Sullivan: Yeomen of the Guard

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of Arthur Sullivan's timeless operatic masterpiece with "Sullivan: Yeomen of the Guard." This captivating album, released on June 8, 2004, under the prestigious Naxos label, offers a rich tapestry of Sullivan's unparalleled musical genius. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 43 minutes, featuring a meticulously curated selection of tracks that showcase the depth and breadth of Sullivan's compositional prowess.

"Yeomen of the Guard" is a cornerstone of the operatic repertoire, renowned for its intricate melodies and witty libretto by W.S. Gilbert. The album opens with the stirring "Overture," setting the stage for a series of enchanting arias and choruses that transport the listener through the intricate plot and vibrant characters of the opera. Highlights include the poignant "When maiden loves" performed by Phoebe, the lively "Tower warders, under orders" by the Chorus, and the reflective "Is life a boon?" by Colonel Fairfax.

In addition to the main opera, the album also includes excerpts from other beloved works by Arthur Sullivan, such as "The Mikado," "The Gondoliers," and "Iolanthe." These selections provide a delightful contrast and showcase Sullivan's versatility as a composer. The album is a testament to Sullivan's enduring legacy, offering both seasoned opera enthusiasts and newcomers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and complexity of his music.

The album features a stellar cast and orchestra, bringing Sullivan's compositions to life with precision and passion. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Arthur Sullivan's work or a curious explorer of the operatic genre, "Sullivan: Yeomen of the Guard" is an essential addition to your music collection.

8 juni 2004

2004 Naxos

2004 (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.