Starting life in 1805 as Leonore (after the work’s heroine), Beethoven’s only opera underwent two revisions before returning to the stage in its final form in 1814 to considerable acclaim. It has enjoyed a regular place in the repertoire ever since, a towering example of a rescue opera. In a fine performance, its power and beauty are considerable. Bernstein’s recording was made in 1978 and is based on performances at the Vienna State Opera: It’s highly dramatic and strongly characterised. Gundula Janowitz (a wonderful Leonore) and René Kollo (an ardent Florestan) head a very strong cast.