Dive into the world of Giacomo Puccini with this stunning 1998 recording of "Suor Angelica," a one-act opera that stands as a testament to the composer's mastery of the romantic opera genre. This album, released under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, features the powerful vocals of Dame Joan Sutherland, Christa Ludwig, and a stellar supporting cast, accompanied by the National Philharmonic Orchestra. The opera, with a libretto by Giovacchino Forzano, is part of Puccini's renowned "Trittico," alongside "Il Tabarro" and "Gianni Schicchi."
"Suor Angelica" unfolds over fourteen captivating tracks, each bringing to life the poignant story of Sister Angelica, a young nun grappling with her past and her faith. The opera's rich tapestry of arias and ensembles, including the haunting "Ah, son dannata!" and the serene "Ave Maria, piena di gratia," showcases Puccini's unparalleled ability to evoke deep human experiences through music. The album's duration of just over an hour ensures an immersive experience from start to finish.
This recording is a essential addition to any classical music collection, offering a profound exploration of Puccini's operatic genius. The blend of powerful vocals, intricate orchestration, and timeless storytelling makes "Suor Angelica" a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Suor Angelica: Ave Maria, piena di gratiaGiacomo Puccini, Dame Joan Sutherland, The London Opera Chorus, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Sorelle in umiltà, mancaste alla quindenaGiacomo Puccini, Elizabeth Connell, Helen Walker, Doreen Walker, Enid Hartle, Marie McLaughlin, Isobel Buchanan, Miriam Bowen, The London Opera Chorus, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: O sorelle in pio lavoroGiacomo Puccini, Isobel Buchanan, Dame Joan Sutherland, Elizabeth Connell, Miriam Bowen, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Ho un desiderio anch'io!Giacomo Puccini, Della Jones, Isobel Buchanan, Dame Joan Sutherland, Miriam Bowen, Janet Price, The London Opera Chorus, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Laudata Maria! E sempre sia!Giacomo Puccini, Elizabeth Gale, Hannah Francis, Della Jones, Dame Joan Sutherland, Isobel Buchanan, The London Opera Chorus, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Suor Angelica! Madre, Madre, parlate!Giacomo Puccini, Anne Collins, Dame Joan Sutherland, The London Opera Chorus, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Il principe Gualtiero vostro padreGiacomo Puccini, Christa Ludwig, Dame Joan Sutherland, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Nel silenzio di quei raccoglimentiGiacomo Puccini, Christa Ludwig, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Tutto ho offerto all Vergine, sì, tuttoGiacomo Puccini, Dame Joan Sutherland, Christa Ludwig, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Senza mamma, o bimbo, tu sei mortoGiacomo Puccini, Dame Joan Sutherland, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Sorella, o buona sorellaGiacomo Puccini, Isobel Buchanan, The London Opera Chorus, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: La grazie è dicesa dal cieloGiacomo Puccini, Dame Joan Sutherland, The London Opera Chorus, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Suor Angelica: Ah, son dannata!Giacomo Puccini, Dame Joan Sutherland, The London Opera Chorus, National Philharmonic Orchestra, Richard Bonynge
Tosca / Act 2: "Vissi d'arte, vissi d'amore"Giacomo Puccini, Dame Joan Sutherland, New Philharmonia Orchestra, Richard Bonynge