Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Sir Peter Pears, one of the most celebrated English tenors of the 20th century, with this exquisite compilation released in 2001. This album, spanning a little over an hour and twenty minutes, is a testament to Pears' extraordinary vocal prowess and his enduring legacy in the realms of opera, requiem, choral, and classical music.
The album showcases Pears' remarkable versatility, featuring a diverse range of works from some of the most revered composers in history. From Benjamin Britten's powerful operas like "Peter Grimes" and "Death in Venice" to timeless classics such as Schubert's "Winterreise" and Bach's "Christmas Oratorio," each track is a masterclass in vocal artistry. Pears' collaboration with Britten, his personal and professional partner for nearly four decades, is particularly notable, with several tracks highlighting their profound musical connection.
The album opens with Britten's "Les Illuminations," a work that Pears premiered and performed extensively, followed by a selection of arias and songs that demonstrate his ability to convey deep emotion and nuance. Pears' rendition of traditional English folk songs like "The Foggy Foggy Dew" and "Early One Morning" provides a delightful contrast to the more dramatic pieces, showcasing his range and adaptability.
Sir Peter Pears' career was marked by his commitment to British vocal music, both opera, and song. His contributions to the premiere of many major English works are legendary, and this album serves as a beautiful tribute to his enduring influence. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Sir Peter Pears' musical legacy.
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: I. FanfareBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, English Chamber Orchestra
Les Illuminations, Op. 18: II. VillesBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, English Chamber Orchestra
Acis and Galatea, HWV 49 / Act I: Lo! Here my love!George Frideric Handel, Sir Peter Pears, Thurston Dart, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
Acis and Galatea, HWV 49 / Act I: Love in her eyes sits playingGeorge Frideric Handel, Thurston Dart, Sir Peter Pears, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult
Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 41 Aria "Ich will nur dir zu Ehren leben"Johann Sebastian Bach, Sir Peter Pears, Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra, Karl Münchinger
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 / Part 1: "Sanctus Fortis, Sanctus Deus"Edward Elgar, Sir Peter Pears, Choir of King's College, Cambridge, London Symphony Chorus, London Symphony Orchestra, Benjamin Britten
Serenade for tenor, horn & strings, Op. 31: DirgeBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, Boyd Neel Orchestra
L'Enfance du Christ, Op.25 / Partie 2: La fuite en Egypte: Les pèlerins étant venusHector Berlioz, Sir Peter Pears, The St. Anthony Singers, The Goldsbrough Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
The Fairy Queen, Z.629 - Ed. Britten, Holst, Pears / Act 1: "When a Cruel Long Winter"Henry Purcell, Sir Peter Pears, English Chamber Orchestra, Benjamin Britten
The Foggy Foggy DewTraditional, Sir Peter Pears, Benjamin Britten
Early One MorningTraditional, Sir Peter Pears, Benjamin Britten
It was a lover and his lasseThomas Morley, Sir Peter Pears, Julian Bream
What then is love but mourningPhilip Rosseter, Sir Peter Pears, Julian Bream
Winterreise, D.911: 1. Gute NachtFranz Schubert, Sir Peter Pears, Benjamin Britten
Winterreise, D.911: 11. FrühlingstraumFranz Schubert, Sir Peter Pears, Benjamin Britten
Winterreise, D.911: 24. Der LeiermannFranz Schubert, Sir Peter Pears, Benjamin Britten
Peter Grimes, Op. 33 / Act 1: "Now the Great Bear and Pleiades"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Marion Studholme, Iris Kells, Raymond Nilsson, James Pease, Jean Watson, Chorus of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden
Canticle I - My Beloved is Mine, Op. 40Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Death in Venice, Op. 88 / Act 1: "The Boy, Tadzio, Shall Inspire Me"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, English Chamber Orchestra, Steuart Bedford
Sir Peter Pears, born in Farnham in 1910, was an esteemed English tenor whose career was indelibly linked with the renowned composer Benjamin Britten. Their professional and personal partnership spanned nearly four decades, with Britten often composing roles specifically for Pears. Pears' exquisite vocal prowess made him an outstanding interpreter of Britten's works, notably in operas like "Peter Grimes." Beyond his collaborations with Britten, Pears was a talented musician in his own right, known for his performances in opera, requiem, choral, and classical genres. He co-founded the Aldeburgh Festival with Britten and was knighted for his contributions to music. Pears and Britten shared a home until Britten's death in 1976, and Pears passed away in the same home ten years later, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable musical achievements.
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Sir Peter Pears
