Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical opera with Magdalena Kožená's captivating album, "Magdalena Kozená - Mozart / Gluck / Myslivecek Arias." Released on January 1, 2001, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album is a testament to Kožená's extraordinary vocal prowess and artistic versatility.
Spanning a little over an hour, this collection showcases a diverse array of arias from the operas of Mozart, Gluck, and Myslivecek. Kožená's crystalline soprano voice shines through each piece, effortlessly navigating the intricate melodies and profound emotions of these timeless compositions. From the tender and intimate to the powerful and dramatic, her performances are nothing short of breathtaking.
The album opens with "La clemenza di Tito" by Mozart, featuring the aria "Parto, ma tu ben mio," a poignant expression of love and longing. It continues with selections from Gluck's "Paride ed Elena" and "Isacco figura del Redentore," showcasing Kožená's ability to convey both joy and sorrow with equal grace. The iconic "Voi che sapete" from Mozart's "Le nozze di Figaro" is a standout, highlighting Kožená's nuanced interpretation and technical brilliance.
Kožená's exploration of Myslivecek's works, such as "Antigona" and "L'Olimpiade," adds a unique dimension to the album. Her renditions of these lesser-known pieces are both refreshing and deeply moving, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of classical opera.
Throughout the album, Kožená's impeccable diction and expressive phrasing bring the texts to life, making each aria a compelling narrative. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a delightful journey through the masterpieces of Mozart, Gluck, and Myslivecek, as interpreted by one of the most celebrated sopranos of our time.
La clemenza di Tito, K. 621, Act I: No. 9, Aria. Parto, ma tu ben mioWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, Jindrich Pavlis, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Paride ed Elena, Wq. 39, Act II: Le belle immaginiChristoph Willibald Gluck, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Isacco figura del Redentore, Act II: Qui per pietà mi dice – Deh! Parlate, parlateJosef Mysliveček, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Le nozze di Figaro, K. 492, Act II: No. 12, Voi che sapeteWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Antigona, Act II: Sarò qual è il torrenteJosef Mysliveček, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Idomeneo, K. 366, Act I: Recit. Ah, qual gelido orror – Il padre adoratoWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Paride ed Elena, Wq. 39, Act I: O del mio dolce ardorChristoph Willibald Gluck, Magdalena Kožená, Vladislav Borovka, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Lucio Silla, K. 135, Act I: Recit. Dunque sperar poss'io – Aria. Il tenero momentoWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
La finta giardiniera, K. 196, Act III: Va pure ad altri in braccioWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
L'Olimpiade, Act II: Dunque Licida ingrato – Più non si trovanoJosef Mysliveček, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
La Clemenza di Tito, Wq. 16, Act II: Se mai senti spirarti sul voltoChristoph Willibald Gluck, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
L'Olimpiade, Act II: Che non mi disseJosef Mysliveček, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
La clemenza di Tito, K. 621, Act II: No. 19, Aria (Rondo). Deh per questo istante soloWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski