Martyn Green's Gilbert & Sullivan

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless world of Gilbert and Sullivan with "Martyn Green's Gilbert & Sullivan," a captivating collection of operetta highlights performed by the legendary Martyn Green and the Columbia Operetta Chorus. Released on January 1, 2000, under the Maestoso label, this album is a concise yet delightful journey through the iconic works of Arthur Sullivan, spanning a mere 42 minutes.

The album features a stellar selection of pieces from some of Sullivan's most beloved operas, including "Pirates of Penzance," "H.M.S. Pinafore," "The Yeomen of the Guard," "The Mikado," "Princess Ida," "Patience," "Iolanthe," and "Trial By Jury." Each track showcases Sullivan's unparalleled ability to blend wit, charm, and melodic brilliance, with standout performances of classics like "A Modern Major-General," "The Judge's Song," and "The Nightmare Song."

Martyn Green, a revered figure in the world of Gilbert and Sullivan, brings his inimitable charisma and vocal prowess to this recording, which was originally released in 1971 and has been reissued with a fresh touch. The cast is exemplary, featuring notable performers such as Thomas Round, Richard Walker, Leonard Osborn, and Valerie Masterson, among others. The full libretto is included, allowing you to fully appreciate the witty and clever dialogue that complements Sullivan's enchanting music.

Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Martyn Green's Gilbert & Sullivan" offers an accessible and enjoyable introduction to the works of Arthur Sullivan. The album's compact duration makes it an ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying musical interlude, while its high-quality performances ensure that you'll want to come back to it time and time again. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Gilbert and Sullivan through the lens of one of their most celebrated interpreters.

1 januari 2000

2000 Maestoso

About Arthur Sullivan

Sir Arthur Seymour Sullivan, born in Lambeth in 1842, was a prodigious English composer whose musical genius was evident from a young age. By eight, he could play all the wind instruments in his father's band, and his first anthem was already composed. Sullivan's career spanned a wide range of genres, but he is most celebrated for his collaborations with the dramatist W.S. Gilbert. Together, they created fourteen iconic comic operas, including the beloved "H.M.S. Pinafore," "The Pirates of Penzance," and "The Mikado," which remain staples of the operatic repertoire.

Beyond his famous partnership with Gilbert, Sullivan's compositions include 24 operas, 11 major orchestral works, choral pieces, ballets, and numerous hymns and songs. His choral work "The Golden Legend" was once second only to Handel's "Messiah" in popularity. Sullivan's personal life was marked by a notable liaison with American socialite Mary Frances Ronalds, with whom he maintained a discreet but close relationship. Despite his prolific output and renown during his lifetime, Sullivan's serious works are less frequently performed today, overshadowed by the enduring popularity of his comic operas with Gilbert. His legacy endures as one of the most prolific and influential composers of the Victorian era.