Sullivan: H.M.S. Pinafore

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless wit and charm of Arthur Sullivan's "H.M.S. Pinafore," a delightful comic opera that has enchanted audiences for generations. Released in 2001 by Naxos, this album captures the essence of Sullivan's collaboration with librettist W.S. Gilbert, offering a delightful journey through the whimsical tale of love, class, and naval life.

With a runtime of just over an hour, this recording features the full score of "H.M.S. Pinafore," or "The Lass That Loved a Sailor," performed with precision and flair. The album includes all the beloved songs and arias, from the rousing "We Sail the Ocean Blue" to the poignant "Things Are Seldom What They Seem," and the iconic "A British Tar." Each track is meticulously performed, bringing to life the humor and heart of Gilbert and Sullivan's classic opera.

Arthur Sullivan's music, with its memorable melodies and intricate harmonies, is beautifully showcased in this recording. The album features a talented cast of vocalists who bring depth and nuance to their roles, accompanied by a full orchestra that captures the grandeur and playfulness of Sullivan's score. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the world of Gilbert and Sullivan, this album offers a captivating introduction to one of the most beloved works in the operatic canon.

14 oktober 2001

2001 Naxos

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.