Sullivan, A.: Gondoliers / the Mikado / the Yeomen of the Guard

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gilbert and Sullivan with this exquisite collection of Arthur Sullivan's operatic masterpieces. Released in 2004 under The Gift of Music label, this album spans a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, offering a delightful journey through three of Sullivan's most beloved works: "The Gondoliers," "The Mikado," and "The Yeomen of the Guard."

"The Gondoliers" opens the album with its lively and humorous scenes, showcasing Sullivan's knack for creating memorable melodies and witty lyrics. The album then transitions to "The Mikado," one of the most famous and frequently performed comic operas, featuring iconic songs like "A Wand'ring Minstrel I" and "Three Little Maids from School." The album concludes with "The Yeomen of the Guard," a tale of love and intrigue set in the Tower of London, featuring standout tracks like "I Have a Song to Sing, O!" and "Were I Thy Bride."

Conducted by Isidore Godfrey and featuring the renowned D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Gilbert and Sullivan's collaborations. Arthur Sullivan, the English composer behind these timeless works, is celebrated for his unique blend of humor, romance, and social commentary, all beautifully encapsulated in this album. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection promises a captivating and enjoyable listening experience.

1 jan 2004

2004 The Gift of Music

About Arthur Sullivan

Sir Arthur Seymour Sullivan, born in Lambeth in 1842, was a prodigious English composer whose musical genius was evident from a young age. By eight, he could play all the wind instruments in his father's band, and his first anthem was already composed. Sullivan's career spanned a wide range of genres, but he is most celebrated for his collaborations with the dramatist W.S. Gilbert. Together, they created fourteen iconic comic operas, including the beloved "H.M.S. Pinafore," "The Pirates of Penzance," and "The Mikado," which remain staples of the operatic repertoire.

Beyond his famous partnership with Gilbert, Sullivan's compositions include 24 operas, 11 major orchestral works, choral pieces, ballets, and numerous hymns and songs. His choral work "The Golden Legend" was once second only to Handel's "Messiah" in popularity. Sullivan's personal life was marked by a notable liaison with American socialite Mary Frances Ronalds, with whom he maintained a discreet but close relationship. Despite his prolific output and renown during his lifetime, Sullivan's serious works are less frequently performed today, overshadowed by the enduring popularity of his comic operas with Gilbert. His legacy endures as one of the most prolific and influential composers of the Victorian era.