Anne-Sofie von Otter - Folksongs

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of folk music with Anne Sofie von Otter's captivating album "Folksongs." This exquisite collection, released under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon (DG) label, showcases von Otter's remarkable versatility and artistry. Spanning a diverse range of cultures and languages, the album is a testament to the universal language of music, featuring pieces from German, Swedish, Venetian, Hungarian, and French traditions.

The album opens with Antonín Dvořák's "Ciganské melodie" (Gypsy Melodies), Op. 55, sung in German, offering a rich and evocative start to the journey. Von Otter's velvety voice brings a sense of warmth and intimacy to these timeless melodies. The album then seamlessly transitions into a variety of folk songs, each one a gem in its own right. From the hauntingly beautiful "The Sprig of Thyme" to the lively "British Waterside (or The Jolly Sailor)," von Otter's interpretations are both sensitive and nuanced, capturing the essence of each piece with remarkable precision.

One of the highlights of the album is the section dedicated to Hungarian folk music, featuring 62 settings that showcase von Otter's ability to convey a wide range of emotions. The songs range from the playful "From the tree an apple fell" to the poignant "A Little Sad Song," each one a testament to von Otter's exceptional vocal control and expressive power.

The album also includes a selection of French folksongs, arranged with exquisite sensitivity. From the joyous "La Noel passée" to the melancholic "Fileuse," von Otter's interpretations are both technically impressive and deeply moving. The final track, "Quand j'étais chez mon père," leaves the listener with a sense of warmth and contentment, a perfect conclusion to this remarkable journey through the world of folk music.

With a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, "Folksongs" is a rich and rewarding listening experience. Anne Sofie von Otter's exceptional artistry and versatility shine through in every note, making this album a true celebration of the power and beauty of folk music.