Previn: Honey & Rue / Barber: Knoxville / Gershwin: Porgy and Bess

Experience the enchanting vocals of Kathleen Battle in this captivating album, featuring a blend of opera, choral, and classical genres. Released on January 1, 1995, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album showcases Battle's extraordinary range and artistry. The album is a collaboration with the Orchestra of St. Luke's, conducted by the renowned André Previn.

The album opens with "Honey and Rue," a cycle of songs composed by André Previn, featuring six tracks that highlight Battle's delicate and expressive voice. The album then transitions to Samuel Barber's "Knoxville: Summer of 1915," a poignant and evocative setting of James Agee's prose, where Battle's vocal prowess shines in a more dramatic context. The album concludes with two beloved selections from George Gershwin's iconic opera "Porgy and Bess," "Summertime" and "I Loves You, Porgy," offering a taste of Battle's ability to infuse classic songs with fresh vitality.

With a duration of 45 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful showcase of Kathleen Battle's vocal talents, accompanied by the exquisite playing of the Orchestra of St. Luke's. Whether you're a fan of opera, choral music, or classical music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Kathleen Battle, the acclaimed American operatic soprano, is renowned for her distinctive vocal range and tone, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique artistry. Born in Portsmouth, Ohio, Battle's journey began with concert performances in the 1970s, leading to her opera debut in 1975. Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, she expanded her repertoire to include both lyric and coloratura soprano roles, earning five Grammy Awards and becoming one of the finest coloratura sopranos of her time. Known for her enchanting performances of sweet, serene, and ecstatic music, Battle's voice is often described as light, high, and airy, with a childlike readiness that mesmerizes audiences. Despite her dismissal from the Metropolitan Opera in 1994, Battle has continued to inspire and mentor young singers, returning to the Met stage in 2016 and 2024 for memorable performances. Her discography spans opera, choral, and classical genres, showcasing her remarkable talent and enduring legacy.