Barbara Hendricks, the renowned soprano known for her exquisite vocal prowess and versatility, presents "Endless Pleasure," a captivating journey through the world of opera and classical music. Released on October 15, 2007, under the Arte Verum label, this album is a testament to Hendricks' artistry, showcasing her ability to bring depth and nuance to a diverse range of compositions.
Spanning a little over an hour and fourteen minutes, "Endless Pleasure" features a meticulously curated selection of tracks from some of the most celebrated works in the classical and operatic canon. The album opens with Henry Purcell's "Oedipus, Z. 583: No. 2, Music for a while," setting the stage for a rich tapestry of arias and instrumental pieces. Hendricks' voice shines brightly in tracks like "Where'er You Walk" from "Semele" and "V'adoro, pupille" from "Giulio Cesare," demonstrating her remarkable range and emotional resonance.
The album also includes a substantial suite from "Terpsichore" by George Frideric Handel, offering a delightful blend of instrumental and vocal pieces that highlight Hendricks' ability to navigate both dramatic and lyrical passages with equal finesse. Her rendition of "When I am laid in earth" from "Dido and Aeneas" is particularly poignant, showcasing her ability to convey profound emotion through her singing.
"Endless Pleasure" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a showcase of Barbara Hendricks' extraordinary talent and her deep connection to the classical and operatic traditions. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the timeless beauty of these compositions.
2007 Arte Verum2007 Arte Verum
Tracks
Oedipus, Z. 583: No. 2, Music for a whileHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Pausanias, Z. 585: No. 1, Sweeter than rosesHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
If Music Be the Food of Love, Z. 379 (1692 Version)Henry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
If Music Be the Food of Love, Z. 379Henry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
The Comical History of Don Quixote, Z. 578, Act V, Scene 1: From rosy bowersHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Lord What is Man ?, Z. 192Henry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Semele, HWV 58, Act II, Scene 2: Oh Sleep, Why Dost Thou Leave Me?George Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Semele, HWV 58, Act II, Scene 3: Where’er You WalkGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Semele, HWV 58, Act I, Scene 4: Endless PleasureGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Atalanta, HWV 35, Act I, Scene 1: Care selve, ombre beataGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act II, Scene 2: V’adoro, pupilleGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act III, Scene 3: E pur così in un giorno - Piangerò la sorta miaGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Giulio Cesare, HWV 17, Act III, Scene 7: Da tempeste il legno infrantoGeorge Frideric Handel, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act I: Ah! BelindaHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III, Scene 2: When I am laid in earthHenry Purcell, Barbara Hendricks, Drottningholms Barockensemble
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