Der Ring Des Nibelungen;

This 1953 first of two Bayreuth Ring cycles, led by Joseph Keilberth, marked the first time Hans Hotter sang all three Wotans; he is in stupendous form. Also for the first time at Bayreuth, Martha Moedl sings Bruennhilde; she too is at her finest. This was also the first year Wolfgang Windgassen sang Siegfried, a role he owned for at least the next 15 years. This cycle (and the later one under Clemens Krauss) established the major figures for the next 5 years. No more satisfactory Ring cast has been assembled since, indeed none that can touch it. This release is a fitting tribute to its lasting greatness.