Great Swedish Singers: Nicolai Gedda

Experience the golden voice of the late, great Nicolai Gedda, one of the most celebrated operatic tenors of the 20th century, with this exquisite collection spanning his illustrious career from 1960 to 1976. Born in Sweden in 1925, Gedda's Russian-influenced background and Italianate tenor style made him a standout in the world of opera, with a career that lasted over five decades.

This album, released by Bluebell Records, features 17 enchanting tracks that showcase Gedda's remarkable vocal range and artistry. From the hauntingly beautiful "Les nuits d'été" by Hector Berlioz to the poignant "Pelleas et Melisande" by Claude Debussy, each piece is a testament to Gedda's extraordinary talent and his deep connection to the music he performed.

Highlights include the romantic "Beau soir" by Debussy, the lively "Mandoline" by Gabriel Fauré, and the rarely performed "Phidyle" and "Le manoir de Rosemonde." The album also features a unique rendition of "Mes longs cheveux" from Debussy's "Pelleas et Melisande," sung in Swedish, offering a rare glimpse into Gedda's cultural heritage.

With a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of classical and operatic gems, performed by one of the most revered singers in the genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Nicolai Gedda or a newcomer to his work, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire.

Nicolai Gedda, born Harry Gustaf Nikolai Gädda, was a Swedish operatic tenor renowned for his extraordinary linguistic abilities and captivating performances. With a career spanning over five decades, Gedda debuted in 1951 and continued to enchant audiences until his final operatic recording in 2003 at the age of 77. His repertoire was vast, performing in French, Russian, German, Italian, English, Czech, Swedish, and even Latin, a testament to his polyglot prowess. Gedda's discography is equally impressive, boasting over two hundred recordings, making him one of the most widely recorded opera singers in history. His singing was celebrated for its tonal beauty, impeccable vocal control, and deep musical insight. Gedda's legacy includes the creation of the role of Anatol in the world premiere of the American opera "Vanessa" at the Metropolitan Opera in 1958. His influence and artistry continue to inspire, cementing his status as one of the greatest tenors of all time.