Barbara Bonney, the renowned American soprano, presents a captivating collection of works in her album "Fairest Isle," released on November 30, 2000, under Decca Music Group Ltd. This album is a beautiful blend of requiem, opera, classical, and choral genres, showcasing Bonney's exceptional vocal prowess and versatility.
"Fairest Isle" features 17 tracks, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes. The album includes a mix of compositions from different periods, with a focus on the works of Henry Purcell. Notable tracks include "Come again: sweet love doth now invite," "Flow my tears," "Fairest Isle (Venus)" from "King Arthur," and "When I Am Laid In Earth" from "Dido and Aeneas." Each piece is meticulously performed, highlighting Bonney's lyrical soprano voice and her ability to convey deep emotion and technical brilliance.
Recorded at the prestigious Henry Wood Hall in London, the album benefits from the accompaniment of the Academy of Ancient Music, conducted by Christopher Hogwood. The inclusion of a 42-page booklet with notes and all texts adds an educational and enriching dimension to the listening experience.
Barbara Bonney's "Fairest Isle" is a testament to her artistry and the enduring appeal of classical and operatic music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
First Booke Of Songes, 1597: 17. Come again: sweet love doth now inviteJohn Dowland, Barbara Bonney, Jacob Heringman
First Booke of Songes, 1597: 4. If my complaints could passions moveJohn Dowland, Barbara Bonney, Jacob Heringman
First Booke of Songes, 1597: 21. Away with these self-loving ladsJohn Dowland, Barbara Bonney, Jacob Heringman
Second Booke of Songes, 1600: 2. Flow my tearsJohn Dowland, Barbara Bonney, Jacob Heringman
Never Weather Beaten SailThomas Campion, Barbara Bonney, Jacob Heringman
The cypress curtain of the nightThomas Campion, Barbara Bonney, Jacob Heringman
It was a lover and his lasseThomas Morley, Barbara Bonney, Jacob Heringman
O Lord, how vain are all our frail delightsWilliam Byrd, Barbara Bonney, Phantasm
Fantasy No. 9John Jenkins, Phantasm
Though Amaryllis Dance in GreenWilliam Byrd, Barbara Bonney, Phantasm
If music be the food of love (First setting: 1692)Henry Purcell, Barbara Bonney, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Abdelazer, Z.570: AirHenry Purcell, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Abdelazer: AirHenry Purcell, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
The Fairy Queen / Part 3: The Sweet Passion: O let me weep, for ever weepHenry Purcell, Barbara Bonney, Andrew Manze, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
King Arthur, or The British Worthy (1691) / Act 5: Fairest Isle (Venus)Henry Purcell, Barbara Bonney, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
She loves and she confesses tooHenry Purcell, Barbara Bonney, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
Dido and Aeneas / Act 3: "Thy Hand, Belinda...When I Am Laid In Earth"Henry Purcell, Barbara Bonney, Academy of Ancient Music, Christopher Hogwood
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