Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Franz Lehár's operetta masterpiece, "The Merry Widow," with this captivating collection of highlights. Recorded in 1978 by the renowned Decca label, this album captures the essence of Lehár's timeless composition, featuring the incomparable Beverly Sills in her final stage performances. The Merry Widow - Highlights offers a delightful journey through the operetta's most memorable moments, showcasing the wit, charm, and melodic brilliance that have made it a beloved classic.
From the lively overture to the romantic duets and the vivacious cancan, this album presents a symphony of emotions and stories. The Merry Widow - Highlights includes iconic pieces such as "A Highly Respectable Wife," "Let's all now waken memories," and "Love unspoken, love unbroken," each performed with the grace and artistry that Beverly Sills was known for. The album's duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes ensures a fulfilling listening experience, perfect for both opera enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
Franz Lehár's "The Merry Widow" is a celebration of love, laughter, and the complexities of human relationships. This highlights album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Lehár's music, offering a glimpse into the world of early 20th-century operetta. Whether you're a seasoned opera fan or simply looking to explore the genre, this album is a treasure trove of musical delights that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
The Merry Widow: OvertureFranz Lehár, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 1: March from Introduction - Duet: A Highly Respectable WifeFranz Lehár, Valerie Masterson, John Brecknock, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 1: Anna's Entrance: Gentlemen, no moreFranz Lehár, Dame Joan Sutherland, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 1: Solo: I'm off to Chez Maxime... My very heavy FatherlandFranz Lehár, Werner Krenn, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 1: Duet: Proceed. One girl has almond eyesFranz Lehár, Werner Krenn, Dame Joan Sutherland, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 1: Finale I: Ladies' choice!Franz Lehár, Dame Joan Sutherland, Werner Krenn, Valerie Masterson, John Brecknock, Ambrosian Singers, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 2: Vilia Song: Let's all now waken memoriesFranz Lehár, Dame Joan Sutherland, Werner Krenn, John Brecknock, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 2: Duet: Such a silly soldier boy...Heija!Franz Lehár, Dame Joan Sutherland, Werner Krenn, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 2: Romanza: Love in my heart was dyingFranz Lehár, John Brecknock, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 2: Finale II: This match should last - ExcerptFranz Lehár, Dame Joan Sutherland, Werner Krenn, John Brecknock, Ambrosian Singers, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 3: The Cake WalkFranz Lehár, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 3: Njegus's Aria: I was born by cruel fateFranz Lehár, Graeme Ewer, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 2: Cancan: We're the famous Maxime playgirlsFranz Lehár, Regina Resnik, Ambrosian Singers, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Merry Widow / Act 2: Duet: Love unspoken, love unbrokenFranz Lehár, Werner Krenn, Dame Joan Sutherland, Ambrosian Singers, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge