Emma Kirkby, the renowned soprano, invites you into a world of classical elegance and vocal mastery with "The Sweet Sound of Emma Kirkby." Released on January 1, 1999, under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, this album is a captivating journey through a diverse collection of choral, opera, and classical pieces that showcase Kirkby's extraordinary range and artistry.
Spanning a little over an hour, the album features a meticulously curated tracklist that includes works from composers such as Handel, Bach, Mozart, and Vivaldi. From the operatic grandeur of "Alcina" and "Rosamunde" to the serene beauty of "Bist du bei mir" and the uplifting choral pieces like "Praise the Lord with cheerful noise," Kirkby's voice shines with clarity, warmth, and emotional depth.
Kirkby's interpretation of these timeless pieces is both sensitive and dynamic, offering a fresh perspective on familiar works while also introducing lesser-known gems. Her ability to convey the essence of each composition, whether it's the tender intimacy of "If Music Be The Food Of Love" or the dramatic intensity of "Voi avete un cor fedele," makes this album a true testament to her vocal prowess and musical insight.
"The Sweet Sound of Emma Kirkby" is not just a collection of songs; it's a celebration of the human voice and its power to evoke a range of emotions. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the enduring appeal of these masterful compositions and the extraordinary talent of Emma Kirkby.
Alcina, HWV 34 / Act 1: "Tornami a vagheggiar"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Nehmt meinen Dank", K.383Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Stabat Mater, P. 77: I. Duet. Stabat Mater dolorosaGiovanni Battista Pergolesi, Emma Kirkby, James Bowman, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Esther, HWV 50 / Scene 2: "Praise the Lord with cheerful noise"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Bist du bei mir" (formerly attrib. J.S.Bach as BWV 508)Gottfried Heinrich Stölzel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Gedenke doch, mein Geist zurücke, BWV 509Johann Sebastian Bach, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Gloria, RV 589: III. Laudamus teAntonio Vivaldi, Judith Nelson, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Simon Preston
"Voi avete un cor fedele", K.217Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Frottole: Vergine bellaBartolomeo Tromboncino, Emma Kirkby, Consort Of Musicke, Anthony Rooley
O come sei gentileClaudio Monteverdi, Emma Kirkby, Judith Nelson, Anthony Rooley
Rosamunde: Rise, Glory, RiseThomas Arne, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Weichet nur, betrübte Schatten" Cantata, BWV 202 - "Wedding Cantata": 7. "Sich üben im Lieben"Johann Sebastian Bach, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Alceste, HWV 45: Come FancyGeorge Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Sweeter Than Roses", Z.585Henry Purcell, Emma Kirkby, Anthony Rooley
Second Set of Madrigals (1609): XXXI. Draw On Sweet NightJohn Wilbye, Consort Of Musicke, Anthony Rooley
"If Music Be The Food Of Love", Z.379Henry Purcell, Emma Kirkby, Richard Campbell, Christopher Hogwood