The great Flagstad, aged 63,in semi-retirement,went into the Kingsway Hall,London in 1956--7 to record Religious Pieces.
This piece is astonishing and seamless in it's delivery.
Many say Flagstad was the greatest Wagnerian dramatic soprano of the 20th century, perhaps of all time.
Her international recognition came late in life---1935 at the Metropolitan Opera House,New York.
She had been 'discovered' in 1935, at Bayreuth aged 40 by a Metropolitan singer who was astounded on first hearing her sing. Flagstad had rushed from Norway to Bayreuth when the lead soprano fell ill.
MESSIAH. George Frederick Handel.
The KINGSWAY HALL was a religious place of worship,and favoured by many recording companies for it's splendid acoustics.
Callas,Victoria de los Angeles,Schwarzkopf and Kathleen Ferrier(her last), to name but a few, made many recordings here,when a large orchestral /vocal ensemble was required to the highest standard.
On some of the Kingsway recordings the rumble from the Piccadilly Line underground can be heard!
This recording is in early stereo. Remarkable voice, in her 63rd.year!!
PHOTOS:----
Kirsten Flagstad.
Kingsway Hall during recording sessions.
George Frederick Handel,composer.
Decca have these Kingsway Hall recordings parcelled in with other Flagstad pieces in a two CD box.
However the Kingsway Hall recordings are available on a single CD from on-line sites (used) ----'Kirsten Flagstad. Great Sacred Songs.'
Enjoy.