Beethoven symphonies and overtures for EMI. In addition to the grand scale characteristic of his later years, the performance—with its austere yet majestic sound—is simply exquisite. Klemperer’s insight, combined with the orchestra’s rich expressiveness—born of a deep exploration of the music—further elevates the album’s perfection. Though it has long reigned as a classic, we have now re-engineered the sound quality using the original master tapes from the UK. We present this reissue, featuring the latest mastering as the definitive version of the package. For this release, we used a master digitized at 192kHz/24bit from the original German analog master tapes, and mastered the SACD and CD layers separately. Includes new liner notes and a song-by-song translation. A must-have for your permanent collection. This is truly the definitive recording of the "Missa Solemnis," a work in which Klemperer excelled! While opinions may vary regarding his various recordings of Beethoven’s symphonies, this 1965 stereo recording of the "Missa Solemnis" commands an overwhelming presence. As the definitive recording of this work, it has long been supported by listeners worldwide and has even won the French ADF Disc Grand Prix. This performance—woven together by the sound of the orchestra arranged in a face-to-face formation, a highly polished choir that had undergone extensive rehearsals, and a cast of outstanding soloists—seems to have gained even greater artistic value thanks to Klemperer’s exceptional leadership. Combined with the original work’s high level of perfection, this is arguably one of the most substantial recordings Klemperer left behind at EMI. The large number of recording sessions—not limited to this particular project—is one of the hallmarks of Klemperer’s work at EMI. These meticulously prepared sessions speak to Klemperer’s uncompromising philosophy and the high priority placed on record production at the time. In that sense, since we have been left with recordings of such high quality that will endure for future generations, what is most sought after is a reissue that, using the latest technology, evokes the atmosphere and ambience of that era. With this in mind, we have approached this reissue from a musical perspective. Please look forward to this reissue, which stands apart from previous releases. (1/2)