Nicolai Gedda: Lyric Poet of the Tenor Voice

Album Description

Dive into the golden age of opera and classical music with Nicolai Gedda's monumental collection, "Lyric Poet of the Tenor Voice." This extensive 11-disc set, released by EMI Classics in 2010, celebrates the illustrious career of Swedish tenor Nicolai Gedda, who turned 85 the same year. Spanning a vast repertoire, this album features over 230 tracks and boasts a duration of nearly 14 hours, offering an unparalleled journey through the world of opera and classical vocal artistry.

The album showcases Gedda's remarkable versatility and mastery, featuring arias and excerpts from beloved operas such as "Die Zauberflöte," "Lohengrin," and "Les Huguenots," alongside sacred works like Bach's "St. Matthew Passion" and "Mass in B Minor." Gedda's crystalline tenor voice shines in pieces from composers ranging from Bach and Handel to Mozart, Verdi, and Wagner, demonstrating his extraordinary range and interpretive depth.

This comprehensive collection is not just a testament to Gedda's vocal prowess but also a historical document of his enduring legacy. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, highlighting the timeless beauty of Nicolai Gedda's artistry.

19 februari 2010

This compilation (P) 2010 EMI Records Ltd.

About Nicolai Gedda

Nicolai Gedda, born Harry Gustaf Nikolai Gädda, was a Swedish operatic tenor renowned for his extraordinary versatility and cosmopolitan appeal. Debuting in 1951, Gedda's career spanned over five decades, during which he performed in the world's leading venues and left an indelible mark on the opera world. Born into poverty in Stockholm, Sweden, Gedda's journey to becoming a renowned opera star is a testament to his talent and dedication. He was adopted by his Russian-Swedish aunt, Olga Gedda, and later became a hovsångare, or royal court singer. Gedda's extensive discography, comprising over two hundred recordings, showcases his lyrical tenor voice and has made him one of the most widely recorded opera singers in history. His remarkable career earned him exceptional accolades and a place among the greatest tenors of the 20th century. Gedda passed away in 2017, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire opera enthusiasts worldwide.