Dive into the rich and powerful world of opera with "The Worst of William Powers," a captivating compilation released on March 1, 2011, by Centaur Records. This album showcases the extraordinary talent of William Powers, a renowned bass-baritone, accompanied by the Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Dennis Burkh. Spanning a mere 53 minutes, this collection is a testament to Powers' versatility and mastery of the operatic repertoire.
The album features a diverse array of arias and ensembles from some of the most celebrated operas in history. From Puccini's intense "Tosca" to Verdi's dramatic "Attila," and from Rossini's witty "Il barbiere di Siviglia" to Gounod's haunting "Faust," each track offers a glimpse into the depth and breadth of Powers' vocal prowess. The inclusion of lesser-known works like Eugen d'Albert's "Tiefland" and Lee Hoiby's "The Tempest" adds a unique flavor to the collection, making it a treasure trove for both opera enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.
"The Worst of William Powers" is not just a compilation of songs; it's a journey through the evolution of opera, highlighting the timeless beauty and emotional resonance of the art form. Powers' commanding presence and the orchestral brilliance of the Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra create an immersive experience that is both thrilling and deeply moving. Whether you're a seasoned opera aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
2011 Centaur Records, Inc.2011 Centaur Records, Inc.
Tracks
Tosca, S. 69, Tosca, Act II: Tosca e un buon falco!Giacomo Puccini, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Mefistofele, Act I: The Pact: Son lo Spirito che negaArrigo Boito, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Attila, Act I: Aria. Mentre gonfiarsi l'anima - Oltre quel limite t'attendoGiuseppe Verdi, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Robert le Diable (Robert the Devil), Act III: Nonnes, qui reposezGiacomo Meyerbeer, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Il barbiere di Siviglia (the Barber of Seville), Act I: Aria. A un dottor della mia sorteGioachino Rossini, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Boris Godunov, Boris Godunov, Act II: Clock Scene - Uf, tyazhelo! (1872 Version)Modest Mussorgsky, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Les contes d'Hoffmann (the Tales of Hoffmann): Prologue: Dans les roles d'amoureux langoureuxJacques Offenbach, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Les Huguenots, Act I: Seigneur, rempart et seul soultienGiacomo Meyerbeer, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Falstaff, Act II: Quand' ero paggioGiuseppe Verdi, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Faust, CG 4, Faust, Act IV: Vous qui faites l'endormireCharles Gounod, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
Tiefland: Tanz! Sag ich dirEugen d'Albert, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
La Cenerentola (Cinderella), Act II: Intendente? Reggitor?Gioachino Rossini, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
I vespri siciliani, Act II: O tu PalermoGiuseppe Verdi, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh
The Tempest, Act II: Beseech you sir, be merryLee Hoiby, William Powers, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Dennis Burkh