Weber: Der Freischütz

BBC Radio 3 CD Review’s Disc of the Week
‘Davis and the cast are absolutely bewitching in the dark magic of the Wolf’s Glen scene.’

Performance: **** Recording: ***** ‘The orchestral textures are pristine, the tempos and colours bracing and plaintive, with faultless work from clarinettist Chris Richards.’
BBC Music Magazine

***** ‘One of the marvels of [Davis’] old age was the vitality he continued to bring to his music-making, combined with the wisdom of experience. Both are in evidence here, reinforcing Der Freischütz’s reputation as one of the most tuneful and psychologically profound operas in the repertoire.’
Financial Times

**** 'A thoroughly useful recording.'
The Times

**** ‘[Davis’] account of Weber’s score captures both its folkish ebullience and the Gothic horrors of the Wolf’s Glen scene.’
The Times

‘A moving testament to the late Sir Colin Davis, as well as a thrilling performance in its own right.’
The Observer

‘This release is a fitting tribute for a conductor who knew precisely what he wanted in terms of expression and colour, and who was blessed by having an orchestra – the LSO (of which he had been both Principal Conductor and President) – that could deliver it.’
Classical Source

‘Weber at his most ingenious and Davis’ performance captures the music’s ominous and magical allure.’
New York Times