Gustav Neidlinger was a revered German bass-baritone known for his signature portrayals of the dark and complex characters in the operas of Richard Wagner. Born on March 21, 1910, in Mainz, Neidlinger's career flourished particularly in the mid-20th century, where he became an indelible part of the Wagnerian opera tradition. His powerful voice and astute acting abilities established him as one of the leading interpreters of villainous roles, most notably that of Alberich in Wagner's "Der Ring des Nibelungen," a character he played to great acclaim in many of the most esteemed opera houses and festivals, including the Bayreuth Festival.

Renowned for his musicality and depth of interpretation, Neidlinger's performances continue to be celebrated through an extensive discography of live and studio recordings. His participation in landmark recordings under the baton of legendary conductors like Wilhelm Furtwängler and Georg Solti has cemented his legacy as a quintessential voice of Wagnerian repertoire. Even after his passing on December 26, 1991, Neidlinger's contributions to classical music endure, with numerous remastered releases ensuring that new generations of opera enthusiasts can experience his unparalleled artistry in works like "Tristan und Isolde," "Das Rheingold," and "Götterdämmerung." His formidable presence and dark vocal timbre remain a benchmark for the bass-baritone fach and a touchstone for Wagnerian interpretation.

Genres

Classical Bass

Wagnerian Singing

Latest Release

Wagner: Siegfried, WWV 86C (Live)

Richard Wagner•

Martha Mödl•

Wolfgang Windgassen•

Hans Hotter•

Gustav Neidlinger•

Josef Greindl•

Bayreuth Festival Orchestra

Album - 55 Tracks - Released July 5, 2024