Rutland Boughton's "The Queen of Cornwall" is a captivating opera that delves into the tragic tale inspired by Thomas Hardy's play. Composed with the ambition to create an English Wagnerian experience, this two-act opera is a testament to Boughton's musical prowess and storytelling ability. The album, released in 2010 under the Dutton label, spans an impressive 1 hour and 53 minutes, featuring 21 tracks that weave a rich tapestry of drama and emotion.
The opera is performed by the London Chorus and the New London Orchestra, conducted by Ronald Corp, who is renowned for his contributions to British choral music. The piece is divided into two acts, each filled with powerful choruses, arias, and ensembles that bring to life the story of the Queen of Cornwall. Notable tracks include "Act 1: Where Is The Queen?" and "Act 2: O Murderer," which showcase the depth and range of the composition.
Boughton's work is notable for its intricate orchestration and the way it blends traditional operatic elements with a distinctly English flavor. The Queen of Cornwall is not just a retelling of Hardy's tragedy but a standalone musical masterpiece that stands on its own merits. Whether you are an opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and immersive listening experience that highlights the enduring power of storytelling through music.
(C) 2010 Dutton(P) 2010 Dutton
Tracks
Act 1: Chorus Of Shades Of Dead Old Cornish Men And WomenRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: Where Is The Queen?Rutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: No Foot, I Swear, Set I In BrittanyRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: Why Did Heav'n Warrant In Its Whim?Rutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: How Little He KnowsRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: I Dream That The Dearest I Ever Knew Had DiedRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: Could He But Live For Me A DayRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: Maybe Indeed He Did Not DieRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: When I Set Out For LyonesseRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: O, The Opal And The SapphireRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 1: Let's Meet Again Tonight, My FairRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: PreludeRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: A Ship Sheers Round, And Brings Up In The BayRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: I Saw Them Coming Down To Learn My ErrandRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: So, After All, Am I To Share YouRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: If It's Ever Spring AgainRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: Yea, Love, True Is It Sadness Suits Me BestRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: O MurdererRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: No Sight Nor Sound Of HerRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: Indulge No More May We In That Sweet Bitter PastimeRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
Act 2: Chorus Of Shades Of Dead Old Cornish Men And WomenRutland Boughton, The London Chorus, New London Orchestra, Ronald Corp
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