Immerse yourself in the profound and powerful world of Richard Wagner with this captivating album, released on January 1, 2003, by Urania. This collection showcases Wagner's mastery of opera and classical music, featuring iconic pieces from his most renowned works: "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg," "Götterdämmerung," "Parsifal," and "Tristan und Isolde."
The album opens with the stirring "Prelude to Act I" from "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg," setting the stage for a journey through Wagner's rich musical landscape. It continues with the hauntingly beautiful "Prelude to Act I" from "Tristan und Isolde," followed by the tender "Mild und Leise," a poignant moment from the same opera. The intensity builds with "Starke Scheite schichtet mir dort" from "Götterdämmerung," a dramatic piece that highlights Wagner's ability to convey deep emotion through music.
The album also includes the serene "Prelude to Act I" from "Parsifal," a work known for its spiritual depth, and the soothing "Good Friday spell," another highlight from the same opera. Each piece is performed with exquisite skill by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by the legendary Victor De Sabata, with Eileen Farrell lending her voice to the vocal selections.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of Wagner's most celebrated compositions. Whether you're a seasoned fan of classical music or a newcomer to Wagner's work, this collection offers a compelling introduction to the composer's genius and a rich listening experience.