Immerse yourself in the early brilliance of Benjamin Britten with "Britten & Pears: The Early HMV Recordings," a captivating collection of 28 songs that showcase the composer's genius and his enduring collaboration with tenor Peter Pears. Released by Heritage Records, this album is a treasure trove of classical, choral, and neoclassical masterpieces, spanning a rich and diverse repertoire that includes settings of Michelangelo's sonnets, John Donne's holy sonnets, traditional folk songs, and old American tunes.
Recorded in the early days of Britten's career, this album offers a unique glimpse into the formative years of one of the 20th century's most influential composers. The disc features Britten's own compositions, such as the evocative "Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22" and "The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35," alongside his arrangements of folk songs and traditional melodies. From the haunting beauty of "O Waly, Waly" to the playful charm of "The Boatmen's Dance," each track is a testament to Britten's unparalleled musical craftsmanship and his deep appreciation for the human voice.
The album also includes Britten's settings of German lieder by Schubert, demonstrating his versatility and mastery of different musical styles. With a total duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, "Britten & Pears: The Early HMV Recordings" is a comprehensive introduction to the early works of Benjamin Britten, offering a fascinating journey through his creative evolution and his enduring partnership with Peter Pears. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Britten's music, this album is an essential addition to your collection, showcasing the composer's unique voice and his enduring legacy.
2011 Heritage Records2011 Heritage Records
Tracks
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Si Come Nella PennaBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: A Che Piu Debb 'io maiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Veggio co 'bei Vostri OcchiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Tu sa 'ch 'io soBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Rendete a Gli Occhi MieiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: S'un Casto AmorBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Spirto ben NatoBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Oh My Blacke Soule!"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Batter My Heart"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "O Might Those Sighes and Teares"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Oh, to Vex Me"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "What If This Present"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Since She Whom I Loved"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "At the Round Earth's Imagined Corners"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Thou Hast Made Me"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Death, Be Not Proud"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Plough BoyTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Come You Not from NewcastleTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
O Waly, WalyTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Foggy, Foggy DewTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Six Dukes Went a-FishinTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: The Boatmen's Dance (Minstrel Song 1843)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: Long Time AgoAaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: The Dodger (Campaign Song)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: Simple Gifts (Shaker Song)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: I Bought Me a CatAaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Im Frühling, D. 882 (Schulze)Franz Schubert, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Auf der Bruck, D. 853 (Schulze)Franz Schubert, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
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