Experience the captivating world of Roberto Gerhard's "The Duenna" in this live album, a testament to the composer's unique blend of musical styles and his enduring legacy. This recording captures the UK premiere of Gerhard's opera, a work that showcases his mastery of melody and serial composition, honed under the tutelage of Arnold Schoenberg and Enrique Granados.
"The Duenna" is a comic opera in three acts, originally composed by Thomas Linley the elder and his son, Thomas Linley the younger. Gerhard's adaptation brings a fresh perspective to the classic tale, infusing it with his distinctive musical voice. The opera is performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Joan Martín-Royo, with the Orquestra Simfònica del Gran Teatre del Liceu, and features a stellar cast that brings the characters to life with vivid detail.
In addition to the opera, this album also includes the UK premiere of Gerhard's Violin Concerto, a work that highlights the composer's ability to blend traditional forms with modern techniques. The concerto is performed by an unnamed soloist, accompanied by the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
The album spans nearly three hours, offering a comprehensive exploration of Gerhard's musical language. From the lively ensemble pieces to the intimate solo moments, each track provides insight into the composer's creative process and his ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres.
Roberto Gerhard, who passed away in 1970, left behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences. This live recording of "The Duenna" is a fitting tribute to his genius, offering a rare opportunity to experience his music in a live setting. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of opera, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
2014 Music Preserved2014 Music Preserved
Tracks
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 1: No. 1, Ah, Devil Take This Plaguey String! - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 1: No. 2, Don Antonio and Brethren of Deadly Sin - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 1: No. 3, Are You Moonstruck, Sirrah - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 1: No. 4, Waking, I Heard Thy Numbers Chide - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 1: No. 5, What Vagabonds Are Those I Hear? - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 1: No. 6, Mob of Drunken Revellers Pass By - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 1: No. 7, Brethren of Deadly Sin - Ad Mortem Festinamus - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 1: No. 8, Vision of Strumpet, Young Cavalier and Bawd - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 2: No. 9, Peace, Booby - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 2: No. 10, Hey Ferdinand, I Say! - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 3: No. 11, But, My Charming Duenna - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 3: No. 12, Thou Canst Not Boast of Fortune’s Store - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 3: No. 13, Entrance of Jerome and Ferdinand: I Suppose You've Been - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 3: No. 14, I Fear Indeed - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 3: No. 15, I'm Astounded - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 3: No. 16, Luisa Escapes - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 3: No. 17, This Way, This Way Mistress - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 3: No. 18, So, Speed You Well - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 4: No. 19, Luisa and Clara - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 4: No. 20, Clara - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 5: No. 21, I Tell Thee Father - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 5: No. 22, Señor, Are You Disposed to Oblige a Lady - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 1, Scene 5: No. 23, Finale - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 1: No. 24, Donna Clara? - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 1: No. 25, I Wish I Had Even Practised - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 1: No. 26, The Very Rustle of Her Silk - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 1: No. 27, Brr, a Pretty Sort of Velvet Down - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 1: No. 28, Well, My Friend - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 2: No. 29, Were Ever Truant Daughter - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 3: No. 30, Antonio, Isaac, Father Paul: Indeed, My Good Friend - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 3: No. 31, Now Father, How Shall I Hamper Him - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 2, Scene 3: No. 32, End of Act Announcement - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 1: No. 33, I Have Luisa Safe - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 1: No. 34, We Are Come to Ask a Favour - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 1: No. 35, So, Antonio, I Have Met with You at Last - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 1: No. 36, Turn Around, I Pray Thee - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 1: No. 37, How! What Impiety! - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 1: No. 38, Lovers Follow Father Paul to Altar - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 2: No. 39, Why, I Never Was so Amazed - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 2: No. 40, Come, My Charmer - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 2: No. 41, Zounds and Fury, What's Here Now? - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
The Duenna, Act 3, Scene 2: No. 42, Closing Announcement - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Stanford Robinson, Max Worthley, Victoria Sladen, BBC Symphony Chorus, BBC Symphony Orchestra
Violin Concerto: I. Allegro cantabile con anima - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Hermann Scherchen, Philharmonia Orchestra
Violin Concerto: II. Largo - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Hermann Scherchen, Philharmonia Orchestra
Violin Concerto: III. Allegro con brio - LiveRoberto Gerhard, Hermann Scherchen, Philharmonia Orchestra
Roberto Gerhard, born in 1896 in Valls, Spain, was a composer whose musical journey spanned two nations and a wealth of influences. With Germanic parents, Gerhard's early musical training in his native Catalonia was marked by studies with the renowned pianist Enrique Granados and the esteemed composer Felipe Pedrell, who ignited his passion for Catalan folk music. His compositional style was further shaped by his studies with Arnold Schoenberg, reflecting a blend of Catalan tradition and modernist innovation. Gerhard's exile from Spain led him to a prolific career in Britain, where he composed for theater, radio, and film, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to captivate audiences today. His works, such as the Violin Concerto, showcase his unique voice and enduring appeal. Gerhard passed away in Cambridge in 1970, leaving behind a body of work that stands as a testament to his artistic vision and cultural heritage.
Vinylscout
Roberto Gerhard
