Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of English music with Jennifer Vyvyan's captivating album, "Songs of England." Released on August 1, 2013, under the Naxos Classical Archives label, this collection showcases Vyvyan's exquisite vocals in a variety of classical pieces that span different eras and styles.
The album is a delightful blend of art songs, folk tunes, and opera excerpts, each meticulously arranged to highlight Vyvyan's versatility and artistry. From the delicate beauty of "Lye Still My Deare" to the lively charm of "Bobby Shaftoe," and the haunting melodies of "The Sprig of Thyme," each track offers a unique glimpse into the musical heritage of England.
Vyvyan's renditions are accompanied by piano and other instrumental arrangements, bringing depth and nuance to each performance. The album also features works by renowned composers such as Henry Purcell, Ralph Vaughan Williams, and Edward Elgar, as well as lesser-known but equally enchanting pieces.
With a duration of 36 minutes, "Songs of England" is a concise yet comprehensive journey through the musical landscape of England, offering a perfect introduction for those new to classical music and a delightful revisit for seasoned enthusiasts. Jennifer Vyvyan's masterful interpretations make this album a treasure trove of musical enjoyment and cultural insight.
Lye Still My Deare (arr. A. Dolmetsch for voice and piano)Anonymous, Arnold Dolmetsch, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
The Libertine, Z. 600: Nymphs and shepherdsHenry Purcell, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
King Arthur, Z. 628, "The British Worthy": Fairest isleHenry Purcell, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
The First Booke of Balletts to Five Voyces: No. 11. Now is the Month of Maying (arr. E. Fellowes)Thomas Morley, Edmund Fellowes, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
I Will Give My Love an Apple (arr. R. Vaughan Williams for voice and piano)Ralph Vaughan Williams, Traditional, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
The Tempest: Ariel's Song: Where the bee sucksThomas Arne, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
O Ravishing DelightThomas Arne, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
Bobby Shaftoe (arr. W.G. Whittaker for voice and piano)William Gillies Whittaker, Anonymous, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
Paul Pry: Cherry Ripe (arr. Liza Lehmann for voice and piano)Liza Lehmann, Charles Edward Horn, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
The Sprig of ThymePercy Grainger, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
Folk Song Arrangements, Vol. 3, "British Isles": No. 3. Sweet Polly OliverBenjamin Britten, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
More Songs of the Countryside: No. 1. FoxglovesMichael Head, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
GavotteHerbert Howells, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
4 Poems by Fredegond Shove: No. 3. The New GhostRalph Vaughan Williams, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
A Melancholy SongAntony Hopkins, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush
3 Songs, Op. 3: No. 1. Love's PhilosophyRoger Quilter, Jennifer Vyvyan, Ernest Lush