Experience the timeless artistry of Kathleen Ferrier in "The HMV Sessions 1944-1945," a captivating collection of operatic and classical gems recorded during the mid-20th century. This album, released by Warner Classics, offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich, resonant voice of one of the most celebrated contraltos of all time. Ferrier's performances, accompanied by the masterful Gerald Moore on piano, span a diverse range of compositions from renowned composers such as Gluck, Brahms, Elgar, Handel, and Purcell. From the hauntingly beautiful "What Is Life to Me Without Thee?" by Gluck to the serene "Come to Me, Soothing Sleep" by Handel, each track showcases Ferrier's extraordinary vocal range and interpretive depth. The album, recorded in 1944 and 1945, features 13 tracks that collectively highlight Ferrier's ability to convey profound emotion and technical brilliance. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a treasure trove of musical excellence that stands the test of time.
Brahms: 49 Deutsche Volkslieder, WoO 33: No. 12, Feinsliebchen, du sollst mir nicht barfuss geh'nJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Elgar: The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: "My Work Is Done" - "It Is Because"Edward Elgar, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Greene / Arr. Roper: O God of Righteousness: "I Will Lay Me Down In Peace"Maurice Greene, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Greene / Arr. Roper: Praise the Lord, O My Soul: "O Praise the Lord"Maurice Greene, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Handel: Ottone, re di Germania, HWV 15: "Spring Is Coming"George Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Handel: Ottone, re di Germania, HWV 15: "Come to Me, Soothing Sleep"George Frideric Handel, Kathleen Ferrier, Gerald Moore
Purcell: Come Ye Sons of Art, Z. 323 "Ode for Queen Mary's Birthday": No. 3, Duet. "Sound the Trumpet"Henry Purcell, Kathleen Ferrier, Isobel Baillie, Gerald Moore
Purcell: The Indian Queen, Z. 630: "Let Us Wander, Not Unseen"Henry Purcell, Kathleen Ferrier, Isobel Baillie, Gerald Moore
Purcell: King Arthur, Z. 628: "Shepherd, Shepherd, Leave Decoying"Henry Purcell, Kathleen Ferrier, Isobel Baillie, Gerald Moore
Kathleen Ferrier, the renowned English contralto, captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful and emotive voice. Born Kathleen Mary Ferrier, she seamlessly blended folksongs and popular ballads with classical masterpieces by composers such as Bach, Brahms, Mahler, and Elgar. Her versatility shone on stage, in concert halls, and through her recordings, earning her an international reputation. Tragically, her career was cut short by cancer, but her legacy endures, continuing to inspire and move fans of opera and classical music alike.
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Kathleen Ferrier
