Dive into the enchanting world of Anna Prohaska's debut recital album, "Sirène," a mesmerizing collection of songs that showcase the soprano's remarkable vocal prowess and versatility. Released on Deutsche Grammophon in January 2010, this album features a captivating array of compositions that span centuries and styles, from the Baroque era to the Romantic period, and even includes contemporary works.
Accompanied by the delicate piano playing of Eric Schneider and the resonant lute of Simon Martyn-Ellis, Anna Prohaska navigates through a diverse repertoire that includes pieces by Gustav Mahler, Claude Debussy, John Dowland, and William Lawes, among others. The album's title, "Sirène," is a nod to the mesmerizing allure of the mythical sirens, reflecting the enchanting quality of Prohaska's voice and the captivating nature of the songs she performs.
"Sirène" opens with a hauntingly beautiful rendition of "Phantasie" from Tirso de Molina's "Don Juan," setting the stage for a journey through time and musical styles. Prohaska's voice shines in the delicate melodies of Verlaine's poems, the lullabies from Andersen's "The Little Mermaid," and the evocative songs of Mahler and Schubert. Her performance of the traditional English song "Sorrow, stay" and the enchanting "Die Meerfee" by Franz Liszt are particularly noteworthy, showcasing her ability to imbue each piece with depth and nuance.
Throughout the album, Prohaska's crystalline soprano soars effortlessly, demonstrating her technical skill and artistic sensitivity. The recording, made live at the Deutschlandfunk Kammermusiksaal in Cologne, captures the intimacy and immediacy of a live performance, allowing listeners to appreciate the subtleties of Prohaska's interpretation and the rich textures of the accompanying instruments.
"Sirène" is a testament to Anna Prohaska's artistry and her ability to bring new life to a diverse range of musical styles. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and power of the human voice.
Anna Prohaska is an acclaimed Austrian-British lyric soprano renowned for her captivating performances and deep musical insight. Based in Berlin, Prohaska has graced the stages of some of the world's most prestigious opera houses and collaborated with leading orchestras, earning her the title of "Singer of the Year" at the Opus Klassik 2024. Her repertoire spans from early music to contemporary works, showcasing her versatility and linguistic prowess. Offstage, Prohaska's passion for film music adds a unique dimension to her artistic persona. Her discography includes notable albums like 'Serpent & Fire,' which explores the Baroque responses to iconic female figures, and 'Maria Mater Meretrix,' a collaborative effort with violinist Patricia Kopatchinskaja. Prohaska's clean, crisp delivery and emotional depth make her a standout in the world of classical vocal performance.
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Anna Prohaska
