Immerse yourself in the timeless compositions of Giuseppe Verdi with "Verdi Without Words," a captivating journey through some of the most celebrated operas in classical music history. Released on January 1, 1995, by Telarc, this album offers a meticulously curated selection of Verdi's most iconic pieces, spanning his illustrious career. From the grandeur of "Aïda" to the poignant melodies of "La traviata," and the dramatic intensity of "Rigoletto," this collection showcases the breadth and depth of Verdi's genius.
Each track is expertly arranged by Erich Kunzel and Christopher Beck, bringing a fresh perspective to these beloved works. The album opens with the majestic "Grand Entrance" from "Aïda," setting the stage for a rich tapestry of arias, choruses, and orchestral pieces that highlight Verdi's unparalleled ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. The inclusion of the famous "Anvil Chorus" from "Il Trovatore" and the hauntingly beautiful "Ave Maria" from "Otello" adds layers of diversity and richness to the listening experience.
With a duration of just over an hour and eight minutes, "Verdi Without Words" is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Verdi's musical legacy. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to classical music, this album provides an accessible and enjoyable introduction to the works of one of history's most influential composers.
Aïda, Act I: Grand Entrance - "Su! Del Nilo al sacro lido" - "Ritorna vincitor!" - "L'insana parola" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Aïda, Act I: "Celeste Aïda" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Aïda, Act II: "Gloria all'Egitto" - Egyptian March - "Vieni, o guerriero vindice" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Otello, Act IV: "Ave Maria" - Final Scene (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Il Trovatore, Act II: "Vedi! Le fosche nolturne spogile" (Anvil Chorus) [Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck]Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Il trovatore, Act III: "Dì quella pira" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
La traviata: Prelude (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
La traviata, Act I: Introduction (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
La traviata, Act I: "Brindisi" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
La traviata, Act I: Waltz (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
La traviata, Act I: "Un dì felice" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
La traviata, Act I: "Sempre libera degg'io" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
La traviata, Act II: "Di provenza il mar, il suol" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Rigoletto, Act I: "Questa o quella" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Rigoletto, Act II: "Caro nome" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Rigoletto, Act IV: "La donna è mobile" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Rigoletto, Act IV: "Un di, se ben rammentomi" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Falstaff, Act III: Finale. "Tutto nel mondo è burla" (Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck)Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Nabucco, Act III: "Va, pensiero" (Prisoners' Chorus) [Arr. E. Kunzel & C. Beck]Giuseppe Verdi, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel