Strauss, Fauré, Debussy, Poulenc, Wolf & Berg - Wigmore Hall Live - Christiane Karg

Album Description

Experience the captivating debut of young Bavarian soprano Christiane Karg at the prestigious Wigmore Hall in London, captured live on this exquisite album. Recorded on July 19, 2012, this recording showcases Karg's remarkable vocal prowess and versatility, accompanied by the masterful pianist Malcolm Martineau.

The album is a beautiful journey through the floral and nocturnal themes of some of the most beloved composers in classical music. It begins with rare, early songs by Richard Strauss, including "Die erwachte Rose" and "Rote Rosen," offering a unique glimpse into the composer's formative years. The program then blooms into dreamy settings by Gabriel Fauré, Claude Debussy, and Francis Poulenc, culminating in the mysterious and enchanting works of Hugo Wolf and Alban Berg.

Karg's pure, radiant voice shines in this diverse repertoire, demonstrating her ability to navigate the delicate nuances of each composer's style. From the lush harmonies of Fauré's "Mädchenblumen" to the evocative imagery of Debussy's "Ariettes oubliées," and the expressive depth of Wolf's "Eichendorff Lieder," Karg's performances are a testament to her artistry and musicality.

This live recording, released by Wigmore Hall Live on September 24, 2013, is a stunning introduction to one of Germany's most active and versatile young sopranos. With a duration of 71 minutes, the album features 30 tracks that showcase the full range of Karg's talents, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

September 24, 2013

About Christiane Karg

Christiane Karg, born in the charming town of Feuchtwangen, Bavaria, has established herself as one of Germany's most celebrated sopranos, captivating audiences worldwide with her powerful and expressive voice. Her journey began with studies at the prestigious Salzburg Mozarteum, where she honed her craft under the guidance of Heiner Hopfner. Karg's breakout role came with her performances of Mozart's iconic characters at the renowned Salzburg Festival, launching her international career.

Her repertoire is as impressive as it is diverse, with standout performances including Mozart's Susanna in "Le Nozze di Figaro" at the Dutch National Opera and the Metropolitan Opera, Strauss's Sophie in "Der Rosenkavalier" at La Scala, and Poulenc's "La Voix Humaine." Karg's ability to embody complex characters and deliver emotionally resonant performances has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following.

In addition to her operatic roles, Karg is also a gifted Lied and concert singer, showcasing her versatility and depth as an artist. Her upcoming performances include engagements with the Budapest Festival Orchestra and a solo recital at Het Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, demonstrating her continued growth and artistic evolution. Whether on the opera stage or in concert halls, Christiane Karg's performances are not to be missed.