Mozart: Idomeneo, K. 366

Mozart first revealed his extraordinary ability in opera with this work, transforming a wooden libretto into a truly engaging and human drama. Yet Idomeneo’s traditional formula of recitative and show arias has posed a challenge to even several of the greatest conductors. But thanks to a superb cast and the excellent and highly expressive Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Simon Rattle triumphs in this live recording. Soprano Sabine Devieilhe as the young captive princess sets the tone with clear emotional engagement with her character, and with Magdalena Kožená her handsome suitor it soon becomes clear that this is a winning production. And that’s even before tenor Andrew Staples makes his noble first appearance as the troubled monarch of the title role.