Embark on a musical journey through the rich tapestry of British musical heritage with Catherine Bott's enchanting album, "Fairest Isle: A New National Songbook." Released on March 1, 2000, under the prestigious Hyperion label, this collection is a treasure trove of operatic and medieval gems that showcase Bott's exquisite vocal prowess and versatility.
Spanning a diverse range of genres, from opera to traditional folk tunes, the album offers a captivating blend of well-known classics and lesser-known treasures. Highlights include the stirring "Rule, Britannia!" from Alfred, the hauntingly beautiful "The Melancholy Nymph" from English Songs, and the lively "The Miller of Dee" from Love in a Village. Each piece is performed with Bott's signature clarity and emotional depth, accompanied by meticulously crafted arrangements that bring out the essence of each composition.
With a runtime of just over an hour, this album is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of British musical tradition. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Catherine Bott's "Fairest Isle" promises a delightful and enriching listening experience.
Harlequin Restor'd: Medley OvertureRichard Charke, The Parley of Instruments, Peter Holman
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V: Fairest Isle, All Isles ExcellingHenry Purcell, Catherine Bott, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
The Lass of Richmond HillJames Hook, The Parley of Instruments, Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman
The Mock Marriage, Z. 605: Twas Within a Furlong of Edinboro' TownJeremiah Clarke, Henry Purcell, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments, Catherine Bott
Twelfth Night: When That I Was a Little Tiny BoyJoseph Vernon, The Parley of Instruments, Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman
The Beggar's Opera (Arr. Pepusch), Act II: Air 37. Cease Your FunningJohn Gay, Catherine Bott, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
The Plough Boy / The MilkmaidWilliam Shield, Peter Holman, Joseph Cornwell, Catherine Bott, The Parley of Instruments
The British GrenadiersAnonymous, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments, Joseph Cornwell
Overture in G Major, Op. 4 No. 9Francesco Barsanti, The Parley of Instruments, Peter Holman
Sally in Our AlleyHenry Carey, Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
The Broom of CowdenknowesAnonymous, Catherine Bott, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
Farewell to LocaberAnonymous, Joseph Cornwell, Peter Holman, The Parley of Instruments
English Songs, HWV 228: No. 19, The Melancholy NymphGeorge Frideric Handel, Peter Holman, Catherine Bott, The Parley of Instruments
Love in a Village: The Miller of DeeThomas Arne, Peter Holman, Joseph Cornwell, The Parley of Instruments
The Oddities: Tom BowlingCharles Dibdin, Peter Holman, Catherine Bott, The Parley of Instruments
Alfred: Rule, BritanniaThomas Arne, Catherine Bott, Joseph Cornwell, The Parley of Instruments, Peter Holman, Psalmody