Performer: Michelle Breedt

A strong cast, a lyrically simmering orchestra and lucid staging make this a Tristan und Isolde to treasure.

What distinguishes Noseda's Tristan most of all is especial balance in the orchestra and a transparency of sound that reveals the inner-workings of the music.

Given the spate of visually distracting, if not irksome productions which seem to blight the opera world these days, there is something to be said for concert performances.