Gwyneth Jones, the acclaimed Welsh soprano, delivers a captivating operatic recital in this 1966 release, showcasing her extraordinary vocal prowess and dramatic intensity. Recorded with the Wiener Opernorchester under the direction of Argeo Quadri, this album is a testament to Jones' early career brilliance, featuring a selection of iconic arias that highlight her versatility and power.
The album opens with a stirring performance of Fidelio by Ludwig van Beethoven, followed by a haunting rendition of "Dei tuoi figli la madre" from Luigi Cherubini's Medea. Jones' ability to convey deep emotion and dramatic depth is evident in these pieces. The recital continues with a thrilling excerpt from Richard Wagner's Der fliegende Holländer, demonstrating her command of the German repertoire.
Italian opera enthusiasts will appreciate her moving interpretation of "Ah perfido!" by Gioachino Rossini, as well as her passionate delivery of arias from Giuseppe Verdi's Il Trovatore and La forza del destino. Each piece is performed with a level of artistry and technical precision that solidified Gwyneth Jones' reputation as one of the most remarkable sopranos of her generation.
This vinyl release, originally issued by Decca Records, offers a rare opportunity to experience Jones' early work in its original format. The album is a must-listen for opera aficionados and those eager to discover the early brilliance of one of the most celebrated sopranos in classical music history.