Massnet: Werther

Massenet's great melodic gifts are not always matched by dramatic intensity, but in Werther there is plenty of both. The story is more melancholy and subtle than Massenet's more famous Manon, but his melodic inspiration here is fully apposite. This live performance marks the return of Rolando Villazón to the Covent Garden stage after a long absence due to vocal difficulties. While his voice is not quite a free as before, Villazón throws himself into the name part with a bewitching combination of abandon and sublety. Especially memorable is the contribution of Antonio Pappano. The conductor gives the music an Italianate warmth and passion that enriches this quintessentially French score. deutschegrammo phon.com/villazon-wertherCOLMAN MORRISSEY