Renée Fleming - Prelude to a Kiss

Renée Fleming, the renowned American soprano, presents a captivating collection of operatic and classical pieces in "Prelude to a Kiss," released in 1999. This album showcases Fleming's extraordinary vocal range and artistry, accompanied by the esteemed Chicago Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Daniel Barenboim, with special guest Plácido Domingo. The album spans a variety of genres within the classical realm, from operatic arias to beloved songs, all performed with Fleming's signature elegance and power.

The album opens with selections from Leonard Bernstein's "West Side Story," including the iconic "Tonight" and "Rumble," followed by a beautiful rendition of "Somewhere." Fleming's versatility is further highlighted in her performance of Charles Gounod's aria from "Faust," and the classic tango "El día que me quieras." The album also features a mix of traditional songs and operatic excerpts, such as the "Love Duet" from Verdi's "Otello" and the famous "Dein ist mein ganzes Herz" from "Das Land des Lächelns."

"Prelude to a Kiss" also includes several jazz standards arranged by Hamlisch, showcasing Fleming's ability to adapt to different musical styles. The album concludes with a lively performance of "Lippen schweigen" from "Die lustige Witwe," leaving the audience with a sense of the rich diversity of Fleming's repertoire. This album is a testament to Renée Fleming's status as one of the world's leading sopranos, offering a delightful blend of operatic and classical music that will enchant both opera enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike.