Iestyn Davies presents a captivating collection of arias in his album, 'Arias for Guadagni: The First Modern Castrato', released on 25 May 2012 under the esteemed Hyperion label. This exquisite compilation, spanning 1 hour and 18 minutes, showcases Davies' remarkable vocal prowess as he breathes new life into the works of renowned composers.
The album is a masterful blend of opera and choral pieces, featuring an array of compositions from the likes of Handel, including 'Saul', 'Theodora', and 'Belshazzar'. Davies' expressive voice navigates the complexities of these arias with ease, bringing to the forefront the emotional depth and nuance of each character. From the poignant 'O Lord, Whose Mercies Numberless' to the dramatic 'Destructive War, Thy Limits Know', his performances are nothing short of breathtaking.
The tracklist also includes works by other notable composers, such as Johann Christian Bach and Christoph Willibald Gluck, adding to the album's rich musical tapestry. Davies' interpretation of Gluck's 'Orfeo ed Euridice' is particularly noteworthy, as he conveys the sorrow and longing of Orfeo's arias with haunting beauty.
Throughout the album, Iestyn Davies demonstrates his remarkable technical skill and artistic sensitivity, making 'Arias for Guadagni: The First Modern Castrato' a must-listen for fans of opera and classical music. With its diverse selection of arias and Davies' exceptional performances, this album is a testament to the timeless appeal of Baroque music and a celebration of the castrato voice.
Theodora, HWV 68, Act I: No. 9, Aria. The Raptur'd Soul (Didymus)George Frideric Handel, Iestyn Davies, Arcangelo, Jonathan Cohen
The Choice of Hercules, HWV 69: No. 15, Air. Yet, Can I Hear That Dulcet Lay (Hercules)George Frideric Handel, Arcangelo, Iestyn Davies, Jonathan Cohen
Belshazzar, HWV 61, Act III: Aria. Destructive War, Thy Limits Know (Cyrus)George Frideric Handel, Jonathan Cohen, Arcangelo, Iestyn Davies
Didone abbandonata, Act I: No. 19a, Accompagnato. Ah che dissi! (Enea)Johann Adolf Hasse, Jonathan Cohen, Iestyn Davies, Arcangelo
Didone abbandonata, Act I: No. 19b, Aria. Se resto sul lido (Enea)Johann Adolf Hasse, Jonathan Cohen, Arcangelo, Iestyn Davies
Didone abbandonata, Act III: No. 8a, Fanfare & Recit. Odi colà la frigia tromba? (Enea)Johann Adolf Hasse, Iestyn Davies, Arcangelo, Jonathan Cohen
Didone abbandonata, Act III: No. 8b, Aria. A trionfar mi chiama (Enea)Johann Adolf Hasse, Jonathan Cohen, Arcangelo, Iestyn Davies
The Fairies: Air. Say, Lovely Dream!John Christopher Smith, Jonathan Cohen, Iestyn Davies, Arcangelo
Alfred, Act II: Aria. Vengeance, O Come Inspire Me!Thomas Arne, Iestyn Davies, Jonathan Cohen, Arcangelo
Sinfonia in D Major, H. 663: I. Allegro di moltoCarl Philipp Emanuel Bach, Jonathan Cohen, Arcangelo
Sinfonia in D Major, H. 663: II. LargoCarl Philipp Emanuel Bach, Jonathan Cohen, Arcangelo
Sinfonia in D Major, H. 663: III. PrestoCarl Philipp Emanuel Bach, Arcangelo, Jonathan Cohen
Telemaco, Wq. 34, Act II: Aria. Ah! non turbi il mio riposo (Telemaco)Christoph Willibald Gluck, Jonathan Cohen, Iestyn Davies, Arcangelo
Orfeo ed Euridice, Wq. 30, Act II: Ballo. Dance of the Blessed SpiritsChristoph Willibald Gluck, Arcangelo, Jonathan Cohen
Orfeo ed Euridice, Wq. 30, Act II: Arioso. Che puro ciel! (Orfeo)Christoph Willibald Gluck, Jonathan Cohen, Arcangelo, Iestyn Davies
Orfeo ed Euridice, Wq. 30, Act III: Recit. Ahimè! Dove trascorsi? (Orfeo)Christoph Willibald Gluck, Arcangelo, Jonathan Cohen, Iestyn Davies
Orfeo ed Euridice, Wq. 30, Act III: Aria. Che farò senza Euridice? (Orfeo)Christoph Willibald Gluck, Jonathan Cohen, Iestyn Davies, Arcangelo
Aria. Pensa a serbarmi, o caraGaetano Guadagni, Iestyn Davies, Arcangelo, Jonathan Cohen
Iestyn Davies is a British countertenor celebrated globally for his exquisite voice and remarkable technical prowess. A Grammy Award winner, Davies is renowned for his performances in Baroque music and opera, captivating audiences with his vocal agility and deep musicality. His repertoire includes iconic Handel roles such as Bertarido, Orlando, Rinaldo, and Ottone, showcasing his versatility and artistry. Davies' journey began at Wells Cathedral School, where he discovered his unique countertenor voice, and continued with studies in Archaeology and Anthropology at Cambridge University and vocal training at the Royal Academy of Music. Beyond his musical achievements, Davies is an Ambassador for the Landmark Trust and is known for pushing boundaries in the opera world, collaborating with innovative voices and connecting deeply with audiences. His performances in opera houses and concert halls worldwide underscore his status as one of the finest singers of our time.
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Iestyn Davies
