Ivor Novello's 'The Dancing Years / King's Rhapsody' is a captivating collection of musical masterpieces, showcasing the renowned British composer's most beloved works. This enchanting album, released on 1 February 2005 by Naxos, brings together two of Novello's most iconic operettas, 'The Dancing Years' and 'King's Rhapsody', which have been delighting audiences since their premieres in 1939 and 1950, respectively.
'The Dancing Years', set in Vienna from 1911 to 1938, tells the poignant tale of a Jewish composer and his love for two women from different social classes, set against the backdrop of Nazi persecution. The album features an array of captivating tracks from this operetta, including 'Leap Year Waltz', 'My Life Belongs to You', and 'Waltz of My Heart'.
'King's Rhapsody', on the other hand, is an extravaganza set in Regency England, boasting an impressive 839 performances at the Palace Theatre. This operetta's tracks, such as 'Someday My Heart Will Awake' and 'Fly Home Little Heart', demonstrate Novello's mastery of crafting memorable and emotive melodies.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of Ivor Novello's compositional genius, featuring a range of talented vocalists, including Olive Gilbert, Roma Beaumont, and Mary Ellis, accompanied by the Drury Lane Theatre Orchestra. 'The Dancing Years / King's Rhapsody' is a must-listen for fans of operetta and musical theatre, offering a unique glimpse into the captivating world of Ivor Novello's creations.
Vinylscout