Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Franz Lehár's romantic operetta, "The Land of Smiles," brought to life in this 1996 release. Conducted by the esteemed Richard Bonynge and performed by the English Chamber Orchestra, this album captures the essence of Lehár's final operetta, originally produced in 1929 and forever associated with the legendary tenor Richard Tauber.
Spanning three acts and a total of 18 tracks, this operetta takes you on a journey through a tale of love, longing, and cultural clashes. The Land of Smiles is a story of a European prince who falls in love with a Chinese princess, exploring themes of love, duty, and the differences between Eastern and Western cultures. The music is a delightful blend of traditional operetta styles and exotic influences, showcasing Lehár's mastery of melody and orchestration.
The album features a rich array of vocal and instrumental performances, from the lively overture to the tender arias and the grand finales. Highlights include "Three Cheers for Lisa!", "Before the Window of My Beloved," and "I Long for My Homeland So Far Away," each offering a unique glimpse into the characters and their emotional journeys.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the world of Franz Lehár's operettas. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Land of Smiles" promises a captivating and enjoyable listening experience.
The Land of Smiles: OvertureFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: Introduction and Entrance. Three Cheers for Lisa!Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Nancy Gustafson, London Voices, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: This Isn't the Only TimeFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: I Tremble Whenever I Enter This RoomFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: Now Will You Join Me in a Little Cup of Tea?Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: Before the Window of My BelovedFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: Finale. We Are AloneFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: PreludeFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: Entrance of Sou ChongFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra
The Land of Smiles, Act II: Ah, Who Has Given Us Our Dream Come True?Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Nancy Gustafson
The Land of Smiles, Act II: In Pagodas 'Cross the NationFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: "Love" for Me, and "Love" for YouFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: My Heart Belongs to You!Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: I Long for My Homeland, So Far AwayFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: Chinese Wedding ProcessionFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: Finale. I Forbid You to Go!Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act III: Love Cannot FailFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge, London Voices
The Land of Smiles, Act III: Zig, Zig, Zig!Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act III: It's Strange How Happiness So Quickly FadesFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act III: Finale. The Sun Which Shines HereFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Lynton Atkinson, Nancy Gustafson, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
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