Don Pasquale (Schenk ; Levine) (2010)

"Don Pasquale was Donizettis last comedy and its a funny, sometimes subtle work, with finely drawn characters. Otto Schenks production was new in 2006 and proved a grand showcase for Anna Netrebko and Marius Kwiecien, both of whom were on hand for the 2010 revival, which has been recorded here. Schenk is a well-known comic actor in his native Vienna and his timing is that of a pro; luckily his cast is at one with his outlook. Rolf Langenfass is responsible for sets and costumes, and theyre just fine. From the first, wonderfully raucous notes of the overture, its clear that conductor James Levine has the measure of this often witty, occasionally ravishing scorethe mad ensembles are as terrific as the dreamy duet Tornami a dir is beautiful. And the Met Chorus and Orchestra live up to their great reputations. This beats any of the DVD competition." (Classics Today; cijfer: 8 voor uitvoering; 10 voor geluidskwaliteit)