I post this because whenever I recommend to anyone the Queen of Night, I always recommend it in the Lucia Popp rendition. It's a matter of personal taste, but what I love about this is that it is somewhat slower than the other versions and as a result, it would seem to me somewhat more difficult to perform and sustain--those high notes in which the Queen's voice becomes the Magic Flute itself are rounded, full, and deep while remaining light and airy. I have read some rather severe criticism of this ritardando; and while it may or may not reflect Mozart's intent, it is certainly within the options for staging. It creates a real vocal showpiece from what is already a magnificent example of same. It really is an amazing example of a virtuoso composition sung by a virtuoso voice. All of which should not be taken to mean that I do not truly appreciate the version posted earlier by Diana Damrau, it's just nice to see what a difference tempo can make. I think we can take
Steven, if I were to recommend half a dozen books written in the last twenty five years that everyone must read, McCarthy's BLOOD MERIDIAN would certainly be included in that limited list. So, what are you waiting for now? Read it! And then tell me what you think.
ReplyDeleteDear RT,
ReplyDeleteI've started it several times and found it not to my taste--but I tend to be a very moody reader. So, how 'bout this--I'll pick up Blood Meridian when you pick up Ulysses! I know, you're embarking on Bleak House (another I need to revisit) shortly, but surely you can fit Ulysses into a gap somewhere in your book list?
I will be picking up Blood Meridian soon--but I have several books of short stories I need to get through first--most importantly The Streams of Affection, but also Pastoralia and perhaps Wells Tower's opus d'annee.
shalom,
Steven
Let me know when you begin BLOOD MERIDIAN. That will be my provocation to begin (and complete?) ULYSSES. Deal?
ReplyDeleteDear RT,
ReplyDeleteAbsolutement!
shalom,
Steven