Autumn Journey

German baritone Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau's career spanned nearly half a century (1948-1992) and encompassed opera, lieder, and oratorios, as well as compositions ranging from the baroque to the contemporary (featured on numerous recordings). Bruno Monsaingeon's Autumn Journey (1995), filmed shortly after the singer announced his retirement, is a biographical appreciation, primarily consisting of Fischer-Dieskau's recollections about his life and career, as well as observations on the profession (with English voiceover translation), amply illustrated with excerpts from televised performances, films, and his own private archive, along with footage of his more recent work mentoring his wife (soprano Julia Varady), leading master's classes with voice students, and serving as an orchestra conductor. Throughout, Fischer-Dieskau is articulate, engaging, and expressive, offering insights gleaned from a lifetime of training and performance along with heartfelt gratitude to the singers, conductors, and pianists with whom he worked (some of whom, in turn, are on hand to express their admiration for him). Particularly enlightening for musicians, but sure to fascinate all lovers of masterful singing, Autumn Journey is supplemented by a bonus recital of 23 Schubert songs, in which Fischer-Dieskau is accompanied by pianist Hartmut Höll, presented in Dolby Digital stereo. Taped late in his career, the recital doesn't showcase Fischer-Dieskau's voice in its prime, but the singer's deep understanding of the music is evident in every bar. A fine testimonial to one of the 20th century's greatest vocal artists, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)