Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant voice of the legendary contralto Kathleen Ferrier with this captivating album, released by Urania in 2004. This collection showcases Ferrier's extraordinary range and depth, featuring a blend of opera and classical pieces that highlight her mastery of both genres.
The album opens with Alto Rhapsody, Op. 53, a powerful and dramatic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Ferrier's voice soars and resonates, demonstrating her ability to convey deep emotion and intensity. The centerpiece of the album is Brahms' Vier ernste Gesänge, Op. 121, a set of four serious songs that explore themes of mortality and the human condition. Ferrier's interpretation is both moving and profound, showcasing her ability to connect with the listener on a deeply personal level.
The album also features Chausson's Poème de l'amour et de la mer, Op. 19, a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases Ferrier's ability to convey both tenderness and passion. The album concludes with two arias by Bach, Vergiss mein nicht, BWV 505 and Ach, dass nicht die letzte Stunde, BWV 439, which provide a fitting and poignant conclusion to this remarkable collection.
Throughout the album, Ferrier is accompanied by some of the finest orchestras and conductors of her time, including the Vienna Symphony and Sir John Barbirolli. The result is a collection that is both technically impressive and deeply moving, a testament to Ferrier's enduring legacy as one of the greatest singers of the 20th century. Whether you are a longtime fan of Ferrier or a newcomer to her work, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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