Experience the resurgence of Michael Tippett's final opera, "New Year," with this captivating 2025 release from NMC Recordings. This neoclassical masterpiece, conducted by Martyn Brabbins and performed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, is a testament to Tippett's enduring genius and a treat for classical music enthusiasts. Spanning nearly two hours, this 33-track album is a comprehensive journey through Tippett's intricate compositions, each scene and interlude meticulously crafted to tell a compelling story.
"New Year" is Tippett's last opera, and this recording marks its first new staging since its premiere run in 1989–90, brought to life by Birmingham Opera. The album features a stellar cast, including soprano Rhian Lois, who delivers a powerful performance as Jo Ann. The opera is divided into three acts, each exploring themes of innocence, betrayal, and redemption through Tippett's distinctive musical language.
Highlights of the album include the haunting "Thrice Magic Machine" from Act II, Scene 2, and the dramatic "Finale" that concludes Act III. The album also features notable interludes such as "Nowhere…Is Where We Dream We May" and "Mysterious Is the Dream," which showcase Tippett's ability to create atmospheric and introspective moments.
This recording is a significant addition to Tippett's discography, following notable works like "A Child of Our Time" and his "Piano Concerto & Symphony No. 2." Whether you're a longtime admirer of Michael Tippett's work or a newcomer to his compositions, "New Year" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Pre-order now to secure your copy and immerse yourself in the world of Michael Tippett's final opera.
2025 NMC Recordings2025 NMC Recordings
Tracks
New Year, Act I: Prelude: Our World Is Wicked...Michael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 1: Safe, Safe, SafeMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 1: Donny, Donny, Why Are You Here?Michael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 1: Children of the Terror TownMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 1: Donny’s SkaradeMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 1: Stop Now for That’s EnoughMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 1: Waifs and Orphans…Michael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I: Interlude: Nowhere…Is Where We Dream We MayMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 2: Tomorrow’s LaboratoryMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 2: Who Is That?Michael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 2: Manifest, Manifest Am IMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I: Interlude: Mysterious Is the DreamMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act I Scene 3: I Am Pelegrin…Michael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II: Prelude: Watch While They DanceMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II Scene 1: Mummers and MountebanksMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II Scene 1: The Shaman DanceMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II Scene 1: The Hunt - Round and About... - The Beating OutMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II Scene 2: Thrice Magic MachineMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II Scene 2: Who, Who Are You, Strange People?Michael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II Scene 2: Pelegrin…You Betrayed MeMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II Scene 2: Stand Back, Stand BackMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act II Scene 3: Hand Clap HimMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III: Prelude: Our World’s Still Wicked - When the Dreaded MomentMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III Scene 1: Donny, Donny, Nan Is HereMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III Scene 1: That Will Do NowMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III Scene 1: Donny’s DreamMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III Scene 1: Pelegrin Is HereMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III: Interlude: Oh, If We Could See Them in Their SaucerMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III Scene 2: Dark, Dark, DarkMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III Scene 2: The Paradise DanceMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III Interlude: Dancers We Must Hurry, HurryMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III Scene 3: FinaleMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
New Year, Act III: Go, Go, Go - Time Must Stand StillMichael Tippett, Martyn Brabbins, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers
Michael Tippett was a pioneering English composer who left an indelible mark on 20th-century classical music. Emerging during the tumultuous years of the Second World War, Tippett's bold and innovative compositions quickly established him as a leading figure in British music, often mentioned in the same breath as his contemporary Benjamin Britten. His works, such as the profound oratorio "A Child of Our Time" and the enchanting opera "The Midsummer Marriage," showcase his unique voice and unyielding creativity. Tippett's music is a testament to his fearless imagination, often pushing the boundaries of what performers and audiences expected. His neoclassical style, while distinctly English, stands apart from his contemporaries, making his compositions instantly recognizable. Beyond his musical contributions, Tippett was also a passionate advocate for peace, serving as the President of the Peace Pledge Union. His legacy continues to inspire through the Michael Tippett Musical Foundation, which supports the music of future generations.
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Michael Tippett
