Serpent & Fire: Arias for Dido & Cleopatra

Anna Prohaska, the renowned soprano, invites you into the dramatic worlds of two iconic queens with her album "Serpent & Fire: Arias for Dido & Cleopatra." Released on Alpha Classics in 2016, this captivating collection spans a little over an hour and features a stunning array of arias and instrumental pieces that celebrate the legacies of Dido and Cleopatra. Prohaska's powerful vocals are accompanied by the exquisite period instrument ensemble Il Giardino Armonico, conducted by Giovanni Antonini, ensuring an authentic and rich musical experience.

The album is a rich tapestry of compositions by various Baroque masters, including Henry Purcell, Johann Adolf Hasse, and Georg Philipp Telemann, among others. It opens with the haunting overture from Purcell's "Dido and Aeneas" and journeys through arias that highlight the passion, despair, and triumph of its titular queens. Prohaska's rendition of "Ah! Belinda, I Am Press'd with Torment" from Purcell's masterpiece is particularly noteworthy, showcasing her ability to convey deep sorrow and longing.

In addition to the operatic arias, the album includes instrumental pieces such as the "Sonata decimaquinta a quattro" by Giovanni Benedetto Platti and the "Passacaille del seigneur Louigi" by Louis Marchand. These compositions add depth and variety to the album, providing a respite from the vocal performances while maintaining the overall theme of royal drama and intrigue.

"Serpent & Fire" is not just a collection of beautiful arias; it is a testament to Anna Prohaska's versatility and mastery of Baroque repertoire. Her performance is both technically impressive and deeply expressive, making this album a standout in her discography. Whether you are a fan of Baroque opera or simply appreciate exquisite vocal performances, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.