Experience the captivating artistry of Elina Garanca in her stunning live performances from the Salzburg Festival, captured in "Wagner: Wesendonck Lieder / Mahler: Rückert Lieder." This album, released on December 3, 2021, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, showcases Garanca's remarkable mezzo-soprano voice accompanied by the renowned Wiener Philharmoniker, conducted by the esteemed Christian Thielemann.
The album features a compelling selection of songs, beginning with Richard Wagner's "Wesendonck Lieder," a set of five songs composed for voice and piano, here orchestrated by Felix Mottl. These pieces, written during Wagner's exile in Switzerland, reflect his deep admiration for Mathilde Wesendonck, the wife of one of his patrons. The songs are performed live from Salzburg, offering an intimate glimpse into Garanca's powerful and nuanced interpretation.
Following the Wesendonck Lieder, the album presents Gustav Mahler's "Rückert Lieder," a cycle of songs based on poems by Friedrich Rückert. Mahler's compositions, characterized by their profound lyricism and intimate character, are brought to life with exquisite sensitivity by Garanca. The songs, composed at different times, are woven together to create a cohesive and moving musical experience.
This live recording, spanning just over 40 minutes, is a testament to the enduring power of live performance, capturing the magic of direct contact between performer and audience. Garanca's performances at the Salzburg Festival in the summers of 2020 and 2021 were highly praised by critics, and this album encapsulates the essence of those unforgettable concerts. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Vinylscout