Kenneth McKellar, the renowned Scottish tenor, presents a captivating collection of classical masterpieces in "Handel, J.S. Bach, Clarke, Britten (Adrian Boult – The Decca Legacy II, Vol. 4)." Released on October 7, 2022, under Universal Music Australia Pty. Ltd., this album is a testament to McKellar's enduring legacy and his ability to bring timeless compositions to life. The album spans a variety of genres, primarily rooted in Celtic influences, and features a rich tapestry of works by some of the most celebrated composers in history.
The tracklist is a journey through the Baroque and beyond, featuring excerpts from Handel's iconic works such as "Messiah" and "Judas Maccabaeus," as well as Bach's serene "Sheep May Safely Graze" from the Cantata BWV 208. The album also includes the stirring "Trumpet Voluntary" and the patriotic "The National Anthem (God Save The Queen)." McKellar's velvety tenor voice is accompanied by the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, conducted by the esteemed Sir Adrian Boult, adding depth and grandeur to each piece.
With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of McKellar's artistry. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a delightful and enriching listening experience. Kenneth McKellar's "Handel, J.S. Bach, Clarke, Britten" is a celebration of musical excellence and a tribute to the enduring power of classical compositions.
Serse, HWV 40 / Act I: Frondi tenere... Ombra mai fuGeorge Frideric Handel, Kenneth McKellar, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Acis and Galatea, HWV 49 / Act I: Love in Her Eyes Sits PlayingGeorge Frideric Handel, Kenneth McKellar, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Tolomeo, HWV 25: Silent Worship (Did'st Thou Not See My Lady?)George Frideric Handel, Kenneth McKellar, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Jephtha, HWV 70 / Act II: Deeper, and Deeper StillGeorge Frideric Handel, Kenneth McKellar, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Messiah, HWV 56 / Pt. 1: Comfort ye, My People... Ev'ry Valley Shall Be ExaltedGeorge Frideric Handel, Kenneth McKellar, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Semele HWV 58 / Act II: Where'er You WalkGeorge Frideric Handel, Kenneth McKellar, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Judas Maccabaeus, HWV 63 / Pt. 2: Thanks To My Brethren... How Vain Is ManGeorge Frideric Handel, Kenneth McKellar, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Judas Maccabaeus, HWV 63 / Pt. 2: My Arms! Against This Gorgias... Sound an AlarmGeorge Frideric Handel, Kenneth McKellar, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Was mir behagt, ist nur die muntre Jagd, Cantata BWV 208: Sheep May Safely GrazeJohann Sebastian Bach, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major, BWV 1068: 2. AirJohann Sebastian Bach, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Adrian Boult
Trumpet VoluntaryJeremiah Clarke, Trumpeters of Kneller Hall Royal Military School of Music, London Symphony Orchestra, Kenneth Alwyn
The National Anthem (God Save The Queen)Benjamin Britten, London Symphony Chorus, London Symphony Orchestra