Dive into the captivating world of classical music with Bright Sheng's compelling album, "Bernstein - Barber - Diamond." Released on April 3, 2012, under the prestigious Naxos label, this album is a testament to Sheng's mastery in arranging and conducting. The album features a unique blend of vocal and instrumental pieces, showcasing the talents of a mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings, and percussion.
The centerpiece of the album is "Arias and Barcarolles," a collection of eight pieces arranged by Bright Sheng. This suite offers a rich tapestry of emotions and stories, from the tender "Love Duet" to the lively "Oif Mayn Khas'ne (At My Wedding)." Each piece is a jewel in its own right, demonstrating Sheng's ability to bring out the best in both the performers and the compositions.
In addition to the "Arias and Barcarolles," the album also includes two standout pieces: "The School for Scandal, Overture, Op. 5" and "Elegy in Memory of Maurice Ravel." These works further highlight Sheng's versatility and depth as a conductor and arranger.
With a duration of 46 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the world of classical music for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts. Bright Sheng's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions make this album a standout in any music collection. Whether you're in the mood for something soothing or something lively, "Bernstein - Barber - Diamond" has something to offer.
2012 Naxos2012 Naxos
Tracks
Arias and Barcarolles (arr. Bright Sheng for mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings and percussion): No. 1. PreludeBright Sheng, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Bunnell, Dale Duesing, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
Arias and Barcarolles (arr. Bright Sheng for mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings and percussion): No. 2. Love DuetBright Sheng, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Bunnell, Dale Duesing, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
Arias and Barcarolles (arr. Bright Sheng for mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings and percussion): No. 3. Little SmaryBright Sheng, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Bunnell, Dale Duesing, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
Arias and Barcarolles (arr. Bright Sheng for mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings and percussion): No. 4. The Love of My LifeBright Sheng, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Bunnell, Dale Duesing, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
Arias and Barcarolles (arr. Bright Sheng for mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings and percussion): No. 5. GreetingBright Sheng, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Bunnell, Dale Duesing, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
Arias and Barcarolles (arr. Bright Sheng for mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings and percussion): No. 6. Oif Mayn Khas'ne (At My Wedding)Bright Sheng, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Bunnell, Dale Duesing, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
Arias and Barcarolles (arr. Bright Sheng for mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings and percussion): No. 7. Mr. and Mrs. Webb Say GoodnightBright Sheng, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Bunnell, Dale Duesing, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
Arias and Barcarolles (arr. Bright Sheng for mezzo-soprano, baritone, strings and percussion): No. 8. NachspielBright Sheng, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Bunnell, Dale Duesing, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
The School for Scandal, Overture, Op. 5Samuel Barber, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz
Elegy in Memory of Maurice RavelDavid Diamond, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz