This production of Parsifal was recorded live at the Zurich Opera House in March, 2007. It was hailed by the press as one of the finest Wagner performances in recent years, thanks in part to Bernard Haitink"s gripping presence in the pit The production by Hans Hollmann is austere in conception; Hans Hoffer"s understated designs use geometric shapes and blocks of color to emphasize the juxtapositions at the heart of Wagner"s mystical opera--light versus dark, good versus evil. The effect is beautiful and simple, focusing attention on the music The excellent international cast of leading Wagnerian singers is headed by Christopher Ventris in the title role and also features Yvonne Naef as a sensuous Kundry. Matti Salminen, a stalwart at international opera houses including the Metropolitan Opera where he continues to sing major Wagnerian roles, was highly acclaimed by the press for his powerful, touching portrayal of the aging Gurnemanz.