Dive into the rich tapestry of American musical theater with Jerome Kern's "Show Boat," a captivating 1989 studio album that brings to life the timeless music from the legendary Broadway show. This album, released on Warner Classics, is a meticulous presentation of Kern's iconic score, accompanied by the evocative lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein II, based on Edna Ferber's celebrated novel.
Spanning a generous 75 minutes, this album features a stellar cast, including the powerful vocals of Karla Burns, Jerry Hadley, Bruce Hubbard, and Frederica von Stade, among others. The London Sinfonietta, conducted by John McGlinn, provides the orchestral accompaniment, ensuring that every note resonates with the authenticity of the original Broadway production.
"Show Boat" is a musical journey through the early 20th century, exploring themes of love, loss, and the enduring spirit of show business. From the haunting melodies of "Ol' Man River" to the romantic ballad "You Are Love," each track is a testament to Kern's genius and Hammerstein's lyrical prowess. The album includes both well-known favorites and lesser-heard gems, offering a comprehensive overview of the show's musical landscape.
This recording is not just a collection of songs but a vivid portrayal of a bygone era, captured in the rich, warm tones of the late 1980s studio production. Whether you're a seasoned fan of musical theater or a newcomer to the genre, "Show Boat" promises an enchanting experience that celebrates the golden age of Broadway.
Kern: Show Boat, Act 1: No. 1, OvertureJerome Kern, London Sinfonietta, John McGlinn
Cotton BlossomJerome Kern, John McGlinn/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Where's the mate for me?/Make BelieveJerome Kern, John McGlinn/London Sinfonietta/Frederica von Stade/Jerry Hadley, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, Act I, Scene 1: Ol' Man RiverJerome Kern, Bruce Hubbard/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Can't help lovin' dat manJerome Kern, John McGlinn/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/Frederica von Stade/Teresa Stratas/Karla Burns/Bruce Hubbard, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 1, Scene 3: Life on the Wicked StageJerome Kern, Paige O'Hara/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 1, Scene 3: Till good luck comes my wayJerome Kern, Jerry Hadley/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 1, Scene 5: I might fall back on youJerome Kern, David Garrison/Paige O'Hara/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 1, Scene 5: Queenie's BallyhooJerome Kern, Karla Burns/Robert Nichols/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
You are loveJerome Kern, John McGlinn/London Sinfonietta/Frederica von Stade/Jerry Hadley/Nancy Kulp, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Finale Act 1Jerome Kern, John McGlinn/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/Frederica von Stade, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 2, Scene 1: At the fairJerome Kern, Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Why do I love you?Jerome Kern, John McGlinn/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/Frederica von Stade/Jerry Hadley/Robert Nichols, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 2, Scene 4: Bill (lyrics P. G. Wodehouse (1918), rev. Oscar Hammerstein II (1927))Jerome Kern, Teresa Stratas/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 2, Scene 6: Goodbye, my lady love (Words and Music by Joseph E. Howard)Jerome Kern, David Garrison/Paige O'Hara/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 2, Scene 6: After the ball (Words and music by Charles K. Harris)Jerome Kern, Frederica von Stade, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 2, Scene 7: Hey, fellerJerome Kern, Karla Burns/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Show Boat, ACT 2, Scene 9: Finale UltimoJerome Kern, Frederica von Stade/Jerry Hadley/Bruce Hubbard/Robert Nichols/Lillian Gish/Ambrosian Chorus/London Sinfonietta/John McGlinn, John McGlinn, London Sinfonietta
Jerome Kern, born in New York City in 1885, was a titan of American musical theatre and popular music, leaving an indelible mark on the early 20th-century stage. With over 700 songs to his credit, Kern's compositions have become timeless classics, enchanting audiences with their memorable melodies and lyrical depth. His collaborations with the era's leading librettists and lyricists, including Oscar Hammerstein II and Ira Gershwin, resulted in iconic works like "Ol' Man River," "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man," and "The Way You Look Tonight." Kern's innovative approach to musical comedy earned him the title of the "father of the modern musical theater," a testament to his enduring influence on the genre. His journey began humbly, playing piano and organ in high school, but his talent quickly propelled him to the forefront of American theatre, crafting unforgettable songs that continue to resonate with audiences today.
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