Backhaus - Nilsson - Knappertbusch In Concert Live Viena May 31st. 1962 - Hans Knappertsbusch

Experience the timeless mastery of Hans Knappertsbusch in this captivating live concert recording from May 31, 1962, at the Theater an der Wien in Vienna. This album, released by Lantower Records, features the legendary conductor leading the Vienna Philharmonic in a stunning performance that showcases the brilliance of Wilhelm Backhaus on piano and the powerful vocals of Birgit Nilsson.

The concert begins with a restored version of Beethoven's "Overture Leonore III in C major, Op. 72b," followed by a breathtaking rendition of Beethoven's "Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major, Op. 58." The album also includes exquisite selections from Wagner's "Tristan und Isolde," featuring the iconic "Prelude" and the dramatic "Morte d'Amore."

Recorded during the Vienna Festival, this live performance captures the essence of a historic evening, now meticulously restored and remastered for 2023. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, offering a rich and immersive experience of classical music at its finest. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hans Knappertsbusch or a newcomer to his work, this album is a treasure trove of musical excellence that belongs in any classical music enthusiast's collection.

Hans Knappertsbusch, born in 1888, was a German conductor renowned for his profound interpretations of the music of Richard Wagner, Anton Bruckner, and Richard Strauss. His conducting style was marked by a distinctive gravitas and spaciousness, making his performances of Wagner's operas, such as "Die Walküre" and "Götterdämmerung," particularly celebrated. Knappertsbusch's career spanned some of the most prestigious opera houses in Europe, including Munich and Vienna, and he was a frequent conductor at the Bayreuth Festival. Despite being dismissed by the Nazis in 1936, he continued his freelance work, conducting in Vienna, Bayreuth, and London. His legacy endures through his influential recordings and his unique public persona, which continues to inspire both musicians and audiences alike.