Vocal Recital: Mattila, Karita - Schumann, R. / Brahms, J. / Merikanto, O. / Melartin, E. / Sibelius, J. / Schubert, F. / Dvorak, A.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting vocal artistry of Karita Mattila with this captivating album, released on January 1, 2004, under the Ondine label. This collection spans a rich tapestry of classical, opera, and choral genres, showcasing the versatility and depth of Mattila's extraordinary talent. The album features a diverse array of compositions by renowned composers such as Robert Schumann, Johannes Brahms, Oskar Merikanto, Ernst Melartin, Jean Sibelius, Franz Schubert, and Antonín Dvořák.

From the tender and intimate "Widmung" by Schumann to the powerful and dramatic arias like "Ritorna vincitor!" from Verdi's "Aida" and "Vissi d'arte" from Puccini's "Tosca," Mattila's voice shines with exquisite nuance and emotional resonance. The album also includes beautiful arrangements of popular musical pieces, such as "Somewhere" from "West Side Story" and "I Could Have Danced All Night" from "My Fair Lady," arranged by R. Niemi.

Mattila is accompanied by the skillful Ilmo Ranta on piano, with additional orchestral arrangements by Y. Hjelt and R. Niemi, enhancing the depth and richness of the performances. The album's duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes offers a comprehensive journey through a variety of musical styles and emotions, highlighting Mattila's ability to convey the essence of each composition with grace and passion.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a testament to Karita Mattila's extraordinary vocal prowess and her ability to bring each piece to life with unparalleled artistry.