"There proves to be scarcely an inferior page in the whole work [...] and much of the writing is absolutely delicious." (Gramophone) So strongly associated with Otto Nicolai is Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor that often people are surprised when they discover that this was not the composer's only work. Its overture is a firm international favourite that is often heard in concert halls all over the world. The work is typical of the German Singspiel, but also shows a strong influence of the Italian style of opera of the era. Recorded in Berlin in 1976, this set is special firstly for uniting performers from both Eastern and Western Germany. It was also the first complete recording of the opera, containing all dialogue and narration as well as the musical numbers. Mathis is "captivating" as Miss Ford, and "the opera's trio envoi for the three women is a gem of dovetailing, florid lines", while Moll's interpretation of Falstaff is "perfection" (Gramophone). Other information: - The first complete recording of the opera, including the spoken dialogues. - A true Classic, showered with international record prizes, from the rich archives of Berlin Classics. - "This performance is well out of the ordinary -- one that I can scarcely wait to play again" (Gramophone). - A dream cast of singers from both West and East Germany for this 1976 recording of Nicolai's ever popular opera Die Lustigen Weiber von Windsor: Edith Mathis, Helen Donath, Hanna Schwartz, Kurt Moll, Peter Schreier, Bernd Weikl... - Delicious orchestral support, brimming with wit and esprit, from the Staatskapelle Berlin conducted by Bernhard Klee. - Contains liner note and plot synopsis.