The way Lehmann sings this aria, recorded in the same year that she took on the role, (1927, the centennial of Beethoven’s death), offers one a sample of her histrionic talents, as well as her secure vocal range.
When Lehmann sings the word “liebe” (love), one hears love in the voice, and when she sings “du” (you), it is addressed to someone she loves. How sweetly she is able to color the “süssen Trost” (sweet comfort)! Her determination and courage can be heard in the way Lehmann enunciates with great precision: Ich folg’ dem innern Triebe, ich wanke nicht (I follow the inner drive, I do not waver).
And for those who have read that Lehmann had trouble with high notes, listen not just to the high B at the end, but notice the low C earlier, to enjoy the thrill that only such a range of singing can offer.
der Müden nicht erbleichen.
Erhell’ mein Ziel, sei’s noch so fern,
die Liebe, sie wird’s erreichen.
Ich folg’ dem innern Triebe,
ich wanke nicht,
mich stärkt die Pflicht
der treuen Gattenliebe.
O du, für den ich alles trug,
Könnt ich zur Stelle dringen,
wo Bosheit dich in Fesseln schlug,
und süssen Trost dir bringen!
Ich folg’ dem innern Triebe,…
star
guiding the weary vanish from sight.
Light my goal, no matter how far away,
love, will reach it (the goal…husband)
I follow my inner drive,
I do not waver;
I’m strengthened by the duty (call)
of true married love.
O you, for whom I bear all,
could I just find the place
where evil has chained you,
and bring you sweet comfort!
I follow my inner drive,…