Dive into the enchanting world of opera and classical music with Kiri Te Kanawa's "Artist Portrait 2007," a captivating collection released in 2004. This album showcases the extraordinary talent of Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, a New Zealand opera singer renowned for her mellow yet vibrant lyric soprano voice. Spanning a generous 72 minutes, the album features 20 tracks that highlight Te Kanawa's versatility and mastery of her craft.
The album opens with beloved arias from Puccini's "Gianni Schicchi" and "Tosca," followed by a poignant selection from "Madama Butterfly." Te Kanawa's renditions of these iconic pieces are nothing short of breathtaking, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion and technical brilliance. The album also includes works by Mozart and Wagner, demonstrating Te Kanawa's range and her ability to bring depth and nuance to each role.
In addition to these operatic gems, the album features a selection of songs by Michel Legrand, including the timeless "The Windmills of Your Mind" and "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?" These tracks add a touch of elegance and sophistication, highlighting Te Kanawa's versatility as a performer.
The album also includes traditional and anonymous works, arranged by Cullen, adding a layer of cultural richness to the collection. Te Kanawa's ability to seamlessly transition between different styles and genres is a testament to her artistry and dedication to her craft.
"Artist Portrait 2007" is not just a collection of songs; it is a testament to Kiri Te Kanawa's enduring legacy in the world of opera and classical music. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album was released under the Warner Classics International label, ensuring high-quality production and sound. So, sit back, relax, and let the enchanting voice of Kiri Te Kanawa transport you to a world of musical excellence.
Puccini : Gianni Schicchi : Act 1 "O mio babbino caro" [Lauretta]Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa, Kent Nagano, Orchestre de l'Opéra de Lyon
Puccini: Tosca, Act 2: "Vissi d'arte" (Tosca)Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa, Kent Nagano, Orchestre de l'Opéra de Lyon
Puccini: Madama Butterfly, Act 2: "Un bel di" [Butterfly]Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa, Kent Nagano, Orchestre de l'Opéra de Lyon
Mozart: Così fan tutte, K. 588, Act 1: "Come scoglio immoto resta" (Fiordiligi)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kiri Te Kanawa, Alain Lombard, Orchestre Philharmonique De Strasbourg
Wagner : Tannhäuser : Act 1 "Dich, teure Halle, grüss' ich wieder" [Elisabeth]Richard Wagner, Kiri Te Kanawa, Marek Janowski, Philharmonia Orchestra
Wagner : Tannhäuser : Act 3 "Allmächt'ge Jungfrau, hör mein Flehen" [Elisabeth]Richard Wagner, Kiri Te Kanawa, Marek Janowski, Philharmonia Orchestra
Puccini : "Morire?"Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa
Puccini : "Canto d'anime"Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa
Legrand : MagicMichel Legrand, Kiri Te Kanawa, London Studio Orchestra
Legrand : The Windmills of your MindMichel Legrand, Kiri Te Kanawa, London Studio Orchestra
Anonymous / Arr. Cullen: Coventry CarolAnonymous, Kiri Te Kanawa, Coventry Cathedral Choir, Lichfield Cathedral Choir, BBC Philharmonic, Robin Stapleton
Anonymous / Arr. Cullen: There Is No Rose of Such VirtueAnonymous, Kiri Te Kanawa, Coventry Cathedral Choir, Lichfield Cathedral Choir, BBC Philharmonic, Robin Stapleton
Traditional / Arr. Cullen: The Virgin Mary Had a Baby BoyTraditional, Kiri Te Kanawa, Michael George, Coventry Cathedral Choir, Lichfield Cathedral Choir, BBC Philharmonic, Robin Stapleton
Legrand : "Blue, green, grey and gone"Michel Legrand, Kiri Te Kanawa
Legrand : "What are you doing the rest of your life?"Michel Legrand, Kiri Te Kanawa, London Studio Orchestra
Puccini: La rondine, Act 1: "Chi il bel sogno di Doretta" (Magda)Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa, Kent Nagano, Orchestre de l'Opéra de Lyon
Puccini: Turandot, Act 1: "Signore ascolta!" (Liù)Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa, Kent Nagano, Orchestre de l'Opéra de Lyon
Puccini : "Sole e amore"Giacomo Puccini, Kiri Te Kanawa
Puccini : La Bohème : Act 1 "Si. Mi chiamano Mimi" [Mimi]Giacomo Puccini, Kent Nagano, London Symphony Orchestra
Puccini : La Bohème : Act 1 "O soave fanciulla" [Mimi]Giacomo Puccini, Kent Nagano, London Symphony Orchestra