Commanding Götterdämmerung brings Müpa's Ring to a blazing end

Ádam Fischer and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment bring new light and life to Bruckner's most imposing cathedral in sound. 

Sometimes the programme just feels right: a dramatic cantata by Haydn, a “pantomime grotesque” by Bartók and Mahler's Fourth Symphony. Colour and contrasts galore from soloist, conductor and orchestra.

A sense of marvel and joy permeates this New Year's Day performance of Haydn's oratorio at Müpa, Budapest. 

The pure magic of Ádám Fischer and the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra delights with two brilliant leads, but others disappoint on the second day of Müpa's Ring.

With his impish grin, the Hungarian conductor revels in Mahler's “heavenly” Fourth Symphony as clothed in refreshing period instrument colours. 

Sven-Eric Bechtolf's staging holds a balance between philosophy and humour, but Adam Fischer's vivacious conducting is the real star of the evening.