Magdalena Kožená's "Mozart / Gluck / Myslivecek Arias" is a captivating collection of operatic arias that showcases the remarkable versatility and artistry of one of today's most celebrated mezzo-sopranos. Released in 2001 under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album spans a rich tapestry of compositions from three influential composers of the classical era: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Christoph Willibald Gluck, and Josef Mysliveček. Accompanied by the Prague Philharmonia and conducted by Michel Swierczewski, Kožená delivers a performance that is both technically impeccable and deeply expressive.
The album features a diverse selection of arias, each chosen to highlight Kožená's vocal prowess and emotional depth. From the tender and introspective to the dramatic and impassioned, these pieces offer a comprehensive exploration of the mezzo-soprano repertoire. Notable tracks include "Parto, ma tu ben mio" from Mozart's "La clemenza di Tito," "Le belle immagini" from Gluck's "Paride ed Elena," and "Sarò qual è il torrente" from Mysliveček's "Antigona." Each aria is performed with a level of nuance and sensitivity that brings the characters and stories to life, making this album a true gem for opera enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album is a testament to Kožená's ability to connect with the music and convey its essence to the audience. Whether you are a seasoned opera aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "Mozart / Gluck / Myslivecek Arias" offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
La clemenza di Tito, K. 621, Act I: No. 9, Aria. Parto, ma tu ben mioWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, Jindrich Pavlis, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Paride ed Elena, Wq. 39, Act II: Le belle immaginiChristoph Willibald Gluck, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Isacco figura del Redentore, Act II: Qui per pietà mi dice – Deh! Parlate, parlateJosef Mysliveček, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Le nozze di Figaro, K. 492, Act II: No. 12, Voi che sapeteWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Antigona, Act II: Sarò qual è il torrenteJosef Mysliveček, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Idomeneo, K. 366, Act I: Recit. Ah, qual gelido orror – Il padre adoratoWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Paride ed Elena, Wq. 39, Act I: O del mio dolce ardorChristoph Willibald Gluck, Magdalena Kožená, Vladislav Borovka, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
Lucio Silla, K. 135, Act I: Recit. Dunque sperar poss'io – Aria. Il tenero momentoWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
La finta giardiniera, K. 196, Act III: Va pure ad altri in braccioWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
L'Olimpiade, Act II: Dunque Licida ingrato – Più non si trovanoJosef Mysliveček, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
La Clemenza di Tito, Wq. 16, Act II: Se mai senti spirarti sul voltoChristoph Willibald Gluck, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
L'Olimpiade, Act II: Che non mi disseJosef Mysliveček, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski
La clemenza di Tito, K. 621, Act II: No. 19, Aria (Rondo). Deh per questo istante soloWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Magdalena Kožená, PKF – Prague Philharmonia, Michel Swierczewski