Richard Strauss: Four Last Songs / Wagner: Arias from Tannhäuser

Dive into the captivating world of opera and classical music with Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen's stunning debut album, featuring iconic works by Richard Strauss and Richard Wagner. This exquisite collection, released on Decca Music Group Ltd. in 2019, showcases Davidsen's powerful and expressive voice, accompanied by the renowned Philharmonia Orchestra under the baton of Esa-Pekka Salonen.

The album opens with two vivid arias from Wagner's "Tannhäuser," demonstrating Davidsen's ability to bring depth and intensity to these iconic roles. The first half of the album is dedicated to Wagner's masterful compositions, while the second half delves into the enchanting songs of Richard Strauss. Highlights include Strauss's "Four Last Songs," a poignant and beautiful cycle that showcases Davidsen's lyrical and dramatic prowess.

With a total duration of 64 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the artistry of Lise Davidsen, who has quickly become one of the most exciting prospects in the opera world. The album's diverse repertoire, ranging from powerful arias to intimate lieder, offers a comprehensive showcase of Davidsen's vocal talents and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Richard Strauss, born in Munich in 1864, was a titan of late Romantic and early modern classical music, renowned for his innovative tone poems and operas. As a successor to the likes of Richard Wagner and Franz Liszt, Strauss' compositions are celebrated for their pioneering orchestration and advanced harmonic styles. His prolific career spanned over five decades, during which he composed 16 operas that continue to be widely performed today. Strauss' music, characterized by its dramatic intensity and rich orchestration, offers an immersive experience that transcends time, making him a dominant figure in classical music at the turn of the 20th century. His works, ranging from orchestral masterpieces to operatic triumphs, continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Strauss' legacy as a composer and conductor is a testament to his enduring influence on the world of classical music.