Sullivan: Pirates of Penzance / Trial by Jury

Album Description

Dive into the world of Victorian operetta with Arthur Sullivan's "Sullivan: Pirates of Penzance / Trial by Jury," a captivating collection of two of Gilbert and Sullivan's most celebrated works. Released in 2002 by Naxos, this album offers a delightful blend of humor, satire, and memorable melodies that have stood the test of time.

"The Pirates of Penzance" is a comedic gem that follows the misadventures of a band of tender-hearted pirates and their apprentice, Frederic, who finds himself torn between his duty to the pirates and his love for the Major-General's daughter, Mabel. With its witty dialogue and enchanting tunes, this operetta is a delight from start to finish. Standout moments include the iconic "I am the very model of a modern Major-General" and the rousing "With cat-like tread."

Complementing "The Pirates of Penzance" is "Trial by Jury," a one-act opera that pokes fun at the British legal system. This satirical masterpiece features Gilbert's sharp wit and Sullivan's catchy melodies, making it a perfect companion to the longer operetta. Highlights include the plaintive "When first my old, old love I knew" and the humorous "Oh, gentlemen, listen, I pray."

With a total duration of 1 hour and 46 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of Victorian entertainment. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Arthur Sullivan's "Sullivan: Pirates of Penzance / Trial by Jury" promises an enjoyable and engaging experience. The album features a talented cast and orchestra, bringing these classic works to life with charm and vitality.

14 maart 2002

2002 Naxos

2002 (P) 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.