Experience the golden voice of Swedish tenor Jussi Björling in this captivating collection of opera arias, featuring some of his most celebrated performances from the 1950s. Released by Bluebell in 2012, this album compiles Björling's recordings of iconic roles from the Italian opera repertoire, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate his artistry in a concise, 58-minute format.
The album opens with a selection of arias from Giacomo Puccini's "Manon Lescaut," showcasing Björling's tender and expressive portrayal of the doomed Chevalier des Grieux. The tenor's nuanced phrasing and rich tone bring depth and sensitivity to this tragic love story.
Following "Manon Lescaut," the album presents highlights from Pietro Mascagni's "Cavalleria Rusticana," a one-act opera that explores themes of love, jealousy, and revenge. Björling's powerful and passionate performance as the tormented Turiddu is a testament to his dramatic prowess and vocal virtuosity.
The album concludes with a selection of arias from Ruggero Leoncavallo's "Pagliacci," a gripping tale of betrayal and madness. Björling's haunting and intense portrayal of the jilted clown Canio is a tour de force, demonstrating his exceptional range and acting skills.
Throughout the album, Björling's exceptional vocal technique and musicality shine, making this collection an essential addition to any opera enthusiast's library. The accompanying orchestral performances, conducted by Nils Grevillius and featuring the Stockholm Royal Opera Orchestra, provide a lush and supportive backdrop for Björling's soaring vocals. Whether you're a seasoned opera lover or a curious newcomer, this album offers an unforgettable journey into the world of Italian opera, as interpreted by one of the 20th century's most beloved tenors.
2012 Bluebell2012 Bluebell
Tracks
Manon Lescaut: Act I: Tra voi, belle, brune e biondeGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Hjordis Schymberg, Hugo Hasslo, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Nils Grevillius
Manon Lescaut: Act I: Vedete? lo'son 'fedeleGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Hjordis Schymberg, Hugo Hasslo, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Nils Grevillius
Manon Lescaut: Act II: Senti, di qui partiamoGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Hjordis Schymberg, Hugo Hasslo, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Nils Grevillius
Manon Lescaut: Act III: Che avien? Ah! Non v'avvicinate … No! pazzo son! GuardateGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Hjordis Schymberg, Hugo Hasslo, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Nils Grevillius
Manon Lescaut: Act IV. Tutta su me ti posaGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Hjordis Schymberg, Hugo Hasslo, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Nils Grevillius
Manon Lescaut: Act IV: Vedi, vedi, son io che piangoGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Hjordis Schymberg, Hugo Hasslo, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Nils Grevillius
Manon Lescaut: Act IV: Sola, perduta, abbandonataGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Hjordis Schymberg, Hugo Hasslo, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Nils Grevillius
Manon Lescaut: Act IV: Fra le tue braccia, amoreGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Hjordis Schymberg, Hugo Hasslo, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Nils Grevillius
Cavalleria rusticana: Tu qui, Santuzza?Pietro Mascagni, Jussi Björling, Aase Nordmo Løvberg, Bette Björling, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Kurt Bendix
Cavalleria rusticana: Ah! lo vedi!Pietro Mascagni, Jussi Björling, Aase Nordmo Løvberg, Bette Björling, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Kurt Bendix
Cavalleria rusticana: Comare lola … Viva il vino spumeggiantePietro Mascagni, Jussi Björling, Aase Nordmo Løvberg, Bette Björling, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Kurt Bendix
Cavalleria rusticana: Mamma, quel vino e generosoPietro Mascagni, Jussi Björling, Aase Nordmo Løvberg, Bette Björling, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Kurt Bendix
Pagliacci: Act I: Un tal giocoRuggero Leoncavallo, Jussi Björling, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Lamberto Gardelli
Pagliacci: Act I: Recitar! … Vesti la giubbaRuggero Leoncavallo, Jussi Björling, Royal Stockholm Opera Orchestra, Lamberto Gardelli
Jussi Björling, born Johan Jonatan Björling, was a Swedish tenor celebrated as one of the most renowned operatic singers of the 20th century. His powerful and versatile voice captivated audiences worldwide, particularly at the prestigious Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Björling's repertoire spanned Italian, French, and Russian operas, each performed with exquisite taste and mastery. His performances at major European opera houses, including the Royal Opera House in London and La Scala in Milan, further cemented his status as a true vocal virtuoso. Björling's legacy endures as a testament to his extraordinary talent and enduring impact on the world of opera.
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Jussi Björling
