Anja Harteros, the acclaimed German soprano, presents a captivating collection of orchestral songs from three master composers of the German Romantic tradition: Wagner, Berg, and Mahler. Released on August 6, 2021, under the label MUNCHNER PHILHARMONIKER GBR, this album is a testament to Harteros' extraordinary vocal prowess and her deep understanding of these monumental works.
The album opens with Wagner's Wesendonck-Lieder, a cycle of five songs that showcase the composer's lush harmonies and poetic sensibilities. Harteros navigates these pieces with a delicate balance of power and tenderness, bringing out the nuanced emotions that lie within.
The second part of the album features Berg's Sieben frühe Lieder, a set of seven songs that reveal the young composer's burgeoning talent and his unique voice within the late Romantic tradition. Harteros' interpretations are both sensitive and expressive, capturing the essence of each poem and the composer's intent.
The album concludes with Mahler's Rückert-Lieder, a profound and introspective cycle that explores themes of love, loss, and transcendence. Harteros' performances are nothing short of transcendent, her voice soaring and aching with a depth of feeling that is truly remarkable.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Anja Harteros' interpretations of these timeless works are sure to leave a lasting impression.