The Harmonious Echo - Songs by Sir Arthur Sullivan - Arthur Sullivan

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Arthur Sullivan's vocal music with "The Harmonious Echo - Songs by Sir Arthur Sullivan." This captivating collection, released on April 30, 2021, under the Chandos label, offers a comprehensive exploration of Sullivan's art song repertoire, spanning his entire career. With a running time of 1 hour and 33 minutes, this double album features 23 tracks, each a testament to Sullivan's mastery of melody and harmony.

The album showcases a diverse range of Sullivan's compositions, from his early works like "I Heard the Nightingale" to later pieces such as "The Absent-Minded Beggar." The selections include arrangements for voice and piano, as well as pieces for four voices and piano, demonstrating Sullivan's versatility and innovation. Notable tracks like "King Henry's Song" and "The Lost Chord" highlight Sullivan's ability to craft memorable, evocative melodies that resonate with listeners.

Performed by a quartet of distinguished vocalists—Mary Bevan, Kitty Whately, Ben Johnson, and Ashley Riches—alongside pianist Iain Burnside, the album benefits from the ensemble's collective expertise and artistry. Their nuanced interpretations bring Sullivan's compositions to life, revealing the depth and beauty of his musical language.

"The Harmonious Echo" is an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's library, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Arthur Sullivan's work or a newcomer to his music, this album provides a compelling introduction to his vocal compositions and a delightful exploration of his artistic legacy.

30 april 2021

2021 Chandos Records

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.