Lauritz Melchior: Art of Heldentenor in Opera and Song: Volume 1 & 2

The voice of Danish tenor Lauritz Melchior (1890-1973) has come to be regarded as the standard by which all other Wagnerian tenors are judged. 'Without him we would have a limited notion how well Wagner's tenor roles can sound,' wrote J.B. Steane about this Danish singer who singularly defined the category heldentenor (the type of heroic tenor voice needed to sing Wagner's most demanding tenor roles). Astounding vocal power and stamina, beauty and evenness of tone, accuracy of intonation, perfect legato: these are the qualities which come together in Lauritz Melchior, as in no other tenor before or since. In addition, he possessed a robust sense of humor and unique personal charm which endeared him to a large and diverse public. This program devoted to Melchior's appearances on the Voice of Firestone further reveals the tenor as a consummate artist and a thoroughly engaging personality.