The Great EMI Recordings - Baroque and Pre-Baroque masterworks: Monteverdi, Scarlatti, Bach, Handel

Immerse yourself in the timeless artistry of Dame Janet Baker with "The Great EMI Recordings - Baroque and Pre-Baroque masterworks: Monteverdi, Scarlatti, Bach, Handel." This extraordinary collection, released on June 28, 2013, under the EMI Classics label, showcases Baker's unparalleled vocal prowess and emotional depth across a span of over four hours and thirty-two minutes. The album is a meticulously curated journey through the Baroque and Pre-Baroque eras, featuring iconic works by Monteverdi, Scarlatti, Bach, and Handel.

Janet Baker, renowned for her rich, resonant mezzo-soprano voice, delivers a captivating performance that spans a variety of genres, including opera, classical, and requiem. The tracklist is a testament to her versatility, encompassing laments, arias, recitatives, and chorales from some of the most celebrated compositions in classical music history. Highlights include moving renditions of Bach's "Ich habe genug" and "Gott soll allein mein Herz haben," as well as poignant pieces from Handel's "Messiah" and Monteverdi's "L'incoronazione di Poppea."

This album is a treasure trove for both longtime admirers of Janet Baker and those discovering her artistry for the first time. The recordings, originally captured under studio conditions, exemplify the engineering brilliance of EMI during its golden era. Each track is a masterclass in vocal technique and emotional expression, showcasing Baker's ability to convey the deepest human emotions through her music.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Great EMI Recordings" offers a profound and enriching listening experience. Janet Baker's performances are not just musical; they are deeply personal and evocative, making this collection a must-listen for anyone appreciating the beauty and complexity of Baroque and Pre-Baroque masterpieces.