The Silver Sound of Emma Kirkby

Album Description

Experience the enchanting vocal artistry of Emma Kirkby in "The Silver Sound of Emma Kirkby," a captivating collection of classical, choral, and operatic masterpieces. This album, released on Warner Classics in 2000, showcases Kirkby's renowned soprano voice in a diverse range of compositions that span centuries and styles.

The album begins with a powerful aria from Handel's "Messiah," followed by a selection of his Nine German Arias, each demonstrating Kirkby's ability to convey both joy and introspection. The inclusion of pieces from Handel's "Armida abbandonata" and Bach's "Himmelfahrtsoratorium" further highlights her versatility and mastery of Baroque repertoire.

Kirkby's repertoire extends beyond the Baroque era, with selections from early Italian works such as "Una stravaganza dei Medici" and Monteverdi's "Madrigals, Book 8." The album also features a stunning performance of Purcell's "Hail! Bright Cecilia," showcasing Kirkby's ability to bring historical music to life with her crystalline tone and expressive phrasing.

The album concludes with another aria from Handel's "Messiah," tying the collection together and leaving the listener with a sense of the profound beauty and skill that Emma Kirkby brings to her performances. With a duration of just over an hour, "The Silver Sound of Emma Kirkby" is a testament to the enduring power of classical vocal music and the timeless talent of its performer.

1 jan 2000

℗ This compilation 2000 by EMI Records Ltd

About Emma Kirkby

Dame Emma Kirkby, DBE, is an acclaimed English soprano renowned for her mastery of early music. Born in Camberley, Surrey, Kirkby's journey into the world of music began as a classics student at Oxford, where she sang for pleasure in choirs and small groups, particularly drawn to Renaissance and Baroque repertoire. Her professional career took off when she joined the Taverner Choir in 1971, leading to a long and fruitful association with the Consort of Musicke and other pioneering ensembles in historically informed performance.

Kirkby's warm, flexible voice has graced over 100 recordings, showcasing her expertise in Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical music. Her performances are celebrated for their lightness, brilliance, and emotional depth, making her a favorite among classical music enthusiasts worldwide. Kirkby's contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Order of the British Empire in 2000. Beyond her musical achievements, Kirkby's engaging personality and insightful approaches to singing have made her a beloved figure in the classical music community. Whether performing in grand concert halls or intimate venues, Kirkby's performances are always a captivating experience.