Immerse yourself in the timeless artistry of Kathleen Ferrier, one of the most celebrated contraltos of the 20th century, with this captivating album released on January 1, 2004, by Urania. This collection showcases Ferrier's extraordinary vocal range and emotional depth, featuring a blend of opera and classical genres that span nearly an hour and five minutes of enchanting music.
The album opens with Brahms' "Alto Rhapsody, Op. 53," a piece that highlights Ferrier's ability to convey profound emotion through her rich, resonant voice. Following this, you'll find the "Vier ernste Gesänge, Op. 121," a set of four serious songs by Brahms, arranged by Sargent. Each song delves into themes of life, death, and the human condition, showcasing Ferrier's mastery of dramatic interpretation.
Chausson's "Poème de l'amour et de la mer, Op. 19" is another standout piece, offering a lyrical and romantic contrast to the more somber Brahms compositions. Ferrier's rendition is both tender and powerful, capturing the essence of love and the sea in a way that only she can.
The album concludes with two arias by Bach: "Vergiss mein nicht, BWV 505" and "Ach, dass nicht die letzte Stunde, BWV 439." These pieces demonstrate Ferrier's versatility and her ability to bring a sense of timelessness to even the most familiar works.
Recorded with the Hallé Orchestra under the direction of John Barbirolli, this album is a testament to Ferrier's enduring legacy and her unparalleled contribution to the world of classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to her work, this collection is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Vinylscout