Immerse yourself in the timeless artistry of Leontyne Price with the "Classical Collection," a captivating compilation released on March 20, 2012, under the Rolled Gold Classics label. This album is a testament to Price's extraordinary vocal prowess and her enduring legacy in the world of opera. Spanning a generous 1 hour and 34 minutes, the collection showcases a diverse array of arias and selections from some of the most beloved operas, including works by Verdi, Puccini, and Gershwin.
The album opens with powerful excerpts from Verdi's "Aida," followed by stirring pieces from "Il Trovatore." Price's rendition of "O patria mia" from "Aida" is particularly noteworthy, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion and dramatic intensity. The collection also features iconic arias from Puccini's "Madama Butterfly" and "Tosca," demonstrating Price's versatility and mastery of both lyrical and dramatic roles.
A highlight of the album is the inclusion of selections from Gershwin's "Porgy & Bess," where Price's rich, velvety voice brings a unique depth and warmth to these beloved songs. Tracks like "Summertime" and "I Loves You, Porgy" are particularly poignant, showcasing Price's ability to infuse each note with profound emotion.
Throughout the album, Price's voice is accompanied by the New Philharmonia Orchestra, conducted by Zubin Mehta, providing a lush and supportive backdrop that allows her voice to shine. The recording quality is exceptional, capturing the full range and nuance of Price's voice with clarity and precision.
"Classical Collection" is not just a compilation of arias; it is a celebration of Leontyne Price's illustrious career and her contributions to the world of opera. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to her work, this album offers a comprehensive and enjoyable introduction to her artistry. It is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of the human voice.
Aida - Ritorna vincitor! ... Numi, pietàLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Aida - Qui Radamès verrà!Leontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Aida - O patria miaLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Il Trovatore - Che più t'arresti'Leontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Il Trovatore - Tacea la notte placidaLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Il Trovatore - Di tale amor che dirsiLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Il Trovatore - Timor di me'; D'amor sull'ali roseeLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Madama Butterfly - Piangi' Perchè'; Un bel dì, vedremoLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Madama Butterfly - Tu, tu, piccolo iddio!Leontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
La Rondine - Chi il bel sogno di dorettaLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Tosca - Vissi d'arteLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Turandot - Signore, ascolta!Leontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Turandot - Tu che di gel sei cintaLeontyne Price, Laura Londi & Rome Opera House Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - Introduction, SummertimeLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - A Woman Is A Sometime ThingLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - Gone, Gone, GoneLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - My Man's Gone NowLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'Leontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - Bess, You Is My WomanLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - It Ain't Necessarily SoLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - What You Want Wid Bess'Leontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - I Loves You, PorgyLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - There's A Boat Dat's Leavin' Soon For New YorkLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - O Bess, Oh, Where's My Bess'Leontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra
Porgy & Bess - O Lawd, I'm On My WayLeontyne Price, William Warfield, Barbara Webb, Berniece Hall, Maeretha Stewart, Miriam Burton, John W. Bubbles, Robert Henson, McHenry Boatwright, Alonzo Jones, RCA Victor Chorus & RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra