Kathleen Battle: Essentials

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera, choral, and classical music with "Kathleen Battle: Essentials," a captivating collection of timeless arias and songs performed by the incomparable Kathleen Battle. Released on January 24, 2020, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album spans a rich tapestry of genres and composers, showcasing Battle's extraordinary vocal range and interpretive prowess.

From the tender lullaby "Summertime" from "Porgy and Bess" to the dramatic "Batti, batti, o bel Masetto" from "Don Giovanni," Battle navigates each piece with unparalleled grace and depth. The album features renowned works by composers such as George Frideric Handel, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Schubert, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, among others. Accompanied by the Orchestra of St. Luke's and conducted by John Nelson, the performances are brought to life with exquisite orchestration and musicality.

Highlights include the hauntingly beautiful "Der Hirt auf dem Felsen" by Schubert, the soothing "Nacht und Träume" by Schubert, and the powerful "Frondi tenere" from Handel's "Serse." The album also includes lesser-known gems like Reynaldo Hahn's "A Chloris" and Franz Schubert's "An die Laute," offering a diverse and enriching listening experience.

With a duration of 1 hour and 49 minutes, "Kathleen Battle: Essentials" is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you're a fan of operatic arias, choral masterpieces, or simply appreciate the beauty of the human voice, this album is sure to delight and inspire.