Jake Heggie's poignant opera, Three Decembers, is a masterpiece that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the passage of time. Released on 1 December 2008 by Albany Records, this captivating album spans 1 hour and 28 minutes, taking the listener on a deeply emotional journey.
The opera is divided into two acts, each exploring the intricate dynamics between three characters: Charlie, Maddy, and Bea. Through a series of scenes, arias, and duets, Heggie weaves a rich tapestry of sound, expertly conveying the characters' inner turmoil, joy, and sorrow.
From the opening Prelude to the final Farewell, the album is a testament to Heggie's skill as a composer. The music is both beautiful and haunting, with each track seamlessly flowing into the next to create a cohesive and immersive experience. The Shoe Duet, the Moon's Lullaby, and Maddy's poignant aria are just a few of the many highlights that make this album a must-listen.
With its universal themes and stunning music, Three Decembers is an album that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced love, loss, or longing. Jake Heggie's masterpiece is a powerful exploration of the human condition, and this recording is a stunning tribute to his craft.
(C) 2008 Albany Records
Tracks
Three Decembers: Act I: PreludeJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Scene 1: A Christmas LetterJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Trio, "Once, before you were born?"Jake Heggie, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Gene Scheer, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Aria - CharlieJake Heggie, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Gene Scheer, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Scene 2: Christmas Party in BarbadosJake Heggie, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Gene Scheer, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Song - Maddy: "About to Break"Jake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Scene 3: Backstage, Maddy's Dressing RoomJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Duet - Maddy & Bea: "In the months, in the years ahead?"Jake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Scene 4: Charlie & Bea on the Golden Gate BridgeJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act I: Duet: "What do you remember about Dad?"Jake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Scene 1: Charlie's ApartmentJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Scene 2: The Moon's LullabyJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Scene 3: Maddy's ApartmentJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Aria - BeaJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Shoes Duet - Bea & CharlieJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Maddy: "You look lovely, dear?"Jake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Trio: "I don't believe you?"Jake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: InterludeJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Maddy's memorial at a Broadway theaterJake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers
Three Decembers: Act 2: Farewell: "All in all, isn't life simply grand?"Jake Heggie, Gene Scheer, Jake Hegge; Gene Scheer, Houston Grand Opera, Patrick Summers