Immerse yourself in the timeless artistry of Kathleen Ferrier with "20th-Century British Treasures," a captivating collection of live recordings that showcase her unparalleled talent as a contralto. This album, released on January 1, 2021, by SOMM Recordings, features a stunning array of 28 tracks spanning the genres of opera and classical music. Each piece, recorded between 1946 and 1953, is a testament to Ferrier's enduring legacy and her ability to bring depth and passion to every performance.
From the hauntingly beautiful "Love Is a Bable" to the powerful rendition of "The Rape of Lucretia," this album offers a comprehensive journey through some of the most iconic works of 20th-century British music. Highlights include previously unpublished recordings, such as Ferrier's impassioned performance of Lennox Berkeley’s "Four Poems of St. Teresa of Avila," which adds a unique and rare gem to this collection.
Accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Hugo Rignold, Ferrier's voice shines brightly, delivering a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "20th-Century British Treasures" promises an enriching experience that celebrates the enduring brilliance of Kathleen Ferrier. With a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of musical excellence that will captivate and inspire.
(C) 2021 SOMM Recordings(P) 2021 SOMM Recordings
Tracks
Love Is a Bable, Op. 152 No. 3 (Live)Hubert Parry, Kathleen Ferrier, Frederick Stone
Now Sleeps the Crimson Petal, Op. 3 No. 2Roger Quilter, Kathleen Ferrier, Phyllis Spurr
The Rape of Lucretia, Op. 37: The Flower Song (Live)Benjamin Britten, Kathleen Ferrier, Anna Pollak, EOG Orchestra, Reginald Goodall
4 Poems of St. Teresa of Avila , Op. 27: No. 1, If, Lord, Thy Love for Me Is Strong (Live)Lennox Berkeley, Kathleen Ferrier, London Symphony Orchestra, Hugo Rignold
4 Poems of St. Teresa of Avila , Op. 27: No. 2, Shepherd, Shepherd Hark That Calling (Live)Lennox Berkeley, Kathleen Ferrier, London Symphony Orchestra, Hugo Rignold
4 Poems of St. Teresa of Avila , Op. 27: No. 3, Let Mine Eyes See Thee (Live)Lennox Berkeley, Kathleen Ferrier, London Symphony Orchestra, Hugo Rignold
4 Poems of St. Teresa of Avila , Op. 27: No. 4, Today a Shepherd and Our Kin (Live)Lennox Berkeley, Kathleen Ferrier, London Symphony Orchestra, Hugo Rignold
Kathleen Ferrier, the renowned English contralto, captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful and emotive voice. Born Kathleen Mary Ferrier, she seamlessly blended folksongs and popular ballads with classical masterpieces by composers such as Bach, Brahms, Mahler, and Elgar. Her versatility shone on stage, in concert halls, and through her recordings, earning her an international reputation. Tragically, her career was cut short by cancer, but her legacy endures, continuing to inspire and move fans of opera and classical music alike.
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Kathleen Ferrier
