Carl Nielsen's vivid comedy opera Maskarade has enjoyed a natural status as Denmark's national opera since its first performance at the Royal Danish Opera in 1906. On this recording, Nielsen expert Michael Schønwandt leads a sparkling cast of todays finest Nielsen singers and the Danish National Symphony through the operas delightful yet stirring comedy plot. Recorded in the ideal acoustic of DR Koncerthuset, this is the first studio recording of Nielsens much-loved opera in the 21st c., appropriately released to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Danish composers birth. Of Mr. Schønwandts 2007 live DVD performance: This performance featuring the finest Danish soloists, musicians, and conductor is unbeatable. (ClassicsToday) and Michael Schønwandt is bursting with vitality and in total command of his forces (Intl Record Review)
