FRANZ SCHUBERT (1797-1828): Die Freunde von Salamanka.

Description: This work of the 18-year-old Schubert shows many of the same traits as his other early attempts at opera: beautiful lieder-like melodies and the ability to express inward emotion without exterior dramatics - which is part of the problem since opera is supposed to be dramatic. This is a full-length piece which runs 74 minutes in this 1978 live recording from the Hohenems Schubertiade and you couldn't ask for a better cast to put it in the best light. No other CD recording currently available. Libretto available on-line. Edith Mathis, Christine Weidlinger (sopranos), Thomas Moser, Eberhard Buchner (tenors), Hermann Prey (baritone), Austrian Radio Chorus and Symphony Orchestra; Theodor Guschlbauer. Original 1981 DG LP release.