"Endless Pleasure" is a captivating journey through the world of Baroque opera and classical music, featuring the renowned soprano Barbara Hendricks. Released on October 15, 2007, this album is a testament to Hendricks' extraordinary vocal range and artistry, accompanied by the Drottningholms Barockensemble. The album spans a diverse collection of works by Henry Purcell and George Frideric Handel, including arias from their most celebrated operas and oratorios.
The album opens with a piece from Purcell's "Oedipus" and includes iconic works such as "Music for a While" and "Dido and Aeneas." Hendricks' performance of "When I am laid in earth" from the latter is particularly haunting, showcasing her ability to convey deep pathos and vulnerability. The album also features several arias from Handel's operas, including "Giulio Cesare" and "Semele," where Hendricks' powerful and expressive voice shines.
In addition to these operatic gems, the album includes instrumental pieces from Handel's "Terpsichore" ballet suite, providing a delightful contrast to the vocal works. The album's duration of 74 minutes offers a rich and immersive experience, recorded in Järna, Sweden, in 2006 and 2007. The album is a beautiful blend of Hendricks' exquisite vocals and the ensemble's masterful playing, making it a standout in the classical music genre.
2007 Arte Verum2007 Arte Verum
Tracks
Oedipus, Z. 583: No. 2, Music for a whileHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Pausanias, Z. 585: No. 1, Sweeter than rosesHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
If Music Be the Food of Love, Z. 379 (1692 Version)Henry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
If Music Be the Food of Love, Z. 379Henry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
The Comical History of Don Quixote, Z. 578, Act V, Scene 1: From rosy bowersHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Lord What is Man ?, Z. 192Henry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Semele, HWV 58, Act II, Scene 2: Oh Sleep, Why Dost Thou Leave Me?George Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Semele, HWV 58, Act II, Scene 3: Where’er You WalkGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Semele, HWV 58, Act I, Scene 4: Endless PleasureGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Atalanta, HWV 35, Act I, Scene 1: Care selve, ombre beataGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act II, Scene 2: V’adoro, pupilleGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act III, Scene 3: E pur così in un giorno - Piangerò la sorta miaGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act III, Scene 7: Da tempeste il legno infrantoGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act I: Ah! BelindaHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III, Scene 2: When I am laid in earthHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Barbara Hendricks is an acclaimed American lyric soprano renowned for her powerful voice and versatility across opera, jazz, and recital performances. Born in Arkansas, Hendricks initially pursued a degree in chemistry and mathematics at the University of Nebraska before turning to music. She began her vocal training at the age of 19 and made her operatic debut in 1974, quickly gaining international acclaim. Hendricks is not just a remarkable artist but also a dedicated humanitarian, serving as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador since 1987. Her repertoire spans from classical arias to jazz standards, and she has performed on some of the world's most prestigious stages. Beyond her musical achievements, Hendricks has also made significant contributions to environmental conservation and social justice, serving as the German Minister for the Environment from 2013 to 2018. Her journey from the segregated South to the global opera scene is a testament to her resilience and talent, inspiring audiences worldwide.
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Barbara Hendricks
