Experience the timeless artistry of Jessye Norman in this captivating live recording of Richard Strauss' works, performed with the London Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Klaus Tennstedt. Recorded in 1986 at the peak of Norman's career, this album showcases her extraordinary vocal prowess and versatility, presenting two distinct facets of Strauss' compositional genius: the lyrical and the dramatic.
The album opens with a selection of Strauss' lieder, including pieces from his Op. 27 and Op. 37 collections, as well as the tender "Wiegenlied" from Op. 41. These intimate songs highlight Norman's ability to convey deep emotion and nuance, accompanied by the sensitive playing of the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Strauss' dramatic masterpiece, "Salome." Norman delivers a powerful and electrifying performance of the "Dance of the Seven Veils," followed by the closing scene, where her commanding presence and vocal brilliance shine. The orchestral playing is equally impressive, with Tennstedt drawing out the full richness and drama of Strauss' score.
Also included is a suite from "Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme," offering a delightful contrast to the more intense works on the album. This lively and elegant music showcases the orchestra's virtuosity and Norman's ability to adapt to different styles.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Strauss' music and the extraordinary talent of Jessye Norman. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of classical music, this live recording is sure to captivate and inspire.
2021 London Philharmonic Orchestra2021 BBC
Tracks
4 Lieder, Op. 27, TrV 170: No. 2, CäcilieRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Jessye Norman
4 Lieder, Op. 27, TrV 170: No. 1, Ruhe, meine SeeleRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Jessye Norman
6 Lieder, Op. 37: No. 3, Meinem kindeRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Jessye Norman
5 Lieder, Op. 41: No. 1, WiegenliedRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Jessye Norman
8 Gedichte aus 'Letzte Blätter', Op. 10: No. 1, ZueignungRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Jessye Norman
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: I. OvertureRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: II. MinuetRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: III. The Fencing MasterRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: IV. Entry and Dance of the TailorsRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: V. Lully's MinuetRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: VI. CouranteRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: VII. Entry of CléonteRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: VIII. Prelude to Act IIRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme Suite, Op. 60: IX. The DinnerRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Salome: Dance of the Seven VeilsRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Closing scene from Salome: Ah! Du wolltest mich nicht deinen Mund küssen lassenRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Jessye Norman
Closing scene from Salome: Nun wohl! Ich lebe nochRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Jessye Norman
Closing scene from Salome: Ah! Ich habe deinen Mund geküsst, JochanaanRichard Strauss, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Jessye Norman
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