Magnificat

Album Description

Experience the enchanting vocals of renowned soprano Emma Kirkby in her captivating album "Magnificat," released in 2006. This exquisite collection showcases Kirkby's extraordinary talent and versatility, featuring a blend of sacred and operatic works that span the Baroque era. The album opens with J.S. Bach's Cantata BWV 51, "Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen," a joyous and uplifting piece that sets the tone for the entire collection. Kirkby's pure, ethereal voice soars through the intricate melodies, accompanied by the exquisite playing of the Orchestra of the Antipodes under the direction of Antony Walker.

The album also includes Vivaldi's Magnificat, RV 610, a stunning work that showcases Kirkby's ability to convey both joy and reverence. The piece is performed with a sense of grandeur and elegance, highlighting the composer's innovative use of orchestration and harmony. Handel's Laudate pueri Dominum, HWV 237, is another standout track, featuring Kirkby's powerful and expressive vocals as she navigates the complex and dramatic melodies.

In addition to these Baroque masterpieces, the album also features two arias from Handel's oratorio "The Passions," performed with the same level of skill and artistry. The entire album is a testament to Kirkby's exceptional talent and her deep understanding of the Baroque repertoire. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate beautiful singing, this album is sure to delight and inspire. With a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, it's the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening, immersing yourself in the timeless beauty of Baroque music.

6 jan 2006

(P) 2006 Australian Broadcasting Corporation

About Emma Kirkby

Dame Emma Kirkby, DBE, is an acclaimed English soprano renowned for her mastery of early music. Born in Camberley, Surrey, Kirkby's journey into the world of music began as a classics student at Oxford, where she sang for pleasure in choirs and small groups, particularly drawn to Renaissance and Baroque repertoire. Her professional career took off when she joined the Taverner Choir in 1971, leading to a long and fruitful association with the Consort of Musicke and other pioneering ensembles in historically informed performance.

Kirkby's warm, flexible voice has graced over 100 recordings, showcasing her expertise in Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical music. Her performances are celebrated for their lightness, brilliance, and emotional depth, making her a favorite among classical music enthusiasts worldwide. Kirkby's contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Order of the British Empire in 2000. Beyond her musical achievements, Kirkby's engaging personality and insightful approaches to singing have made her a beloved figure in the classical music community. Whether performing in grand concert halls or intimate venues, Kirkby's performances are always a captivating experience.