And why has that recording come from the Lyons Opera, of all faraway places for this most American of American folk operas?

"Happily, Mozart is now done everywhere," said Louis Erlo, the director of the Lyons Opera, who has also run the Aix festival since 1982.

No period instruments here: The orchestra is that of the Lyons Opera, which Mr. Gardiner organized and directed from 1982 until last October.

He returned to France in 1963 to make his debut at the Lyons Opera as Valentin in Gounod's "Faust."

The Lyons Opera opens its season with Wagner's "Flying Dutchman" on Nov. 6.

True, the audience responded warmly to the piece at the Lyons Opera on Friday, when it began a nine-performance run that ends on Sunday.

The Philips recording, although made in the studio, is based on stagings at the Lyons Opera last year.

Others complain about his high salary (he is also co-director of the Lyons Opera).

As part of an annual spring Festival of the Regions, the Ballet of the Lyons Opera will also perform two different programs here next May.

Karine Saporta staged Lully's "Phaeton" as part of the ceremonies opening the new Lyons Opera in May.