Experience the timeless beauty of Henry Purcell's masterpiece, "Dido and Aeneas," in this exquisite 2023 recording. This album, released on September 22, 2023, under the Pentatone label, offers a captivating journey through one of the most beloved operas of the Baroque era. Composed by Henry Purcell with a libretto by Nahum Tate, "Dido and Aeneas" is an opera in a prologue and three acts, renowned for its vibrant orchestral writing and colorful arias.
Spanning 57 minutes, this choral and classical album features 23 tracks that bring to life the tragic love story of Dido, Queen of Carthage, and Aeneas, the Trojan hero. The recording captures the essence of Purcell's genius, with each track meticulously performed to highlight the composer's intricate compositions and the librettist's poetic narrative. From the stirring "Overture" to the hauntingly beautiful "When I am laid," this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of "Dido and Aeneas."
Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this recording of "Dido and Aeneas" promises an enriching listening experience. The album's production, featuring performances from renowned artists, ensures that every note and lyric is delivered with precision and passion. Dive into the world of Henry Purcell and Nahum Tate, and let the timeless melodies and poignant lyrics of "Dido and Aeneas" enchant you.
2023 Pentatone Music B.V.2023 La Nuova Musica under exclusive license to Pentatone Music B.V.
Tracks
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626: OvertureHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act I: Shake the cloud - Banish SorrowHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Giulia Semenzato
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act I: Ah! BelindaHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Fleur Barron
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act I: Grief increases by concealing - When Monarchs unite - When could so much virtue springHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Fleur Barron, Giulia Semenzato
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act I: Fear no danger - See, your royal guest appearsHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Hilary Cronin, Giulia Semenzato
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act I: Cupid only throws the dart - If not for mine for Empire's sake - Persue thy conquest LoveHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Matthew Brook, Giulia Semenzato
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act I: To the hills and the vales - The Triumphing DanceHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: Prelude for the WitchesHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Avery Amereau, Helen Charlston, Martha McLorinan, Giulia Semenzato
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: Wayward sisters - Harm's our delightHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Avery Amereau, Helen Charlston
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: The queen of Carthage - Ho, Ho, HoHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Avery Amereau
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: Ruined ere the set of Sun! - The trojan Prince - Ho, Ho, HoHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Helen Charlston, Martha McLorinan, Avery Amereau
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: But ere we this perform - In our deep vaulted cell - DanceHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Helen Charlston, Martha McLorinan
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: The Grove - Thanks to these lonesome valesHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Giulia Semenzato
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: Gitter Ground at Dance - Often she visitsHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Hilary Cronin
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: Behold, apon my bending spear - The skies are coloured - Haste haste to townHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Matthew Brook, Giulia Semenzato, Fleur Barron
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act II: Stay PrinceHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Tim Mead, Matthew Brook, Avery Amereau
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III: The Sailors danceHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III: See, See the flags - Our next motion - Destruction's our delightHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Avery Amereau, Helen Charlston, Martha McLorinan
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III: The Witches' DanceHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III: Your counsel all is urged in vain - Great mindsHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Fleur Barron, Matthew Brook, Giulia Semenzato
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III: Thy Hand BelindaHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Fleur Barron
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III: When I am laidHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates, Fleur Barron
Dido and Aeneas, Z. 626, Act III: With drooping wingsHenry Purcell, La Nuova Musica, David Bates
Henry Purcell, born in 1659 in Westminster, London, is celebrated as England's greatest composer of the Baroque era. Despite his tragically short life, ending at the age of 36 in 1695, Purcell's prolific output and innovative spirit have left an indelible mark on classical music. Known for his over 100 enchanting songs, the heart-wrenching opera "Dido and Aeneas," and his magical incidental music for "The Fairy Queen," a adaptation of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Purcell's compositions continue to captivate audiences worldwide. His profound influence earned him the title "Orpheus Britannicus" and solidified his status as a pioneer of English music from the Restoration period until the early 20th century. Purcell's musical genius transcends time, making his works essential listening for any classical music enthusiast.
Vinylscout
Henry Purcell
