Immerse yourself in the profound and resonant voice of Thomas Quasthoff with his album "Betrachte, meine Seel," released on January 1, 2006, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. This operatic masterpiece spans a rich tapestry of sacred and spiritual compositions, showcasing Quasthoff's extraordinary range and emotional depth.
The album features a meticulously curated selection of pieces from some of the most revered works in classical music, including Bach's "Christmas Oratorio," "St. John Passion," and "St. Matthew Passion," as well as Handel's "Messiah." Quasthoff's interpretation of these timeless classics is both powerful and nuanced, offering a fresh perspective on familiar melodies.
In addition to these iconic works, the album also includes selections from Haydn's "Die Jahreszeiten" (The Seasons), Beethoven's "The Creation," and Mendelssohn's "Elijah" and "Paulus." These pieces, performed with Quasthoff's signature artistry, highlight his versatility and mastery of the operatic form.
The album concludes with two spirituals, "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" and "Deep River," arranged by Friedrich Meyer. These pieces provide a poignant and reflective end to the collection, showcasing Quasthoff's ability to convey deep emotion and spirituality through his music.
With a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, "Betrachte, meine Seel" is a testament to Thomas Quasthoff's extraordinary talent and his ability to bring new life to some of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 / Pt. 1 - For the First Day of Christmas: No. 8 "Großer Herr, o starker König"Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 / Part Three - For the third Day of Christmas: No. 29 Duett (Sopran, Baß): "Herr, dein Mitleid, dein Erbarmen"Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Sibylla Rubens, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
St. John Passion, BWV 245 / Part Two: 31. Arioso: "Betrachte, meine Seel"Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
St. John Passion, BWV 245 / Part Two: No.32 Aria (baß) - Chorus: " Mein teurer Heiland "Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle, Chor der Staatsoper Dresden, Matthias Brauer
St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244 / Pt. 2: No. 75 Aria (Bass): "Mache dich, mein Herze, rein"Johann Sebastian Bach, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Messiah / Part 3: 45. Behold, I tell you a mystery - 46. Aria: The trumpet shall soundGeorge Frideric Handel, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Die Jahreszeiten - Hob. XXI:3 / Der Frühling: Nos.3&4 "Vom Widder strahlet jetzt"-"Schon eilet froh"Joseph Haydn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Die Jahreszeiten - Hob. XXI:3 / Der Winter: No. 38 Arie/Rez.: "Erblicke hier, betörter Mensch"Joseph Haydn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
The Creation (Die Schöpfung) / Part 1 (Sung in German): Und Gott sprach...Rollend in schäumenden WellenJoseph Haydn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Elijah, Op. 70, MWV A25 - German Text / Part 1: No. 14: "Herr Gott Abrahams"Felix Mendelssohn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Elijah, Op. 70, MWV A25 - German Text / Part 2: No. 26 "Es ist genug! So nimm nun, Herr"Felix Mendelssohn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Paulus, Op. 36, MWV A14 / Part 1: No. 18 Arie: "Gott, sei mir gnädig"Felix Mendelssohn, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot - Arr. Friedrich MeyerTraditional, Thomas Quasthoff, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sebastian Weigle
Deep River - Arr. Friedrich MeyerAnonymous, Thomas Quasthoff, Chor der Staatsoper Dresden, Matthias Brauer