Leonie Rysanek, one of the most celebrated sopranos of the 20th century, is immortalized in this extraordinary collection of operatic arias and scenes. Spanning a career that lasted nearly five decades, Rysanek's radiant voice and dramatic intensity are showcased in this 2016 release from Orfeo. The album features a diverse range of roles from some of the most beloved operas in the repertoire, including works by Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, and Strauss.
Rysanek's powerful and expressive performances are highlighted in iconic pieces such as "Als Sieger kehre heim!" from Verdi's "Aida," "O bang ist mir um's Herz" from Tchaikovsky's "Eugene Onegin," and "Ah! Du wolltest mich nicht deinen Mund küssen lassen" from Strauss's "Salome." Her signature "Rysanek scream" adds a thrilling dimension to her portrayals, making each performance unforgettable.
This album is a testament to Rysanek's versatility and artistry, featuring both well-known arias and lesser-heard scenes that demonstrate her range and depth as a singer. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Rysanek's work or a newcomer to her artistry, this collection offers a comprehensive overview of her remarkable career. With a duration of over two hours, this album is a treasure trove for opera enthusiasts, providing a rich and immersive experience of one of the greatest sopranos of our time.
Leonie Rysanek, born Leopoldine Rysanek, was an Austrian dramatic soprano renowned for her powerful voice and exceptional acting skills on the opera stage. Born into a musical family in Vienna in 1926, Rysanek's early ambition was to become a singing actress, a goal she pursued with dedication and passion. She honed her craft at the Vienna Conservatory under the guidance of baritone Alfred Jerger and later Rudolf Grossmann, whom she married in 1950. Rysanek's operatic debut came in 1949 as Agathe in Carl Maria von Weber's "Der Freischütz" in Innsbruck, marking the beginning of a illustrious career that spanned over four decades.
Rysanek's breakthrough role came in 1951 when she was invited by Wieland Wagner to sing Sieglinde in "Die Walküre" at the Bayreuth Festival, conducted by the legendary Herbert von Karajan. This performance launched her international career, leading her to perform at prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Opera, the Vienna State Opera, and the San Francisco Opera. Her repertoire included signature roles in operas by Verdi, Wagner, and Strauss, showcasing her full, glowing tone and her ability to craft a line with exemplary precision.
Throughout her career, Leonie Rysanek was celebrated not just for her vocal prowess but also for her extraordinary ability to embody her characters, making her a favorite among opera enthusiasts worldwide. Her legacy as one of the most famous post-war sopranos continues to inspire new generations of singers and audiences alike.
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