Vienna: Fin de Siècle

Barbara Hannigan, the acclaimed Canadian soprano and conductor, presents a captivating journey through the late 19th and early 20th-century Viennese musical landscape with her album "Vienna: Fin de Siècle." Released on August 24, 2018, under the Alpha Classics label, this collection is a testament to Hannigan's extraordinary vocal range and interpretive depth, spanning a little over an hour and seventeen minutes.

The album features a rich tapestry of songs and lieder, showcasing the works of notable composers of the era. Hannigan's repertoire includes pieces from her own compositions, such as "Vier Lieder, Op. 2" and "Sieben Frühe Lieder," as well as settings of poems by Richard Dehmel and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Her renditions of these works are marked by a delicate balance of technical precision and emotional resonance, making each track a unique experience.

Hannigan's ability to convey the essence of each piece, whether it's the longing in "Tiefe Sehnsucht" or the serenity of "Schlaf Nur Ein," is a testament to her artistry. The album also includes her interpretations of the Mignon Lieder, based on Goethe's poems, which highlight her versatility and mastery of the classical genre.

"Vienna: Fin de Siècle" is not just a collection of songs but a profound exploration of the human experience through music. Barbara Hannigan's performances are a celebration of the golden age of Viennese music, offering listeners a glimpse into the soul of a bygone era.