Immerse yourself in the timeless genius of Ludwig van Beethoven with this captivating album, released on April 1, 1996, by Hyperion. This collection showcases Beethoven's mastery across various genres, including classical, classical piano, and chamber music, all within a concise yet powerful duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes.
The centerpiece of the album is Beethoven's Mass in C Major, Op. 86, a monumental work that exemplifies his ability to blend sacred themes with profound musical expression. The mass is divided into six movements, each offering a unique glimpse into Beethoven's compositional brilliance. From the solemn "Kyrie" to the triumphant "Gloria," and the reflective "Agnus Dei," this mass is a journey through the depths of human emotion and spiritual devotion.
Complementing the mass are three additional works that highlight Beethoven's versatility. "Ah! perfido, Op. 65" is a dramatic and intense aria that showcases Beethoven's ability to convey deep emotion through music. "Ne' giorni tuoi felici, WoO 93" is a lyrical and expressive piece, while "Tremate, empi, tremate, Op. 116" is a powerful and dramatic work that demonstrates Beethoven's skill in creating music that is both emotionally resonant and technically impressive.
This album is a testament to Beethoven's enduring legacy and his ability to create music that transcends time and genre. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Mass in C Major, Op. 86: I. KyrieLudwig van Beethoven, Gwynne Howell, Corydon Singers, Jean Rigby, John Mark Ainsley, Matthew Best, Janice Watson, Corydon Orchestra
Mass in C Major, Op. 86: II. GloriaLudwig van Beethoven, Gwynne Howell, Corydon Orchestra, Jean Rigby, John Mark Ainsley, Matthew Best, Janice Watson, Corydon Singers
Mass in C Major, Op. 86: III. CredoLudwig van Beethoven, Gwynne Howell, Janice Watson, Jean Rigby, John Mark Ainsley, Corydon Orchestra, Matthew Best, Corydon Singers
Mass in C Major, Op. 86: IV. SanctusLudwig van Beethoven, Matthew Best, Corydon Singers, Corydon Orchestra
Mass in C Major, Op. 86: V. BenedictusLudwig van Beethoven, Corydon Orchestra, Corydon Singers, Gwynne Howell, Janice Watson, Jean Rigby, John Mark Ainsley, Matthew Best
Mass in C Major, Op. 86: VI. Agnus DeiLudwig van Beethoven, Corydon Orchestra, Corydon Singers, Gwynne Howell, Janice Watson, Jean Rigby, Matthew Best, John Mark Ainsley
Ah! perfido, Op. 65: I. Scena: Ah! perfidoLudwig van Beethoven, Janice Watson, Corydon Orchestra, Matthew Best
Ah! perfido, Op. 65: II. Aria: Per pietà, non dirmi addioLudwig van Beethoven, Corydon Orchestra, Matthew Best, Janice Watson
Ne' giorni tuoi felici, WoO 93Ludwig van Beethoven, Matthew Best, John Mark Ainsley, Janice Watson, Corydon Orchestra
Tremate, empi, tremate, Op. 116Ludwig van Beethoven, Janice Watson, John Mark Ainsley, Gwynne Howell, Matthew Best, Corydon Orchestra