Dive into the rich tapestry of Benjamin Britten's early career with "Britten & Pears: The Early HMV Recordings," a captivating collection that spans a variety of genres, from classical and choral to opera and neoclassical. Released in 2012, this album is a treasure trove of performances that showcase Britten's versatility and mastery as a composer and performer.
The album features a diverse range of works, including Britten's own compositions and arrangements, such as the "Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22" and "The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35." These pieces are performed with exquisite sensitivity and technical brilliance, highlighting Britten's deep understanding of the human voice and his ability to set text to music in a way that is both poignant and powerful.
In addition to Britten's own works, the album also includes a selection of traditional songs and folk tunes, such as "The Plough Boy," "Come You Not from Newcastle," and "The Foggy, Foggy Dew." These performances offer a glimpse into Britten's interest in folk music and his ability to adapt and arrange traditional melodies for the concert hall.
The album also features a selection of "Old American Songs," arranged by Britten and performed with a sense of nostalgia and longing. These songs, which include "The Boatmen's Dance" and "Simple Gifts," showcase Britten's ability to blend different musical styles and traditions into a cohesive and compelling whole.
Throughout the album, Britten's piano playing is a highlight, demonstrating his virtuosic technique and deep musicality. His performances are marked by a sense of spontaneity and immediacy, as if each note is being played for the first time.
"Britten & Pears: The Early HMV Recordings" is a testament to Britten's enduring legacy as a composer and performer. With its diverse range of works and stunning performances, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the rich and varied world of classical music.
2011 Heritage Records2011 Heritage Records
Tracks
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Si Come Nella PennaBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: A Che Piu Debb 'io maiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Veggio co 'bei Vostri OcchiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Tu sa 'ch 'io soBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Rendete a Gli Occhi MieiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: S'un Casto AmorBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Spirto ben NatoBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Oh My Blacke Soule!"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Batter My Heart"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "O Might Those Sighes and Teares"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Oh, to Vex Me"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "What If This Present"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Since She Whom I Loved"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "At the Round Earth's Imagined Corners"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Thou Hast Made Me"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Death, Be Not Proud"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Plough BoyTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Come You Not from NewcastleTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
O Waly, WalyTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Foggy, Foggy DewTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Six Dukes Went a-FishinTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: The Boatmen's Dance (Minstrel Song 1843)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: Long Time AgoAaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: The Dodger (Campaign Song)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: Simple Gifts (Shaker Song)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: I Bought Me a CatAaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Im Frühling, D. 882 (Schulze)Franz Schubert, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Auf der Bruck, D. 853 (Schulze)Franz Schubert, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Benjamin Britten, born on St. Cecilia's Day in 1913, was a titan of 20th-century British music, renowned for his profound contributions to opera, choral works, and orchestral compositions. As a child prodigy, Britten began composing at the age of five, and his musical genius blossomed throughout his life, making him a central figure in British classical music. His operas, such as the haunting "Peter Grimes," are celebrated as some of the finest in the English language since Henry Purcell. Britten's "War Requiem," a powerful anti-war piece, remains one of his most enduring works. Beyond his compositions, Britten was also an exceptional pianist and conductor, leaving an indelible mark on the musical world. His legacy continues to inspire, with his works performed and cherished by audiences worldwide.
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Benjamin Britten
