Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera and classical music with Kiri Te Kanawa's "Artist Portrait 2007," released on May 1, 2004, under Warner Classics International. This captivating album spans a little over an hour and twelve minutes, featuring a stunning array of arias and songs that showcase the extraordinary vocal prowess and artistry of the renowned soprano, Kiri Te Kanawa.
The album is a beautifully curated collection of iconic pieces from some of the most celebrated operas and composers in history. From Puccini's timeless masterpieces like "O mio babbino caro" from Gianni Schicchi and "Nessun dorma" from Turandot, to Mozart's "Come scoglio immoto resta" from Così fan tutte, and Wagner's powerful arias from Tannhäuser, Te Kanawa's performance is nothing short of breathtaking. Her voice, known for its purity and emotional depth, brings a new dimension to these beloved classics.
In addition to the operatic highlights, the album also includes enchanting compositions by Michel Legrand, such as "The Windmills of Your Mind" and "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?" These pieces add a touch of elegance and sophistication, showcasing Te Kanawa's versatility as an artist.
The album is a testament to Kiri Te Kanawa's enduring legacy in the world of classical music. Her ability to convey the essence of each character and the depth of each emotion through her voice is truly remarkable. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a must-listen, offering a rich and rewarding musical experience.
Mozart: Così fan tutte, K. 588, Act 1: "Come scoglio immoto resta" (Fiordiligi)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kiri Te Kanawa, Alain Lombard, Orchestre Philharmonique De Strasbourg
Wagner : Tannhäuser : Act 1 "Dich, teure Halle, grüss' ich wieder" [Elisabeth]Richard Wagner, Kiri Te Kanawa, Marek Janowski, Philharmonia Orchestra
Wagner : Tannhäuser : Act 3 "Allmächt'ge Jungfrau, hör mein Flehen" [Elisabeth]Richard Wagner, Kiri Te Kanawa, Marek Janowski, Philharmonia Orchestra
Puccini : "Morire?"Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa
Puccini : "Canto d'anime"Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa
Legrand : MagicMichel Legrand, Kiri Te Kanawa, London Studio Orchestra
Legrand : The Windmills of your MindMichel Legrand, Kiri Te Kanawa, London Studio Orchestra
Anonymous / Arr. Cullen: Coventry CarolAnonymous, Kiri Te Kanawa, Coventry Cathedral Choir, Lichfield Cathedral Choir, BBC Philharmonic, Robin Stapleton
Anonymous / Arr. Cullen: There Is No Rose of Such VirtueAnonymous, Kiri Te Kanawa, Coventry Cathedral Choir, Lichfield Cathedral Choir, BBC Philharmonic, Robin Stapleton
Traditional / Arr. Cullen: The Virgin Mary Had a Baby BoyTraditional, Kiri Te Kanawa, Michael George, Coventry Cathedral Choir, Lichfield Cathedral Choir, BBC Philharmonic, Robin Stapleton
Legrand : "Blue, green, grey and gone"Michel Legrand, Kiri Te Kanawa
Legrand : "What are you doing the rest of your life?"Michel Legrand, Kiri Te Kanawa, London Studio Orchestra