Wagner: Der fliegende Holländer (Bayreuth, 1985) — Conducted by Woldemar Nelsson
Immerse yourself in the captivating nuances of Richard Wagner’s iconic opera, "Der fliegende Holländer," masterfully conducted by the renowned maestro, Woldemar Nelsson. This performance, which took place in Bayreuth in 1985, remains a study of artistic finesse and musical ingenuity.
About Woldemar Nelsson
Woldemar Nelsson (1938–2006) was a Russian-born conductor who became internationally recognized after his emigration to West Germany in the late 1970s. Coming from a musical family in Kyiv, Nelsson trained as a violinist and played with the Novosibirsk Symphony Orchestra before studying conducting in Novosibirsk, Moscow, and Leningrad. After gaining early recognition—winning a major Moscow conducting competition in 1971—he worked as assistant and conductor under Kirill Kondrashin at the Moscow Philharmonic, collaborating with leading Soviet artists and composers.
Nelsson left the Soviet Union in 1976 and soon built a promising career in Western Europe. His Bayreuth Festival tenure (1980–1985) brought him particular acclaim, especially for his interpretations of Wagner. In addition to his work in Bayreuth, he was General Music Director at the State Theatre in Kassel (1980–87) and premiered significant works such as Penderecki’s Der schwarze Maske at the Salzburg Festival in 1986.
Significance of the 1985 Bayreuth Production
The 1985 Bayreuth Der fliegende Holländer production stands out both for Harry Kupfer’s innovative stage direction and Nelsson’s dynamic musical leadership. Nelsson’s approach to Wagner was praised for its clarity, energy, and sensitivity to dramatic pacing. The cast featured internationally acclaimed singers, including Simon Estes as the Dutchman and Lisbeth Balslev as Senta, supported by the renowned Bayreuth Festival ensembles.
Woldemar Nelsson, alongside the visionary director Harry Kupfer, breathes life into Wagner’s masterpiece, showcasing his adept understanding of the assemblage of dramatic and lyrical content. Their collaboration has given rise to one of the most riveting experiences in the history of opera, combining powerful theatrical portrayals with an extraordinary musical narrative.
The star-studded cast includes Simon Estes, Lisbeth Balslev, Matti Salminen, and Robert Schunk, each delivering electrifying performances that complement Nelsson's brilliant conducting. Their individual deliveries coalesce into an emotive and melodramatic masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences globally.
Graham Clark and Anny Schlemm, along with the outstanding Bayreuth Festival Chorus and the Orchester der Bayreuther Festspiele, further elevate the performance, adding depth and texture to the musical landscape skilfully painted by Woldemar Nelsson.
Newcomers will be welcomed by the harmonious fusion of drama and music, while seasoned opera enthusiasts will appreciate the finesse and subtlety inherent in Nelsson's conducting. Experience the magic of opera and the genius of Woldemar Nelsson — a performance that is, undeniably, a cornerstone of classical music.