Wagner: Wesendonck Lieder / Mahler: Rückert Lieder

Album Description

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.

3 december 2021

℗ 2021 Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Elina Garanca

Elīna Garanča, the acclaimed Latvian mezzo-soprano, has captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful and expressive performances. Born in Riga, Garanča's journey began with her vocal studies in her hometown, which she continued in Vienna and the United States. Her breakthrough came with her performances at the 2003 Salzburg Festival, leading to a remarkable international career. Garanča has graced the stages of the world's leading opera houses, symphony orchestras, and recital halls, earning her a place among today's great operatic artists. Her repertoire spans a wide range of roles, from the seductive Carmen to the dramatic Amneris, showcasing her vocal allure and intense stage presence. Garanča's dedication to her craft has been recognized with numerous awards, including the title of Kammersängerin from the Vienna State Opera. Beyond her performances, she is also committed to nurturing young talent through her initiative "ZukunftsStimmen." With her noble tone and penetrating artistry, Garanča continues to enchant audiences and solidify her status as a major star in the opera world.