"Songs for Ariel" is a captivating collection of choral and vocal works performed by the renowned countertenor James Bowman. Released on November 15, 2005, under Satirino Records, this album spans a rich tapestry of classical, opera, and medieval genres, offering a diverse and enchanting musical experience. The album features a blend of traditional and contemporary pieces, showcasing Bowman's remarkable vocal range and interpretive skill.
The tracklist includes a mix of sacred and secular works, such as the hauntingly beautiful "Salve Regina" and the lively "Cantata 'Ho fuggito amore'," as well as settings of classic poems like "Down by the Salley Gardens" and "The Night." The album also features selections from Michael Tippett's "Songs for Ariel," a set of songs composed for the Old Vic, highlighting Bowman's versatility and depth as a performer. The album's duration of 58 minutes ensures a concise yet comprehensive exploration of these varied musical styles.
James Bowman, known for his distinctive countertenor voice, brings a sense of intimacy and clarity to each piece. His performance is accompanied by Kenneth Weiss on the harpsichord, adding a layer of historical authenticity and musical richness to the recordings. Whether you're a fan of classical music, opera, or medieval choral works, "Songs for Ariel" offers a compelling journey through some of the most beautiful and enduring vocal music of the past centuries.
(C) 2006 Satirino Records(P) 2006 Satirino Records
Tracks
Salve ReginaAnon, Anonymous, James Bowman
If my complaints could passions moveJohn Dowland, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Sweeter than rosesHenry Purcell, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Here the deities approveHenry Purcell, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
I attempt from loves sickness to fly in vainHenry Purcell, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Fairest IsleHenry Purcell, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Cantata 'Ho fuggito amore': Pt. 1George Frideric Handel, Paolo Rolli, Kenneth Weiss, James Bowman
Cantata 'Ho fuggito amore': Pt. 2George Frideric Handel, Paolo Rolli, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Aria 'Tacero, pur che fedele'George Frideric Handel, Vincenzo Grimani, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
A Hymn to the VirginEdmund Rubbra, Anonymous, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
The Woodcutter's SongRalph Vaughan Williams, John Bunyan, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
I know a bankBenjamin Britten, Shakespeare, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Down by the Salley GardensBenjamin Britten, William Butler Yeats, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
The NightPeter Warlock, Hilaire Belloc, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Come unto these yellow sands (from Songs for Ariel)Michael Tippett, Shakespeare, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Full fathom five (from Songs for Ariel)Michael Tippett, Shakespeare, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
Where the bee sucks (from Songs for Ariel)Michael Tippett, Shakespeare, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss
King DavidHerbert Howells, Walter De La Mare, Kenneth Weiss, James Bowman
Epithaph for Salomon PaveyAndrew Gant, Ben Jonson, James Bowman, Kenneth Weiss