Einem: Der Besuch der alten Dame

Experience the gripping and intense world of Gottfried von Einem's "Der Besuch der alten Dame," a powerful opera that brings Friedrich Dürrenmatt's tragicomic play to life. This three-act opera, composed between 1968 and 1970, is a masterful collaboration between von Einem and Dürrenmatt, who penned the libretto himself, ensuring a faithful adaptation of his original work.

The story revolves around Claire Zachanassian, a wealthy woman who returns to her hometown of Güllen, seeking revenge on those who wronged her decades ago. The opera is renowned for its dramatic tension and profound exploration of themes such as justice, morality, and the consequences of past actions. Von Einem's score is both haunting and evocative, perfectly complementing Dürrenmatt's sharp and witty dialogue.

This album captures a live performance of the opera, offering an immersive experience with its rich orchestration and powerful vocal performances. The production, recorded in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, provides an enveloping audio experience that brings the opera's dramatic moments to life. The duration of the opera is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, divided into 36 tracks that include numerous interludes and scenes, each contributing to the opera's narrative depth.

"Der Besuch der alten Dame" is a testament to Gottfried von Einem's compositional prowess and his ability to translate complex literary works into compelling musical dramas. This recording, released by Orfeo on March 16, 2018, is a valuable addition to any opera enthusiast's collection, offering a rare opportunity to experience this lesser-known but highly impactful work.