Recitals: An Evening with Jessye Norman

Experience the unparalleled artistry of Jessye Norman in "Recitals: An Evening with Jessye Norman," a captivating live album released in 2009. This collection showcases the renowned American opera singer and recitalist's extraordinary vocal range and interpretive depth, spanning a diverse repertoire that highlights her versatility and mastery.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Dido's Lament" from Henry Purcell's opera "Dido and Aeneas," followed by a selection of Richard Wagner's "Wesendonk Lieder." Norman's powerful and nuanced performances of these pieces demonstrate her renowned ability to bring depth and drama to the stage.

The album also features a set of Franz Schubert's "Rückert Lieder," showcasing Norman's ability to convey intimacy and subtlety. Additionally, the album includes traditional spirituals, such as "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child" and "My Lord, What a Morning," highlighting Norman's connection to her roots and her ability to infuse these pieces with profound spiritual depth.

Norman's interpretation of Gabriel Fauré's "Sainte" and "Beau soir," along with Ernest Chausson's "Deux mélodies hébraïques," further underscores her linguistic and stylistic versatility. The album concludes with Hugo Wolf's "Er ist's," a testament to Norman's ability to convey both passion and restraint.

Throughout the album, Norman's commanding presence and technical brilliance are on full display, making "Recitals: An Evening with Jessye Norman" a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of our time. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, this album offers a compelling introduction to the artistry of Jessye Norman.