This recording marks a significant event in the Hyperion catalogue. Not only is Frank Martin’s wonderful three-act opera Der Sturm the first full-length live opera recording on the Hyperion label, it is also a rarely staged important twentieth century masterpiece.

Based on Shakespeare’s The Tempest, this groundbreaking performance was given by the impressive Netherlands Radio Philharmonic under the baton of Thierry Fischer. The orchestra unfailingly matches the energy and passion of the performers on stage who make up an impressive cast. Robert Holl conveys a magisterial Prospero, Simon O’Neill is Ferdinand, Dennis Wilgenhof is Caliban, Christine Buffle sings Miranda and James Gilchrist makes an appearance as Antonio.

Written towards the end of his life, and taking almost three years to complete, Der Sturm emerges as one of Martin’s most inventive works. The composer has synthesized all his experience in order to do full justice to the shimmering facets of the original play. This rare opportunity to hear the full opera in its original language is not to be missed.