Kathleen Battle, the renowned soprano celebrated for her crystalline voice and captivating performances, presents "Kathleen Battle: Essentials," a compilation album released on January 24, 2020, under Deutsche Grammophon. This exquisite collection spans a variety of genres, including opera, choral, and classical music, showcasing Battle's extraordinary vocal range and versatility.
The album features 25 tracks, each a masterpiece in its own right, with a total duration of 1 hour and 49 minutes. From the timeless arias of "Roméo et Juliette" and "Porgy and Bess" to the serene beauty of "Nacht und Träume" and the powerful choral works like "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands," Battle's renditions are nothing short of breathtaking. The selection includes pieces from renowned composers such as Gershwin, Handel, Schubert, and Verdi, among others, offering a rich tapestry of musical heritage.
"Kathleen Battle: Essentials" is a testament to the artist's enduring legacy and her ability to bring depth and emotion to every performance. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to her work, this album is a must-listen, providing a comprehensive overview of her illustrious career. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kathleen Battle and experience the magic of her voice.
Roméo et Juliette: Ah, je veux vivre dans ce reveCharles Gounod, Kathleen Battle, Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Myung-Whun Chung
Porgy and Bess: SummertimeGeorge Gershwin, Kathleen Battle, Orchestra of St. Luke's, André Previn
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17: E pur cosi - Piangerò la sorte miaGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Battle, Margo Garrett
Manon: Allons, il le faut - Adieu, notre petite tableJules Massenet, Kathleen Battle, Choeurs de l'Opera Bastille, Denis Dubois, Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Myung-Whun Chung
Don Giovanni, K. 527: No. 12, Batti, batti, o bel MasettoWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kathleen Battle, Berliner Philharmoniker, Herbert von Karajan
Oedipus, Z. 583: Music For A WhileHenry Purcell, Kathleen Battle, James Levine
Das Veilchen, K. 476Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kathleen Battle, James Levine
Ridente la calma, K. 152 (After J. Mysliveček)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kathleen Battle, James Levine
L'elisir d'amore: "Benedette queste carte!"Gaetano Donizetti, Kathleen Battle, Dawn Upshaw, Luciano Pavarotti, Metropolitan Opera Chorus, David Stivender, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, James Levine
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: No. 3 Song with Chorus "You spotted snakes"Felix Mendelssohn, Kathleen Battle, Frederica von Stade, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa, Tanglewood Festival Chorus, John Oliver
Porgy and Bess: I loves you, PorgyGeorge Gershwin, Kathleen Battle, Orchestra of St. Luke's, André Previn
La traviata: "Signora...Che t'accadde...Parigi, o cara"Giuseppe Verdi, Kathleen Battle, Margaret Jane Wray, Plácido Domingo, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, James Levine, Max Epstein
Joshua, HWV 64, Pt. 3: No. 63, Oh, had I Jubal's lyreGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Battle, James Levine
Der Hirt auf dem Felsen, D. 965Franz Schubert, Kathleen Battle, James Levine, Karl Leister
Kathleen Battle, the acclaimed American operatic soprano, is celebrated for her distinctive vocal range and tone, which have captivated audiences worldwide. Born in Portsmouth, Ohio, Battle first gained recognition through her concert performances with major orchestras in the 1970s before making her opera debut in 1975. Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, she expanded her repertoire to include both lyric and coloratura soprano roles, solidifying her status as one of the finest sopranos of her time. Battle made history as the first African American female opera singer to win both a Grammy and an Emmy, and she has since garnered five Grammy Awards for her extraordinary contributions to the operatic and classical music scenes. After a notable hiatus from the Metropolitan Opera, Battle returned in 2016 and 2024 for memorable performances, showcasing her enduring artistry and vocal beauty. Her mesmerizing performances continue to inspire and enchant audiences, making her a legendary figure in the world of opera and classical music.
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Kathleen Battle
