Grace Bumbry, a name synonymous with operatic excellence and radiant charisma, delivers a masterclass in vocal prowess with her 2016 album "Singers of the Century." This collection, released under the Jube Classic label, spans a rich tapestry of opera arias and art songs, showcasing Bumbry's expansive range and superstar glamour. From the heart-wrenching arias of Orphée et Eurydice and Carmen to the lyrical beauty of Brahms' lieder, Bumbry's performance is nothing short of breathtaking.
Born into humble beginnings, Grace Bumbry rose to become one of the first African American opera singers to conquer the international stage. Her debut in Paris in 1960 marked the beginning of a stellar career that would see her perform at the world's most prestigious venues. This album is a testament to her enduring legacy, featuring iconic pieces from her repertoire that have captivated audiences worldwide.
The album opens with the poignant "Che farò senza Eurydice" from Gluck's Orphée et Eurydice, followed by a seamless blend of operatic arias and art songs. Highlights include the sultry "Habanera" from Bizet's Carmen, the dramatic "O don fatale" from Verdi's Don Carlo, and the lyrical beauty of Schubert's "Der Doppelgänger." Bumbry's versatility is on full display as she navigates through these diverse pieces with ease, each performance marked by her distinctive voice and artistic sensibility.
"Singers of the Century" is not just a collection of songs but a journey through the operatic canon, guided by one of the most celebrated voices of our time. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the art form and a chance to experience the magic of Grace Bumbry's voice. With a duration of 1 hour and 31 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of operatic gems, each one a testament to Bumbry's enduring legacy.
2016 Jube Classic2016 Jube Classic
Tracks
Orphée et Eurydice: Che farò senza EurydiceChristoph Willibald Gluck, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
Orphée et Eurydice: Che puro cielChristoph Willibald Gluck, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
Samson et Dalila, Op. 47: Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voixCamille Saint-Saëns, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
Sapho: O ma lyre immortelleCharles Gounod, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
The Maid of Orleans, Op. 4: Oui, Dieu le veut! - Adieu, forêtsPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin
Carmen, WD 31: Seguidilla. Près des ramparts de SévilleGeorges Bizet, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin
Carmen, WD 31: Habanera. L'amour est un oiseau rebelleGeorges Bizet, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
Carmen, WD 31: En vain pour éviterGeorges Bizet, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
Cavalleria rusticana: Voi lo sapetePietro Mascagni, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
Un ballo in maschera: Re dell'abisso, affrettati, precipita per l'etraGiuseppe Verdi, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
Don Carlo: O don fataleGiuseppe Verdi, Grace Bumbry, Radio Orchestra Berlin, Kulka János
8 Gedichte aus Letzte Blätter, Op. 10, TrV 141: No. 1, ZueignungRichard Strauss, Grace Bumbry, Erik Werba
Grace Bumbry was an acclaimed American opera singer, renowned for her powerful and versatile voice that spanned both mezzo-soprano and soprano roles. Born Grace Melzia Bumbry, she was part of a groundbreaking generation of African-American classical singers, following in the footsteps of Marian Anderson. Bumbry's career took a monumental turn in 1961 when she became the first black singer to perform at the prestigious Bayreuth Festival in Germany, starring as Venus in Wagner's 'Tannhäuser'. This historic achievement catapulted her to international fame and solidified her status as one of the leading vocalists of her time. Throughout her illustrious career, which spanned over three decades, Bumbry captivated audiences with her extraordinary talent and artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of opera.
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Grace Bumbry
