I agree with Woodduck. I would add Massenet and Tchaikovsky as those who wrote masterful overtures that match the overall quality of their operas (Prokofiev too I'm inclining to include). As far as great or effective overtures, but not so great operas are concerned, some people (or critics) would point out Lalo's "Le Roi d'Ys", although I find the opera quite underrated. Magnard's "Guercœur" has a very arresting overture, although the opera itself is banal and meandering in places.
Overtures in Relation to Their Operas
Sometimes, an overture is much better than the opera it is in front of. Other times, it will be representative of the opera or even worse than the rest of the opera.
What are some examples that stand out to you of either a major disparity in quality between the overture and entire opera or times when both are exquisite?
What are some examples that stand out to you of either a major disparity in quality between the overture and entire opera or times when both are exquisite?
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Sawallisch's Orfeo recording is often highly regarded.Ah, yes. I have to admit, though, that I've never heard the whole opera, and I don't think we have a good recording yet or someone would be recommending it. I wonder how it would come across with truly great singers?
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