Franz Lehár's "Lehár: The Land of Smiles" is a captivating operetta that transports you to a world of romance and intrigue. Originally composed in 1929, this English rendition, released in 1996 by Telarc, is conducted by the renowned Richard Bonynge and performed by the English Chamber Orchestra. The album spans three acts and twenty tracks, totaling an hour and eighteen minutes of enchanting music.
The operetta, initially a revision of "Die gelbe Jacke," unfolds a tale of love and cultural clash between an Austrian prince and a Chinese princess. Lehár's composition is a blend of lively, melodic tunes and poignant arias, showcasing his mastery of the operetta genre. From the overture's grand opening to the final notes of "The Sun Which Shines Here," each track is a testament to Lehár's ability to evoke a range of emotions through his music.
This album is a must-listen for fans of classical and operetta music, offering a rich auditory experience that highlights the timeless appeal of Lehár's work. The English Chamber Orchestra's performance brings a fresh perspective to this classic piece, making it a valuable addition to any music collection. Whether you're a seasoned operetta enthusiast or new to the genre, "Lehár: The Land of Smiles" promises an engaging and enjoyable listening experience.
The Land of Smiles: OvertureFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: Introduction and Entrance. Three Cheers for Lisa!Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Nancy Gustafson, London Voices, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: This Isn't the Only TimeFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: I Tremble Whenever I Enter This RoomFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: Now Will You Join Me in a Little Cup of Tea?Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: Before the Window of My BelovedFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act I: Finale. We Are AloneFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: PreludeFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: Entrance of Sou ChongFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra
The Land of Smiles, Act II: Ah, Who Has Given Us Our Dream Come True?Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Nancy Gustafson
The Land of Smiles, Act II: In Pagodas 'Cross the NationFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: "Love" for Me, and "Love" for YouFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: My Heart Belongs to You!Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: I Long for My Homeland, So Far AwayFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: Chinese Wedding ProcessionFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act II: Finale. I Forbid You to Go!Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act III: Love Cannot FailFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Nancy Gustafson, Richard Bonynge, London Voices
The Land of Smiles, Act III: Zig, Zig, Zig!Franz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Lynton Atkinson, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act III: It's Strange How Happiness So Quickly FadesFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
The Land of Smiles, Act III: Finale. The Sun Which Shines HereFranz Lehár, English Chamber Orchestra, Jerry Hadley, Lynton Atkinson, Nancy Gustafson, Naomi Itami, Richard Bonynge
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