Meyerbeer, long considered one of the greatest of operatic composers, is being rediscovered. His first music drama was Jephtas Gelübde, based on the biblical story of Jephthah and his rash vow of sacrifice. The musical language is varied in expression, with an exceptionally advanced use of leitmotif and a subtle depiction of psychological process, all revealing a powerful command of material. Marches and dances of radically different moods, allied to choruses of folk-like simplicity and grandiose power, are part of a mature score in which intense monologues and gripping ensembles embody music of lyricism, drama and rapture.

This was previously available as a digital-only release on 970332: ‘Another recording of historical significance from the seemingly endless treasures of lesser known grand operas is given here by a young and promising cast under the baton of Dario Salvi.’ (The Light Music Society)

Cast:
- Jephta: Sönke Tams Freier (bass-baritone)
- Sulima: Andrea Chudak (soprano)
- Tirza: Ziazan (mezzo-soprano)
- Asmavett: Marcus Elsäßer (tenor)
- Abdon: Laurence Kalaidjian (baritone)
- A Tribal Leader: Ivaylo Yanev (narrator)
- A Childhood Friend: Caroline Bruker (narrator)