Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of classical music with Kathleen Ferrier's enchanting album, "Bach, J.S.: Ascension Oratorio, BWV 11 / Arias / Handel G.F.: Arias." Released on August 26, 2008, this captivating collection showcases the extraordinary talent of Kathleen Ferrier, a renowned contralto whose voice has left an indelible mark on the world of classical music.
The album is a masterful blend of compositions by two of the most celebrated composers in history, Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel. It features a selection of arias and choral works that span a variety of moods and themes, from the profound and introspective to the jubilant and triumphant. The centerpiece of the album is Bach's Ascension Oratorio, BWV 11, a stunning work that showcases the composer's unparalleled ability to convey the depths of human emotion through music.
In addition to the Ascension Oratorio, the album also includes a selection of arias from Bach's Mass in B Minor, BWV 232, and St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244, as well as arias from Handel's Samson, HWV 57, and Messiah, HWV 56. Each piece is performed with the same level of artistry and passion that has made Kathleen Ferrier a legend in the world of classical music.
The album's duration is a concise 1 hour and 13 minutes, making it the perfect length for both casual listening and in-depth study. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire you. The recording quality is exceptional, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuances of Ferrier's voice and the intricate details of the compositions.
Kathleen Ferrier's rendition of these timeless classics is a testament to her extraordinary talent and her deep understanding of the music. Her voice is rich and resonant, with a warmth and clarity that brings each piece to life. Whether she is singing a soaring aria or a tender lullaby, Ferrier's performance is always imbued with a sense of authenticity and emotional depth.
In summary, "Bach, J.S.: Ascension Oratorio, BWV 11 / Arias / Handel G.F.: Arias" is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of classical music. With its stunning performances, exceptional recording quality, and timeless compositions, this album is a true gem that will delight and inspire listeners for years to come.
(C) 2008 Naxos(P) 2008 Naxos
Tracks
Mass in B Minor, BWV 232: Qui sedes ad dextram PatrisJohann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Michael Dobson, Basil Lam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244, Pt. I: No. 6, Aria. Grief for Sin (Buss und Reu)Johann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Basil Lam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
St. John Passion, BWV 245, Pt. II: Aria. All Is fulfilled (Es ist vollbracht!)Johann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Ambrose Gauntlett, Basil Lam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
Mass in B Minor, BWV 232: Agnus DeiJohann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Basil Lam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
Samson, HWV 57, Act II: Aria. Return, Oh God of hostsGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Basil Lam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
Messiah, HWV 56, Pt. I: Aria. O thou That tellest good tidings to ZionGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Basil Lam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
Judas Maccabaeus, HWV 63: Judas Maccabaeus, HWV 63, Pt. III: Air. Father of Heaven (Sung in German)George Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Basil Lam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
Messiah, HWV 56, Pt. II: Aria. He was despised and rejected of menGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Basil Lam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Praise our God who reigns in heaven (Lobet Gott in seinen Reichen) [Chorus]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Recitative. Then Jesus lifted His hands to heaven (Der Herr Jesus hub seine Hande auf) [Tenor]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Recitative. My Saviour, Is the parting hour so near? (Bass) [Ach, Jesu, ist dein Abschied schon so nah?]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Aria. Ah, tarry yet, my dearest Saviour (Ach bleibe doch, mein liebstes Leben) [Alto]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Recitative. And behold He rose from the midst (Und ward aufgehaben zusehends) [Tenor]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Chorale. Now at Thy feet creation lies (Nun lieget alles unter dir) [Chorus]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Recitative and Duet. And while they looked steadfastly into heaven (Und da sie ihm nachsahen) [Tenor, Bass]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Recitative. Ah Lord, now quickly come again (Ach ja! So komme bald zuruck) [Alto]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Aria. Jesus, all Thy loving kindness (Jesu, deine Gnadenblicke) [Soprano]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques
Himmelfahrtsoratorium, BWV 11: Chorale. When will the night be over? (Wann soll es doch geschehen) [Chorus]Johann Sebastian Bach, Ena Mitchell, Kathleen Ferrier, William Herbert, William Parsons, Cantata Singers, The, Jacques Orchestra, The, Thornton Lofthouse, Reginald Jacques