Emma Kirkby, the renowned soprano celebrated for her exquisite interpretations of Baroque and Classical repertoire, presents a captivating collection of works by Handel, Arne, Haydn, and Mozart. This double album, released in 1998 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, showcases Kirkby's ethereal voice and her profound musicality across 25 tracks spanning over two hours.
The album is a testament to Kirkby's versatility and artistry, featuring a diverse selection of arias, overtures, and choral pieces. From Handel's dramatic "Alexander's Feast" to the delicate beauty of Mozart's "Aer tranquillo," each track is a masterclass in vocal technique and emotional expression. The inclusion of works by Thomas Augustine Arne and Joseph Haydn further enriches the album, offering a broad perspective on the musical styles of the 18th century.
Accompanied by the esteemed Academy of Ancient Music under the direction of Christopher Hogwood, Kirkby's performances are imbued with historical authenticity and a deep understanding of the compositions. The album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts, offering both well-known pieces and lesser-known gems that highlight Kirkby's exceptional range and interpretive skills.
Whether you're a longtime admirer of Emma Kirkby or a newcomer to her work, this album is a must-listen. It's a journey through some of the most beautiful and enduring music of the Baroque and Classical eras, brought to life by one of the most celebrated sopranos of our time.
Alessandro Severo: Overture - HWVA13George Frideric Handel, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Britannia: Welcome MarsJohn Frederick Lampe, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Dione (1732): Pretty WarblersJohn Frederick Lampe, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Hornpipe in D, HWV 356George Frideric Handel, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Rosamunde: Rise, Glory, RiseThomas Arne, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Ariodante HWV 33 / Act 3: "Neghittosi, or voi che fate?"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Alcina, HWV 34 / Act 3: Credete al mio doloreGeorge Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Alcina, HWV 34 / Act 1: "Tornami a vagheggiar"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
March in D, HWV.345George Frideric Handel, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Alexander's Feast, HWV.75 / Part 1: "War, He Sung, Is Toil And Trouble"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
L'Allegro, Il Penseroso ed Il Moderato, HWV 55: "Sweet Bird, That Shun'st The Noise Of Folly"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Saul, HWV 53 / Act 1: "Capricious Man"George Frideric Handel, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
The Masque of Comus: "By The Rushy-Fringed Bank"Thomas Arne, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
The Masque of Comus: "Thrice Upon Thy Fingers Tip"Thomas Arne, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Where The Bee Sucks"Thomas Arne, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
The Creation, Hob. XXI:2, Pt. 1: No. 8, Aria. With Verdure Clad the Fields Appear - Sung in EnglishJoseph Haydn, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
The Creation, Hob. XXI:2, Pt. 2: No. 15, Aria. On Mighty Pens Uplifted Soars The Eagle - Sung in EnglishJoseph Haydn, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Il re pastore, K.208 / Act 1: "Aer tranquillo"Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Il re pastore, K.208 / Act 2: "L'amerò, sarò costante"Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Christopher Hirons, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Voi avete un cor fedele", K.217Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Ah, lo previdi...Ah, t'invola agl'occhi miei", K.272Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Zaide, K.344 / Act 1: "Ruhe sanft, mein holdes Leben"Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Zaide, K.344 / Act 2: "Trostlos schluchzet Philomele"Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Nehmt meinen Dank", K.383Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
"Ch'io mi scordi di te... Non temer, amato bene", K.505Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Emma Kirkby, Steven Lubin, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood