Michael Nyman's "The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat" is a captivating chamber opera that delves into the intricate world of neurological mystery and human perception. Originally composed in 1986, this 2016 release by Naxos brings the opera to life with a compelling narrative and Michael Nyman's signature minimalist style, making it a standout piece in the classical genre.
The opera is based on a true story, drawn from the writings of renowned neurologist Oliver Sacks. It follows the life of Dr. P, a man suffering from visual agnosia, a condition that impairs his ability to recognize objects and faces, leading to the title's humorous yet poignant scenario. With a libretto by Christopher Rawlence, the story is brought to life through a series of vignettes that explore Dr. P's struggles and the profound impact of his condition on his daily life.
Michael Nyman's score is a masterclass in minimalism, featuring repetitive motifs and a hauntingly beautiful piano melody that underscores the opera's themes of loss, identity, and the complexities of the human mind. The 17-track album spans 58 minutes, each piece seamlessly blending into the next to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
The album features a talented cast of performers, including Ryan MacPherson and Rebecca Sjöwall, who bring depth and nuance to their roles. The chamber ensemble, conducted by Michael Nyman himself, delivers a powerful and evocative performance that highlights the intricate details of the score.
"Michael Nyman: The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat" is not just a piece of music; it's an exploration of the human condition, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and a celebration of the power of music to illuminate the darkest corners of the mind. Whether you're a fan of classical music, opera, or simply appreciate a great story, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2016 Naxos2016 Naxos
Tracks
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: Prologue. Neurology's Favorite Term Is DeficitMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The First Examination. TrafficMichael Nyman, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Ryan MacPherson, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Shoe. Can I Help?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Slides. You Can See Very ClearlyMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The River. What Do You See Now?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: Scene 2, The Dressing RitualMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Matthew Treviño, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The House Call. Bösendorfer!Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: Ich grolle nichtMichael Nyman, Matthew Treviño, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Solids. But What of the Parietal RegionsMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Matthew Treviño, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Photographs. What Is This?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Rose. Lost... What Is This?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Glove. Now, What Is This?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Chess Game. Pawn to King 4Michael Nyman, Matthew Treviño, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Street. From Our EndMichael Nyman, Matthew Treviño, Rebecca Sjöwall, Ryan MacPherson, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Paintings. Your Husband's a PainterMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Matthew Treviño, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: The Wife. Tell Me, How Does He Manage?Michael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Matthew Treviño, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: Epilogue. The Prognosis. I Cannot Tell You What Is WrongMichael Nyman, Ryan MacPherson, Rebecca Sjöwall, Nashville Opera Orchestra, Dean Williamson
Michael Nyman is a renowned English composer, pianist, and musicologist celebrated for his innovative and prolific output across various genres. Born in London, Nyman is best known for his distinctive film scores, notably the multi-platinum soundtrack to Jane Campion's "The Piano," which blends classical elements with the energy of rock and minimalism. His compositions often combine Western classical music with a high-octane, propulsive style, earning him a reputation as one of the UK's most celebrated contemporary composers. Beyond film, Nyman has written numerous operas, concerti, string quartets, and chamber works, many of which are performed by his own Michael Nyman Band. His restless creativity extends to conducting, writing, photography, and film-making, making him a versatile and influential figure in the music world. Nyman's unique approach to composition, often described as "pump-action Purcell," continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.
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Michael Nyman
