Elin Manahan Thomas, the talented Welsh soprano, makes her debut with "Eternal Light," a captivating exploration of choral and operatic masterpieces. Released in 2007, this album showcases her ethereal voice and versatility, accompanied by the distinguished Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. With a duration of just over an hour, the album is a journey through time, featuring works from renowned composers such as Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi, alongside lesser-known gems.
The album opens with the enchanting "O Euchari, in leta via" and includes beloved arias like "Let The Bright Seraphim" from Handel's "Jeptha" and the poignant "Dido's Lament" from Purcell's "Dido and Aeneas." Manahan Thomas's rendition of Bach's "Aus Liebe will mein Heiland sterben" is a standout, highlighting her ability to convey deep emotion and technical prowess. The album also features beautiful songs by Dowland, including "Flow My Tears" and "Weepe you no more, sad fountaines," demonstrating her skill in interpreting early music.
"Eternal Light" is a testament to Elin Manahan Thomas's artistry and her ability to breathe new life into both familiar and obscure pieces. The album's diverse repertoire, coupled with her exquisite vocals, makes it a compelling addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a seasoned opera lover or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Symphonia et Ordo virtutum: O Euchari, in leta viaHildegard von Bingen, Elin Manahan Thomas
Eternal Source Of Light Divine (Ode For The Birthday Of Queen Anne), HWV 74George Frideric Handel, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
Nulla in Mundo Pax Sincera, RV 630Antonio Vivaldi, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
"Ombra mai fu" (Serse), HWV 40George Frideric Handel, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
Salve Regina in F minor: Et JesumGiovanni Battista Pergolesi, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
Bist Du Bei Mir, BWV 508Johann Sebastian Bach, Elin Manahan Thomas, Alastair Ross, Joseph Crouch, Harry Christophers
Dorilla In Tempe, RV 709: Dell'aura al sussurarAntonio Vivaldi, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
Where the Bee SucksThomas Arne, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
"Where'er You Walk" (Semele), HWV 58George Frideric Handel, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
Aus Liebe will mein Heiland sterbenJohann Sebastian Bach, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
Rinaldo, HWV 7a / Act 2: "Lascia ch'io pianga"George Frideric Handel, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
"Let The Bright Seraphim", HWV 57George Frideric Handel, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
Flow My TearsJohn Dowland, Elin Manahan Thomas, David Miller, Harry Christophers
When I Am Laid In Earth (Dido's Lament)Henry Purcell, Elin Manahan Thomas, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Harry Christophers
Weepe you no more, sad fountainesJohn Dowland, Elin Manahan Thomas, David Miller, Harry Christophers
Pur ti miroClaudio Monteverdi, Elin Manahan Thomas, Robin Blaze, Alastair Ross, Siobhán Armstrong, Joseph Crouch, Eligio Quinteiro, Harry Christophers