Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Kathleen Ferrier's voice with "The HMV Sessions 1944-1945," a captivating collection of classical and operatic masterpieces. This album, released on January 1, 2012, under Warner Classics, showcases Ferrier's extraordinary talent and versatility, spanning a mere 37 minutes of pure musical excellence.
The tracklist is a journey through some of the most beloved works in classical music, featuring compositions by Gluck, Brahms, Elgar, Handel, Purcell, and Mendelssohn. From the hauntingly beautiful "What Is Life to Me Without Thee?" by Gluck to the enchanting "Spring Is Coming" by Handel, each piece is performed with Ferrier's signature warmth and depth, making it a treasure trove for both opera enthusiasts and classical music aficionados.
Ferrier's ability to convey the essence of each composition is nothing short of remarkable. Her rendition of "My Work Is Done" from Elgar's "The Dream of Gerontius" is a testament to her emotional range, while her performance of "Sound the Trumpet" from Purcell's "Come Ye Sons of Art" showcases her technical prowess. The album also includes lesser-known gems like "Feinsliebchen, du sollst mir nicht barfuss geh'n" from Brahms' "49 Deutsche Volkslieder," adding a touch of folk charm to the collection.
This album is not just a compilation of songs but a testament to Kathleen Ferrier's enduring legacy as one of the most celebrated contraltos of the 20th century. Whether you're a seasoned classical music lover or a newcomer to the genre, "The HMV Sessions 1944-1945" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the timeless appeal of Ferrier's artistry.
Brahms: 49 Deutsche Volkslieder, WoO 33: No. 12, Feinsliebchen, du sollst mir nicht barfuss geh'nJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Elgar: The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: "My Work Is Done" - "It Is Because"Edward Elgar, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Greene / Arr. Roper: O God of Righteousness: "I Will Lay Me Down In Peace"Maurice Greene, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Greene / Arr. Roper: Praise the Lord, O My Soul: "O Praise the Lord"Maurice Greene, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Handel: Ottone, re di Germania, HWV 15: "Spring Is Coming"George Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Handel: Ottone, re di Germania, HWV 15: "Come to Me, Soothing Sleep"George Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Purcell: Come Ye Sons of Art, Z. 323 "Ode for Queen Mary's Birthday": No. 3, Duet. "Sound the Trumpet"Henry Purcell, Kathleen Ferrier, Isobel Baillie, Gerald Moore
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: "Let Us Wander, Not Unseen"Henry Purcell, Kathleen Ferrier, Isobel Baillie, Gerald Moore
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628: "Shepherd, Shepherd, Leave Decoying"Henry Purcell, Kathleen Ferrier, Isobel Baillie, Gerald Moore