Michael Nyman's "The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat" is a captivating chamber opera that delves into the fascinating and poignant world of Dr. P, a man grappling with visual agnosia. This one-act opera, released in 2016 under the Naxos label, is a masterful blend of minimalism and classical genres, spanning 58 minutes of intricate and evocative music. The opera is based on the essay of the same name by the renowned neurologist Oliver Sacks, which was published in 1985, and features a libretto by Christopher Rawlence.
The album comprises 17 tracks that weave together to tell the story of Dr. P, offering a unique perspective into the complexities of the human mind and the challenges of visual perception. Michael Nyman's composition is both haunting and beautiful, with a rich tapestry of sounds that bring the narrative to life. The opera features performances by Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Ryan MacPherson, the Nashville Opera Orchestra, and Dean Williamson, each contributing to the depth and resonance of the piece.
"The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat" is not just a musical experience but a journey into the intricacies of the human condition. Nyman's score is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, making it a standout work in his discography. Whether you are a fan of classical music, minimalism, or simply appreciate a compelling narrative, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2016 Naxos2016 Naxos
Tracks
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: Prologue. Neurology's Favorite Term Is DeficitMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The First Examination. TrafficMichael Nyman, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Ryan MacPherson, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Shoe. Can I Help?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Slides. You Can See Very ClearlyMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The River. What Do You See Now?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: Scene 2, The Dressing RitualMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Matthew Treviño, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The House Call. Bösendorfer!Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: Ich grolle nichtMichael Nyman, Matthew Treviño, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Solids. But What of the Parietal RegionsMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Matthew Treviño, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Photographs. What Is This?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Rose. Lost... What Is This?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Glove. Now, What Is This?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Chess Game. Pawn to King 4Michael Nyman, Matthew Treviño, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Street. From Our EndMichael Nyman, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Ryan MacPherson, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Paintings. Your Husband's a PainterMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Matthew Treviño, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Wife. Tell Me, How Does He Manage?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Matthew Treviño, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: Epilogue. The Prognosis. I Cannot Tell You What Is WrongMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
Michael Nyman is a renowned English composer, pianist, and musicologist celebrated for his innovative and prolific output across various genres. Born in London, Nyman is best known for his distinctive film scores, notably the multi-platinum soundtrack to Jane Campion's "The Piano," which blends classical elements with the energy of rock and minimalism. His compositions often combine Western classical music with a high-octane, propulsive style, earning him a reputation as one of the UK's most celebrated contemporary composers. Beyond film, Nyman has written numerous operas, concerti, string quartets, and chamber works, many of which are performed by his own Michael Nyman Band. His restless creativity extends to conducting, writing, photography, and film-making, making him a versatile and influential figure in the music world. Nyman's unique approach to composition, often described as "pump-action Purcell," continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.
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Michael Nyman
