Dokumente einer Sängerkarriere - Leonie Rysanek - Leonie Rysanek

Album Description

Dive into the rich legacy of opera with "Dokumente einer Sängerkarriere - Leonie Rysanek," a captivating collection of performances by the renowned soprano Leonie Rysanek. Released on September 20, 2006, this album is a testament to Rysanek's extraordinary career and her mastery of some of the most iconic roles in opera. Spanning a little over an hour and nineteen minutes, the album features thirteen stunning arias from a variety of operas, showcasing Rysanek's versatility and vocal prowess.

The album opens with "Abscheulicher, wo eilst du hin?" from Beethoven's "Fidelio," and takes the listener through a journey of operatic masterpieces, including works by Weber, Verdi, Puccini, and Strauss. Each track is a masterclass in vocal technique and dramatic expression, highlighting Rysanek's ability to bring depth and nuance to every role she undertakes.

From the haunting beauty of "Ozean, du Ungeheuer" from Weber's "Oberon" to the dramatic intensity of "Dieser Flecken kommt immer wieder" from Verdi's "Macbeth," this album offers a comprehensive overview of Rysanek's artistry. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection provides a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album is released under the Preiser Records label, ensuring high-quality audio that does justice to Rysanek's extraordinary talent.

20 september 2006

Preiser Records

About Leonie Rysanek

Leonie Rysanek, born Leopoldine Rysanek, was an Austrian dramatic soprano renowned for her powerful voice and exceptional acting skills on the opera stage. Born into a musical family in Vienna in 1926, Rysanek's early ambition was to become a singing actress, a goal she pursued with dedication and passion. She honed her craft at the Vienna Conservatory under the guidance of baritone Alfred Jerger and later Rudolf Grossmann, whom she married in 1950. Rysanek's operatic debut came in 1949 as Agathe in Carl Maria von Weber's "Der Freischütz" in Innsbruck, marking the beginning of a illustrious career that spanned over four decades.

Rysanek's breakthrough role came in 1951 when she was invited by Wieland Wagner to sing Sieglinde in "Die Walküre" at the Bayreuth Festival, conducted by the legendary Herbert von Karajan. This performance launched her international career, leading her to perform at prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Opera, the Vienna State Opera, and the San Francisco Opera. Her repertoire included signature roles in operas by Verdi, Wagner, and Strauss, showcasing her full, glowing tone and her ability to craft a line with exemplary precision.

Throughout her career, Leonie Rysanek was celebrated not just for her vocal prowess but also for her extraordinary ability to embody her characters, making her a favorite among opera enthusiasts worldwide. Her legacy as one of the most famous post-war sopranos continues to inspire new generations of singers and audiences alike.