Massenet : Thérèse. Gubisch, Altinoglu.

   in Opera Now (Dec, 2013)
Recorded in 2012 in Montpellier, this concert performance is a highly welcome addition to the catalogue. Alan Altinoglu conducts a passionate, if occasionally hard- driven, account of Massenet’s late work. The piece is uneven, but if you’re interested in Massenet this is a must-have – a rare work given an excellent performance. If you’re not so sure then be warned: despite its exciting French Revolution setting, Therese does not possess the blood and thunder thrills of Andrea Chenier. Yet it’s a worthwhile piece with a great title role for a mezzo, one that I’m sure more divas would relish given the occasion. Nora Gubisch seizes her opportunities with aplomb. Hers is …