Rafael Kubelík, a symphonic specialist and self-exiled from Czechoslovakia after the communist takeover in 1948, was a surprising choice for Musical Director at Covent Garden.
Historical Context
The Covent Garden Opera Company's first performance was on January 14, 1947, marking the beginning of a decade of significant achievements.
Interpretation
Covent Garden Opera's policy at the time was to perform in English, but the 1955 production of Verdi's Otello was sung in Italian with an international cast.
Performer Biography
Karl Rankl, Covent Garden's first Musical Director, is remembered more for his determination in building the ensemble from scratch than for his conducting.
Recording & Production
This collection features twelve performances, half of which are from the second half of the 1950s, a period when the theatre gained international recognition.
Historical Context
A full-time opera company at Covent Garden was established only after World War II, with a manifesto in 1945 aiming to make it an independent international opera house.
