Ian Bostridge, renowned English tenor, collaborates with the virtuoso guitarist Xuefei Yang in this captivating album, "Songs from Our Ancestors." Released in 2016 under the Globe Music label, this collection spans a rich tapestry of genres, including requiem, choral, and classical, offering a diverse and enchanting listening experience. The album features 22 tracks, each meticulously crafted to showcase the unique talents of Bostridge and Yang.
The album opens with a haunting rendition of John Dowland's "In darkness let me dwell," setting the stage for a journey through time and musical styles. Bostridge's powerful vocals are beautifully complemented by Yang's exquisite guitar arrangements, creating a harmonious blend that resonates deeply. The album includes a mix of traditional and contemporary pieces, such as arrangements of works by Franz Schubert and Frederic Chopin, as well as original compositions by Stephen Goss.
"Songs from Our Ancestors" is not just a collection of songs but a testament to the enduring power of music to connect us with our past. The album features a variety of languages and cultural influences, reflecting the rich heritage from which these songs originate. From the delicate beauty of "Flow, my tears" to the lively energy of "Sword Dance," each track offers a unique perspective on the human experience.
The album's duration of one hour and eight minutes ensures a comprehensive and immersive listening experience. Whether you are a fan of classical music or simply appreciate beautiful vocals and guitar playing, "Songs from Our Ancestors" is sure to captivate and inspire. The collaboration between Ian Bostridge and Xuefei Yang is a testament to their artistic vision and dedication to their craft, making this album a standout in the world of classical music.
2016 Globe Music2016 Globe Music
Tracks
Fourth Book of Songs: In darkness let me dwellJohn Dowland, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
First Book of Songs: Come again, sweet love doth now inviteJohn Dowland, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Second Book of Songs: White as lilies was her faceJohn Dowland, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
First Book of Songs: My thoughts are winged with hopesJohn Dowland, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Second Book of Songs: Flow, my tears, fall from your springsJohn Dowland, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Drunken Ecstasy (arr. Xuefei Yang for guitar)Xuefei Yang, Ruan Ji
Gloriana, Op. 53: The Second Lute Song of the Earl of Essex (arr. J. Bream for voice and guitar)Julian Bream, Benjamin Britten, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Flowing Water (arr. Xuefei Yang for guitar)Anonymous, Xuefei Yang
Schwanengesang, D. 957: No. 4. Ständchen (Serenade) (arr. for voice and guitar)Anonymous, Franz Schubert, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Die Mainacht, D. 194 (arr. for voice and guitar)Anonymous, Franz Schubert, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Der König in Thule, Op. 5, No. 5, D. 367 (arr. for voice and guitar)Anonymous, Franz Schubert, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
An die Musik, Op. 88, No. 4, D. 547 (arr. for voice and guitar)Anonymous, Franz Schubert, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Sword Dance (arr. Xuefei Yang for guitar)Xu Changjun, Xuefei Yang
Letters from Composers: No. 3. Franz Schubert to a FriendDominick Argento, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Letters from Composers: No. 1. Frederic Chopin to a FriendDominick Argento, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
Shuo ChangYi Chen, Xuefei Yang
The Book of Songs: No. 1. She threw me a quinceStephen Goss, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
The Book of Songs: No. 2. Oh, you with the blue collarStephen Goss, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
The Book of Songs: No. 3. Plucking the rushesStephen Goss, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
The Book of Songs: No. 4. PastoralStephen Goss, Xuefei Yang
The Book of Songs: No. 5. In the tavernStephen Goss, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang
The Book of Songs: No. 6. LamentStephen Goss, Ian Bostridge, Xuefei Yang