Kathleen Ferrier, the renowned English contralto, invites you into the world of Baroque masterpieces with her album "Kathleen Ferrier Sings Bach and Handel." Released on February 18, 2022, under the Musical Concepts label, this collection is a testament to Ferrier's extraordinary vocal prowess and her deep connection with the works of Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel.
Spanning a concise yet impactful 79 minutes, the album features a carefully curated selection of arias and chorales from some of the most celebrated compositions in classical music history. From the profound depths of Bach's "Mass in B Minor" and the dramatic intensity of his "Saint Matthew Passion" to the operatic brilliance of Handel's "Samson," "Messiah," and "Rodelinda," Ferrier's performances are nothing short of transcendent.
Her rendition of "Erbarme dich" from the "Saint Matthew Passion" is a standout, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion and spiritual depth. Similarly, her interpretation of "Ombra mai fu" from Handel's "Serse" highlights her technical skill and expressive range. The album also includes lesser-known gems like "Ah tarry yet, my dearest Saviour" from Bach's "Ascension Oratorio," adding a layer of discovery for both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Ferrier's rich, velvety voice and her nuanced understanding of Baroque music make this album a timeless addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Ferrier's work or new to the world of classical music, "Kathleen Ferrier Sings Bach and Handel" offers a captivating journey through some of the most enduring and beloved works of the Baroque era.
2022 Musical Concepts2022 Musical Concepts
Tracks
Mass in B Minor, BWV 232: Qui sedesJohann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Saint Matthew Passion, BWV 244: Grief for sin (Buß und Reu)Johann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Saint John Passion, BWV 245: All is fulfilled (Alles ist vollbracht)Johann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Mass in B Minor, BWV 232: Agnus DeiJohann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Samson, HWV 57: Return, O God of HostsGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Messiah, HWV 56: O Thou that tellest good tidings to ZionGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Judas Maccabaeus, HWV 63: Father of HeavenGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Messiah, HWV 56: He was despisedGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Atalanta, HWV 35: Like as the love-lorn turtleGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Phyllis Spurr
Rodelinda, HWV 19: Art thou troubledGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Malcolm Sargent, London Symphony Orchestra
Serse, HWV 40: Ombra mai fuGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Malcolm Sargent, London Symphony Orchestra
Praise God in his Kingdoms (Lobet Gott in seinen Reichen), BWV 11 "Ascension Oratorio": Ah tarry yet, my dearest Saviour (Ach, bleibe doch, mein liebstes Leben)Kathleen Ferrier, Reginald Jacques, The Jacques Orchestra
Saint Matthew Passion, BWV 244: Have mercy O Lord on me (Erbarme dich)Johann Sebastian Bach, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Malcolm Sargent, National Symphony Orchestra