Greta Bradman, one of Australasia's most celebrated operatic and concert artists, makes a stunning debut with "My Hero," her first album released under Decca Classics. Conducted by the renowned Richard Bonynge and accompanied by the English Chamber Orchestra, this album is a testament to Bradman's extraordinary vocal prowess and her deep appreciation for the operatic tradition.
"My Hero" is named after an aria from Oscar Straus's operetta "The Chocolate Soldier," and it serves as a tribute to many of Greta Bradman's musical heroes. The album features a diverse selection of arias and songs that showcase Bradman's versatility and technical brilliance. From the dramatic intensity of "Norma" by Vincenzo Bellini to the lyrical beauty of "Die Entführung aus dem Serail" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, each piece is performed with a level of artistry that captivates and inspires.
The tracklist includes iconic works such as "Casta Diva" from "Norma," "Una voce poco fa" from "Il barbiere di Siviglia" by Gioachino Rossini, and "I Dreamt I Dwelt in Marble Halls" from "The Bohemian Girl" by Michael William Balfe. The album also features lesser-known but equally enchanting pieces like "Kaiserin Josephine" and "Cherry Ripe," adding a touch of novelty to the collection.
With a duration of 76 minutes, "My Hero" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Greta Bradman's powerful soprano, combined with the exquisite playing of the English Chamber Orchestra, creates a harmonious blend that resonates with both opera enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. This album is a celebration of the operatic legacy and a showcase of Greta Bradman's remarkable talent, making it a standout release in the world of classical music.
The Chocolate Soldier (Der Tapfere Soldat) / Act 1: My HeroOscar Straus, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Hérodiade / Act 1: "Il est doux, il est bon"Jules Massenet, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Carmen / Act 3: "C'est les contrabandiers...Je dis que rien ne m'épouvante"Georges Bizet, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Bohemian Girl / Act 2: "I Dreamt I Dwelt in Marble Halls"Michael William Balfe, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Norma / Act 1: "Casta Diva"Vincenzo Bellini, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Norma / Act 1: "Ah! bello a me ritorna"Vincenzo Bellini, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Il Trovatore / Act 4: "Vanne, lasciami...D'amor sull ali rosee"Giuseppe Verdi, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Il barbiere di Siviglia / Act 1: "Una voce poco fa"Gioachino Rossini, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Die Entführung aus dem Serail, K.384 / Act 1: "Ach ich liebte, war so glücklich"Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
L'Anima del Filosofo (Orfeo ed Euridice), Hob: XXVIII:13 / Act 1: "Filomena abbandonata"Joseph Haydn, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Rodelinda, HWV 19: "Ombre, piante, urne funeste"George Frideric Handel, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Rodelinda, HWV 19: "Morrai, sì; l'empia tua testa"George Frideric Handel, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Cherry RipeCharles Edward Horn, Greta Bradman, Richard Bonynge, English Chamber Orchestra
I vespri siciliani / Act 5: "Mercè, dilette amiche"Giuseppe Verdi, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Kaiserin Josephine / Act 1: "Mein Traum, mein Traum"Emmerich Kálmán, Greta Bradman, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
EdelweissRichard Rodgers, Greta Bradman
When You Wish Upon a StarNed Washington, Greta Bradman, Richard Bonynge, English Chamber Orchestra