Korngold was just 23 when his most celebrated stage work was premiered in 1920 by no less than Otto Klemperer. The rich orchestration and brilliant bel canto vocal writing is here superbly realised by a cast led by Klaus Florian Vogt and Camilla Nylund, with “conducting to die for” (The Guardian ★★★★★) from Mikko Franck.

Please note that the audio for this release has been extracted from the filmed, live performance of Die tote Stadt, previously release by Opus Arte (catalogue number OA1121D).

“…sheer orchestral seductiveness… undoubtedly a musical triumph” – Gramophone

“I regard Die tote Stadt as one of the greatest operas of the first quarter of the 20th century and the Finnish National Opera’s production makes it stand out as a true masterpiece, scenically and musically.” – Seen and Heard International

“Korngold’s music is marvellous throughout. Vogt ... has, besides the required stamina, also the beauty of tone and the ringing top notes to allow him to ride over the orchestra. His youthful timbre and intelligent phrasing made him the most consummate Paul I have heard, whether live or on a recording. I hope some record company has grabbed the opportunity to record this production, since Vogt was not alone in vocal brilliance.” – Seen and Heard International

Cast:
- Paul: Klaus Florian Vogt
- Marietta / Voice of Marie: Camilla Nylund
- Frank / Fritz: Markus Eiche
- Brigitta: Sari Nordqvist
- Juliette: Kaisa Ranta
- Lucienne: Melis Jaatinen
- Victorin: Per-Håkan Precht
- Count Albert: Juha Riihimäki
- Gaston: Antti Nieminen
- Marie (silent role): Kirsti Valve