Menotti: Martin's Lie, Five Songs & Canti della lontananza

Dive into the rich and evocative world of Gian Carlo Menotti's "Martin's Lie, Five Songs & Canti della lontananza," a captivating collection of operatic and vocal works that showcase the composer's mastery of storytelling and musical expression. Released on March 1, 1998, under the prestigious Chandos label, this album is a treasure trove for fans of opera and classical vocal music.

The centerpiece of the album is "Martin's Lie," a short opera set in the fourteenth century, designed for performance in churches. This 44-minute opera is a powerful exploration of deception, redemption, and the human condition, featuring a compelling narrative and memorable characters. The premiere recording of this work is a highlight, offering listeners a unique opportunity to experience Menotti's dramatic genius.

Complementing "Martin's Lie" are the "Five Songs for Tenor and Piano," a set of beautifully crafted pieces that highlight Menotti's lyrical sensitivity and poetic insight. These songs, including the premiere recording of "My Ghost," provide a more intimate and reflective counterpoint to the opera's dramatic intensity.

The album also includes "Canti della lontananza," a cycle of songs that delve into themes of longing, nostalgia, and the passage of time. These pieces, performed with exquisite sensitivity, offer a profound and moving listening experience.

Featuring a stellar cast of vocalists, including Connor Burrowes, Pamela Helen Stephen, Robin Leggate, and Alan Opie, this album is a testament to Menotti's enduring legacy as one of the most influential composers of the twentieth century. With a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "Martin's Lie, Five Songs & Canti della lontananza" is a rich and rewarding exploration of Menotti's musical universe, perfect for both longtime fans and newcomers to his work.