Experience the profound artistry of Thomas Quasthoff in "Betrachte, meine Seel," a captivating collection of sacred and spiritual works that showcase his extraordinary vocal talent. Released on January 1, 2006, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album spans a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that highlight Quasthoff's deep connection to the music.
The album features a diverse range of pieces, including selections from J.S. Bach's monumental works such as the Christmas Oratorio, St. John Passion, and St. Matthew Passion. These works are complemented by compositions from Handel's "Messiah" and Haydn's "The Seasons," as well as Mendelssohn's "Elijah" and "Paulus." The inclusion of spirituals like "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" and "Deep River," arranged by Friedrich Meyer, adds a unique dimension to the album, showcasing Quasthoff's versatility and depth as an artist.
Accompanied by the Staatskapelle Dresden, under the direction of conductor Matthias Weigle, Quasthoff's powerful and nuanced performances bring these timeless pieces to life. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Betrachte, meine Seel" offers a compelling journey through some of the most beloved and enduring works in the sacred music repertoire. This album is a testament to Quasthoff's mastery and his ability to convey the profound beauty and spiritual depth of these compositions.
Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 / Pt. 1 - For the First Day of Christmas: No. 8 "Großer Herr, o starker König"Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 / Part Three - For the third Day of Christmas: No. 29 Duett (Sopran, Baß): "Herr, dein Mitleid, dein Erbarmen"Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Sibylla Rubens, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
St. John Passion, BWV 245 / Part Two: 31. Arioso: "Betrachte, meine Seel"Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
St. John Passion, BWV 245 / Part Two: No.32 Aria (baß) - Chorus: " Mein teurer Heiland "Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle, Chor der Staatsoper Dresden, Matthias Brauer
St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244 / Pt. 2: No. 75 Aria (Bass): "Mache dich, mein Herze, rein"Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Messiah / Part 3: 45. Behold, I tell you a mystery - 46. Aria: The trumpet shall soundGeorge Frideric Handel, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Die Jahreszeiten - Hob. XXI:3 / Der Frühling: Nos.3&4 "Vom Widder strahlet jetzt"-"Schon eilet froh"Joseph Haydn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Die Jahreszeiten - Hob. XXI:3 / Der Winter: No. 38 Arie/Rez.: "Erblicke hier, betörter Mensch"Joseph Haydn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
The Creation (Die Schöpfung) / Part 1 (Sung in German): Und Gott sprach...Rollend in schäumenden WellenJoseph Haydn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Elijah, Op. 70, MWV A25 - German Text / Part 1: No. 14: "Herr Gott Abrahams"Felix Mendelssohn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Elijah, Op. 70, MWV A25 - German Text / Part 2: No. 26 "Es ist genug! So nimm nun, Herr"Felix Mendelssohn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Paulus, Op. 36, MWV A14 / Part 1: No. 18 Arie: "Gott, sei mir gnädig"Felix Mendelssohn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot - Arr. Friedrich MeyerTraditional, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Deep River - Arr. Friedrich MeyerAnonymous, Thomas Quasthoff, Chor der Staatsoper Dresden, Matthias Brauer