Cantatas & Duets for Soprano Alto & Tenor

1. Ammore, brutto figlio de pottana, chamber cantata for tenor & continuo
Composed by Alessandro Scarlatti
with Gian Paolo Fagotto

2. Sovente Amor mi chiama, chamber cantata, for alto & continuo
Composed by Alessandro Scarlatti
with Claudio Cavina

3. Son pur care le catene, chamber cantata, for soprano (or alto) & continuo
Composed by Alessandro Scarlatti
with Claudio Cavina , Cristina Miatello

4. Clori mia, Clori bella, chamber cantata, for soprano, flute & continuo
Composed by Alessandro Scarlatti
with Cristina Miatello , Ludovica Scoppola

5. Dimmi crudel, e quando, chamber cantata for soprano, alto & continuo
Composed by Alessandro Scarlatti
with Claudio Cavina , Cristina Miatello

Tracks:

Aria: Ich Habe Genug
Recitative: Ich Habe Genug. Mein Trost Ist Nur Allein
Aria: Schlummert Ein, Ihr Matten Augen
Recitative: Mein Gott! Wenn Kommt Das Schone: Nun!
Aria: Ich Freue Mich Auf Meinen Tod
Recitative: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut
Aria And Recitative: Stumme Seufzer, Stille Klagen
Recitative: doch Gott Muss Mir Gnadig Sein
Aria: Tief Gebuckt Und Voller Reue
Recitative: Auf Diese Schmerzensreu
Chorale: Ich, Dein Betrubtes Kind
Recitative: Ich Lege Mich In Diese Wunden
Aria: Wie Freudig Ist Mein Herz

Amazon.com

Lorraine Hunt Lieberson has been scantily represented on CD, and that makes this gorgeous, deeply felt release all the more valuable. Here she sings two Bach cantatas composed for solo voice. Her mezzo is not particularly heavy, but it can darken or lighten expressively, and she uses its dusky qualities handsomely. Ich habe genug was originally written for solo bass, but Bach revised it a few years later. The way the voice works with and around a solo oboe (amid the accompanying strings) is beautiful. Of particular note are the aria "Schlummert ein"--a lullaby which Lieberson sings with a long, sustained, hushed tone--and the final aria, in which the singer looks forward to her death and eternal peace; the latter is remarkable for its joyful, flowery vocal line, as upbeat as the lullaby is serene. Lieberson catches the mood, and her rhythmic accuracy, leaning on the beat, brings out the joy in the singer's religious fervor. The second cantata, similarly scored with a prominent solo oboe, begins with a recitative ("My heart swims in blood") and is a confession of guilt; by its close the tone has again turned vivacious, as the sinner looks forward to salvation. Lieberson's voice is capable of level upon level of dynamics, her soft singing is as impressive as her more outgoing expressions. This is a beautiful disc from an important singer. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

PROFILES OF BACH.......2007-06-29

My appreciation of the infinite musical genius of Bach only gains from hearing him interpreted by different artists. I already owned two formidable accounts of cantata 82, one from the great tenor Ian Bostridge in his debut disc, the other from a great bass (the work was originally written for a bass soloist) John Shirley-Quirk. Shirley-Quirk's performance dates from 1965, but he performs with the Academy of St Martin's under Marriner, and they were already committed to an `authentic' style in Bach and Handel. The authentic movement rapidly became `still more authentic' in the hands of, say, McCreesh, but Bostridge and Europa Galante in 2000, and now Hunt Lieberson with her Boston associates two years later, have settled for much the same style as Marriner's. She thus faces formidable competition (if that is any way to look at the matter), but the comparisons only invite gratitude and applause for the special excellence that each exhibits.

One thing that gives this disc a special appeal for me is that the instrumentalists are apparently freelancers. They are totally professional, but the professionalism manages to be combined with the special sense of enthusiasm that I associate more with good amateur music-making, a feeling of individuals coming together to make music together rather than the atmosphere of a band with contracts of tenure. The lengthy and garrulous liner-note tells us all about it, as well as much else. Lieberson's tempi are rather faster than those in the other sets, and the engineers have given her a more forward balance. No complaints from me, not when it is a voice like this. For exquisite vocal sound may I recommend in particular her low notes on `Schlummert ein' and the heavenly treatment of the imperfect cadence (a technical term of course) at `selig zu'.

I have no other account of cantata 199, an earlier work and not quite the equal of its great companion here. That makes this one all the more welcome, and the performance is fully on a par with the other. One interesting point is that the chorale is sung by Lieberson on her own, but as you might expect that gives me no kind of problem. This music is all radiant with Bach's perception of death as a gateway to final fulfilment, and it would be a very dull sort of atheist who can't sense and share the sheer transcendental greatness of the inspiration.

The recorded sound is just fine by me, provided there is no objection to the forward recording of the soloist, which is not overdone in the old manner by any means. The liner note is nothing if not informative, and I urge you to get through it to the end, with the help of a drink if necessary. Bach would not mind that in the least, if certain anecdotes about him are to be believed. Above all, this disc has brought the voice and musicianship of Lorraine Hunt Lieberson into my collection and into my home for the first time, and for that Wie freudig ist mein Herz.

Sublime!.......2007-05-13

Gorgeous phrasing, clear and crisp articulation of the musical intentions and a wonderful unity of ensemble. These are powerful emotional interpretations that will bring you to tears but there is no excessive romantic license taken, only a solid adherence to the rhythmic pulse and directionality of the harmonies. This is what the magic of music is all about with Bach, transforming us from base and despicable creatures into something divine, an alchemical procedure which this ensemble and Hunt-Lieberson perform with absolute mastery and transcendence. A great introduction for anyone who wants to become familiar with Bach's vocal works.

Ich habe genug - I have enough.......2007-02-19

I do not feel qualified to review this item but I find it sublime personally.

Lorraine Hunt Lieberson - Bach Cantatas.......2007-01-11

I first heard Hunt Lieberson only a few months ago, and was immediately moved by her voice and musicianship. These Bach Cantatas display an emotional and spiritual range and intensity that is at times unbearable. Her tragic personal story - she died recently after a struggle with cancer - lends an uncanny quality to the way she sings of suffering, despair and hope. The words never before held such depth. A profound experience.

Beautiful.......2007-01-05

I heard this recording on my public station and had to go and immediately buy it. This is one of the most beautiful recordings I have ever heard. Her voice is magical. I am not even an operatic afficianado and I love this CD.

Bach: Cantatas Vol. 23, Arstadt/Echternach

Average customer rating:

REPETITIOUS
MASS-PRODUCED MIRACLES
The pilgramage continues...

Bach: Cantatas Vol. 23, Arstadt/Echternach

Manufacturer: Soli Deo Gloria
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bach: Cantatas, Vol. 22
Cantatas, Vol. 7
Bach: Cantatas Vol. 15
Bach: Cantatas, Vol. 26: Long Melford
Bach: Cantatas, Vol. 21

ASIN: B000OZ6ZAU
Release Date: 2007-06-12

Tracks:

1.Sinfonia (Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich bwv 150)
2.Coro: Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich
3. Aria: Soprano: Doch bin und bleibe ich vergnugt
4.Coro: Leite mich in deiner Wahrheit
5.Aria (Trio- Alto, Tenor, Bass): Zedern mussen von den Winden
6. Coro: Meine Augen sehen stets zu dem Hern
7. Coro: Meine Tage in den Leiden
1. Coro: Halt im Gedachtnis Jesum Christ (Halt im Gedachtnis Jesum
2.Aria: Tenor : Mein Jesus ist erstanden
3. Recitativo:Alto : Mein Jesu, helbest du des Todes Gift
4. Choral: Esrschienen is der herrlich Tab
5. Recitativo: Alto: Doch scheinet fast
6. Aria: Bass with Chorus: Friede sei mit euch!
7. Choral: Du Friedefurst, Herr Jesu Christ
1. Sinfonia (am Abend aber desselbigen Sabbats BWV 42
2. Recitativo: Tenor: Am Aben aber desselbigen Sabbats
3. Aria: Alto: wo zwei und drei versammlet sind
4. Choral(Duet); soprano, tenor: Verzage nicht, o Haulflein klein
5. Recitativo: Bass: Man kanni hiervon ein schon Exempel sehen
6. Aria: Bass: Jesus ist ein Schild der Seinen
7.Choral: Verleih uns Frieden gnadiglich
1. Recitativo: Bass: Der Friede sei mit dir (Der Friede sei mit dir
2. Aria: Bass with Choral: Welt, ade, ich bin dein mude
3. Recitativo ed Arioso: Bass: Nun, Herr, regiere meinen Sinn
4. Choral Hier is das rechte Osterlamm

Tracks:

1. Coro Du Hirte Israel, hore (Du Hirte Israel, hore BWV 104)
2. Recitativo: Tenor: Der hoschste Hirte sorgt vor mich
3. Aria: Tenor: Verbirgt mein Hirte sich zu lange
4. Recitativo: Bass: ja, dieses Wort is meiner Seelen Speise
5. Aria: Bass: Begluckte Herde, Jesu Schafe
6. Choral: Der Herr is mein getreuer Hirt
1. Aria: Bass Ich bin ein guter Hirt (Ich bin ein guter Hirt BWV 85)
2. Aria: Alto Jesus ist ein guter Hirt
3. Choral: Soprano: Der Herr ist mein getreuer Hirt
4. Recitativo: Tenor: Wenn die Mieltlinge schlafen
5. Aria: Teno;; Seht, was die Liebe tut
6. Choral Ist Gott mein Schutz und treuer Hirt
1. Versus I: Coro; Der Herr is mein getreuer Hirt (Der Herr is mein
2. Versus II: alto Zum reinen Wasser er mich weist
3. Versus III: Bass: und ob ich wandelt im finstern Tal
4. Versus IV: Soprano, Tenor: Du bereitest fur mir einen Tisch
5. Versus V: Choral Gutes und die Barmherzigkeit

Customer Reviews:

REPETITIOUS.......2007-07-09

I know that my reviews to John Elliot Gardiner's "Bach Pilgrimage" are becoming repetitious; however, they do reflect my most positive (so far) reactions to these fine recordings. The recordings, thus far, have been so very splendid that I look forward, with keen anticipation, to each new release. I really had not planned (at an age that is considered to be "senior citizen") to get launched on yet another complete Bach Cantata series (I own others); so much for preconceived resolutions. From the very first release I became "hooked". So here I am looking forward to and enjoying each new release. Volume 23 (the 12th release) is no exception because it is also very splendid indeed! Again JS' music, on this 2 disc release, is glorious with Gardiner and The Monteverdi Chorus and The English Baroque Soloist, playing on "original instruments" performing marvelously.

Volume 23 is filled with some wonderful choruses and with some glorious instrumental writing by J.S. Bach. Listen to the opening chorus of cantata" Halt im Gedachtnis" on the first disc and the first chorus of the cantata "Der Herr ist Mein" on the second disc--glorious! The Sinfonias used at the beginnings of the cantatas of BMW 150 AND 42 are great. The soloist through out the entire recording are great too.

Alto Daniel Taylor is sublime in his very beautiful aria in the first disc from cantata "Am Abend aber disselbigen". On the second disc the tenor soloist wonderfully displays his vocal technique in his arias from the cantatas "Du Hirte Israel" and Ich bin ein gutter". I loved the trio between the alto tenor and bass in the cantata BMW 150.

This 12th release (volume 23)is marvelous because it finds JS at his compositional peak and Gardiner and his forces at their very best!

MASS-PRODUCED MIRACLES.......2007-07-04

Gardiner's series of the Bach cantatas is a sort of pilgrimage. The performers are following JSB around the modest circuit of his own life and career and performing in his honour the masterpieces that he had churned out without fail for the successive Sundays of the Lutheran calendar. Nothing in the entire history of music that I know quite matches this astounding output. Sunday after Sunday he had composed and rehearsed works that would have made other composers illustrious if they had taken years to produce them, works radiant with his unquenchable faith in salvation, works of unmatchable professionalism and finish, and works evincing an infinite musical talent that does more than all his scriptures do for me to suggest the presence of something beyond what the rational mind can comprehend.

There are seven cantatas in this 2-disc set, one (the earliest of all the cantatas) for an unknown feast, three for `Low Sunday' as the Catholic communion knows the Sunday after Easter, and the balance for the following Sunday. In my own experience, they are not among the best-known of the cantatas. Nothing in them has the wide popularity of Jesu Joy or Sheep May Safely Graze; and I suspect that nothing in them enjoys the celebrity among connoisseurs of, say, Schlummert ein from cantata 82 or Wir eilen from cantata 78. I would say to that simply -- just hear this collection a couple of times and you will find yourself enjoying inspiration of an order equal to any of those more celebrated pieces. Gardiner and his colleagues understand fully what they are taking on here - for this composer and these compositions anything less than the very best they can do would be an affront. I have no real fault to find with anything they do here. The direction is insightful and deeply sympathetic, and I like the four vocal soloists without exception. In particular the counter-tenor Daniel Taylor has a pure and unaffected tone that comes as a great relief after one has endured certain other singers of this type. The choir and the instrumentalists are established and accomplished experts, and after I started by regretting that the solo violin at one point did not have the gorgeous tone of his or her counterpart at Erbarme dich in my beloved old Muenchinger set of the St Matthew Passion I came round to the view that in the context of the more severe style adopted here such a tone would have been a concession to my own sentimentality and decadence.

The recordings are from the millennium year 2000, which was also the 250th anniversary of Bach's death. Like their artistic counterparts the technical personnel have demanded the highest standards of themselves, and I found the sound at all points both easy on the ear and suitable to the style and scale of the music. Gardiner himself contributes a lengthy and highly personal essay with a strong emphasis on the reactions that this great music evokes from him as an individual, as well as providing insights into the issues of interpretation that he had to resolve. Such were the circumstances of this musical journey that he was under constant pressure of time. He says modestly that he has not aimed at any definitive set of renderings, and I hope he thinks better of us his music-loving public than to expect us to look for that from him or from anyone in music like this.

The set is attractively packaged as a kind of book, and I would only counsel care in extracting the discs, as this is tricky to do without touching the surfaces. Be careful about that: this is sacred music in more senses than one.

The pilgramage continues..........2007-06-19

Gardiner continues with his Bach cantata pilgramage releasing the 2CD set, Volume 23, containing the following cantatas (with BWV numbering):

BWV 150 Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich

BWV 67 Halt im Gedächtnis Jesum Christ, der auferstanden ist von der Todten

BWV 104 Du Hirte Israel, höre

BWV 112 Der Herr ist mein getreuer Hirt

The following vocal soloists appear on this set: Katharine Fuge (soprano), Gillian Keith (soprano), Daniel Taylor (countertenor), William Towers (countertenor), Charles Daniels (tenor), Norbert Meyn (tenor), Stephen Varcoe (baritone).

Happy pilgramage!

Average customer rating:

Wonderful music, poor quality control.
So, I bought this one...
Forget Suzuki and Koopman, Gardiner is the man!
Two exquisite CDs!!!
A Pinnacle Achievement

Bach Cantatas, Vol. 1: City of London

Manufacturer: Soli Deo Gloria
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bach Cantatas, Vol. 8: Bremen, Santiago
Bach Cantatas, Vol. 10: Potsdam/Wittenberg
Bach Cantatas, Vol. 14: New York
Bach Cantatas, Vol. 24: Altenberg, Warwick
Bach: Cantatas Vol. 15

ASIN: B0006OR17K
Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

I. Aria: Ihr Menschen, Ruhmet Gottes Liebe
II. Recitativo: Gelobet Sei Der Herr Gott Israel
III. Aria (Duetto): Gottes Wort, Das Truget Nicht
IV. Recitativo: Des Weibes Samen Kam
V. Choral: Sei Lob Und Preis Mit Ehren
I. Coro: Christ Unser Herr Zum Jordan Kam
II. Aria: Merkt Und Hort, Ihr Menschenkinder
III. Recitativo: Dies Hat Gott Klar
IV. Aria: Des Vaters Stimme Liess Sich Horen
V. Recitativo: Als Jesus Dort Nach Seinen Leiden
VI. Aria: Alto Menschen, Glaubt Doch Dieser Gnade
VII. Choral: Das Aug Allein Das Wasser Sieht
I. Coro: Freue Dich, Erloste Schar
II. Recitativo: Wir Haben Rast
III. Aria: Gelobet Sei Gott, Gelobet Sein Name
IV. Recitativo: Der Herold Kommt Und Meldt Den Konig An
V. Aria: Kommt, Ihr Angefochtnen Sunder
VI. Choral: Eine Stimme Lasst Sich Horen
VII. Recitativo: So Bist Du Denn, Mein Heil, Bedacht
VIII. Aria: Ich Will Nun Hassen
IX. Recitativo: Und Obwohl Sonst Der Unbestand
X. Aria: Eilt, Ihr Stunden, Kommt Herbei
XI. Recitativo: Geduld, Der Angenehme Tag
XII. Coro: Freue Dich, Geheil'gte Schar

Tracks:

Coro: Die Elenden Sollen Essen
II. Recitativo: Was Hilft Des Purpurs Majestat
III. Aria: Mein Jesus Soll Mein Alles Sein!
IV. Recitativo: Gott Sturzet Und Erhohet
V. Aria: Ich Nehme Mein Leiden Mit Freuden Auf Mich
VI. Recitativo: Indes Schenkt Gott Ein Gut' Geweissen
VII. Choral: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
VIII. Sinfonia
IX. Recitativo: Nur Eines Krankt
X. Aria: Jesus Macht Mich Geistlich Reich
XI. Recitativo: Wer Nur In Jesu Bleibt
XII. Aria Mein Herze Glaubt Und Liebt
XIII. Recitativo: O Armut, Der Kein Reichtum Gleicht!
XIV. Choral: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
I. Coro: Brich Dem Hungrigen Dein Brot
II. Recitativo: Der Reiche Gott Wirft Seinen Uberfluss
III. Aria: Seinem Schopfer Noch Auf Erden
IV. Aria: Wohlzutun Und Mitzuteilen Vergesset Nicht
V. Aria: Hochster, Was Ich Habe
VI. Recitativo: Wie Soll Ich Dir, O Herr
VII. Choral Selig Sind, Die Aus Erbarmen
I. Coro: O Ewigkeit, Du Donnerwort
II. Recitativo: Tenor Kein Ungluck Ist In Aller Welt Zu Finden
III. Aria: Ewigkeit, Du Machst Mir Bange
IV. Recitativo: Gesetzt, Es Dau'rte Der Verdammten Qual
V. Aria: Gott Ist Gerecht In Seinen Werken
VI. Aria: O Mensch, Errette Deine Seele
VII. Choral: Solang Ein Gott Im Himmel Lebt
VIII. Aria: Wacht Auf, Wacht Auf, Verloren Schafe
IX. Recitativo: Verlass, O Mensch, Die Wollust Dieser Welt
X. Aria (Duetto): O Menschenkind
XI. Choral: O Ewigkeit, Du Donnerwort

Amazon.com

This is the first of many volumes recording a Pilgrimage made in 2000, when John Eliot Gardiner, his remarkable instrumentalists and chorus and a team of outstanding soloists performed each Bach Cantata on the feast day for which it was originally composed. Each box will contain 2 CDs, copious notes, and full texts and translations. The fact of the Pilgrimage aside, these performances are simply stunning. Gardiner treats each cantata like a little drama, and his players and singers make certain to dramatize the music and text vividly. When, in Cantata No. 20, the tenor sings of "flames that burn forever," for example, the wildly difficult coloratura and accompanying strings slash with heat. Elsewhere, the listener will bask in Cantata 30's oddly rhythmic alto solo with flute and muted violins. The chorus is excellent throughout, but they dazzle in the 8-minute opening to Cantata 7. The soloists are well-known Bach singers, lieder singers, and performers from the world of opera. Bass Dietrich Henschel and tenor Paul Agnew are, perhaps, the finest of the five, and they have the most to do as well. This is a glorious set of six cantatas, a splendid 2.5 hours of great music-making. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful music, poor quality control........2006-11-29

I have ordered and received two copies of this set, and in both sets the second CD refused to play. I wonder, are others are having this problem?

So, I bought this one..........2006-10-12

(Sorry! I goofed! That should have been FIVE stars!)

..and promptly put down my order for the lot. I already have two sets of cantatas, those by Rilling (the first complete cantatas ever recorded) and the Brilliant label set by Leusink, the former recorded over many years, the latter recorded in a breakneck 15 months. I also have many of the excellent Bach Collegium Japan/Suzuki set for BIS. As you may have gathered, I like the cantatas! However, this promises to be something special. It seems to me that Gardiner's Bach now is fully rounded, as good in the reflective material as in the bright, festive stuff, capturing the soul of Bach's work. In addition, these are the most beautifuly packaged CDs I've seen - little hardback books with the CDs in sleeves at either end and the texts in the middle, along with excerpts from a journal kept by Gardiner on the pilgrimage, with his thoughts on the particular cantatas. And of course Steve McCurry's gorgeous cover photos. Subsequent volumes have lived up to the promise of this one, so I'm making room on the shelves for a lot more. In my opinion, the only serious competition that this set has is Suzuki. If only I had enough money... Highly recommended.

Forget Suzuki and Koopman, Gardiner is the man!.......2006-04-28

There are currently three Bach Cantata series underway. Sir John Elliott Gardiner is the most recent additon to a field that already contains Suzuki/Bach Collegium Japan on BIS and Koopman/Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra on Challenge. Gardiner undertook recording the complete Catata's on the Sunday's for which they were composed in 2000. The first results released is this Grammophone Award Winner. This is the most spiritual Bach on record.

Two exquisite CDs!!!.......2006-03-18

Listen the Coro of BWV39 (Brich dem Hungrigen dein Brot), it is the most beautiful and delicated interpretation I ever heard!!! Or the aria duet and first bass aria in bwv20 Or the entire cantatas 167, 7, 30 or .... well. Listen all!! All the interpretations in these two CDs are perfect and lovely made!!!
Long life to Bach!!!!

A Pinnacle Achievement.......2006-02-16

John Eliot Gardner's Project - performing all of the myriad Bach cantatas on the Feast Days for which they were composed - is a daunting effort and one that may seem a bit on the Hollywood side of commercialism were it not for the quality of the finished concept.

These performances of Cantatas No. 7, 20, 30, 39, 75 and 167 are beautifully performed by the English Baroque Soloists (instrumentalists and chorus) with Wilke te Brummelstroete , Dietrich Henschel , Gillian Keith , Paul Agnew, and Joann Lund as the extraordinary soloists.

Gardiner finds the right tempi, flavor, and drama of each of these cantatas, emphasizing the style of performance from Bach's time. The results are top-notch, technically superb, elegantly performed works that stand with the best of the recorded versions. The Sonics of the recordings are excellent and the 'packaging' includes translations and informative, if somewhat exhaustive, notes on the derivation and history of each of the cantatas. This is Volume 1 and to be sure it will encourage the listener to purchase the entire set. Recommended. Grady Harp, February 06

Magdalena Kozená ~ Handel Italian Cantatas / Les Musiciens du Louvre, Minkowski

Average customer rating:

Two out of three
Mannered Singing
A delightful album!
Magdalena Kozena
People I cannot stress too many times...

Magdalena Kozená ~ Handel Italian Cantatas / Les Musiciens du Louvre, Minkowski
George Frideric Handel , Magdalena Kozená , Marc Minkowski , and Les Musiciens du Louvre
Manufacturer: Archiv Produktion
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Lamento
Enchantment
Magdalena Kozená - Le belle immagini (Mozart, Gluck, Myslivecek)
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ASIN: B00004YZ35
Release Date: 2001-01-09

Tracks:

Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Intro
Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Recitativo: Da Quel Giorno Fatale
Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Aria: Un Pensiero Voli In Ciel
Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Recitativo: Ma Fermati Pensier
Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Aria: Per Te Lasciai La Luce
Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Recitativo: Non Ti Bastava, Ingrato
Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Aria: Lascia Omai Le Brune Vele/Recitativo: Ma Siamo Giunti In Lete
Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Entree
Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Arietta E Recitativo: In Queste Amene Piagge Serene (Minuet)/Si, Disse...
La Lucrezia, HWV 145: Recitativo: O Numi Eterni!
La Lucrezia, HWV 145: Aria: Gia Superbo Del Mio Affanno
La Lucrezia, HWV 145: Recitativo: Ma Voi Forse Nel Cielo
La Lucrezia, HWV 145: Aria: Il Suol Che Preme
La Lucrezia, HWV 145: Recitativo: Ah! Che Ancor Nell'abisso/Furioso: Questi La Disperata Anima Mia
La Lucrezia, HWV 145: Aria: Alla Salma Infedel Porga La Pena
La Lucrezia, HWV 145: Recitativo: A Voi, A Voi, Padre, Consorte
La Lucrezia, HWV 145: Arioso: Gia Nel Seno Comincia A Compir/Furioso: Ma Se Qui Non M'e Dato
Tra Le Fiamme, HWV 170: Aria: Tra Le Fiamme Tu Scherz/Recitativo: Dedalo Gia Le Fortunate Penne - Magdalena Kozena
Tra Le Fiamme, HWV 170: Aria: Pien Di Nuovo E Bel Diletto/Recitivo: Si, Si Pur Troppo E Vero - Magdalena Kozena
Tra Le Fiamme, HWV 170: Aria: Voli Per L'aria Chi Puo Volare/Recitativo: L'uomo, Che Nacque Per... - Magdalena Kozena
Tra Le Fiamme, HWV 170: Da Capo: Tra Le Fiamme Tu Scherzi - Magdalena Kozena

Amazon.com

Only a few years since emerging as a notable singer, mezzo-soprano Magdalena Kozená hasn't stopped enchanting her audience. It is, after all, a rare pleasure to experience this unique voice with its warm and elegant timbre. Some of its aspects are apparent in her preceding recital, an unusual--and unusually beautiful--program of Czech love songs. With this account of Handel's Italian Cantatas, Kozená confirms the immense scope of her gifts. Better yet, her voice is once more "affirmed": it seems fresher, conveying even more emotion. Marc Minkowski and his Musiciens du Louvre are hardly to be overlooked in this absolute success. They understand in their bones the kind of scarcely veiled energy that's fitting for the music of Handel. --Pierre Guillaume

Customer Reviews:

Two out of three.......2005-05-29

Magdalena Kozena is a current favorite of the classical vocal recording scene, no small feat, with an extensive discography focusing mainly on early and Czech music. There are many pleasures to be had from this recording of three of Handel's Italian solo cantatas. Les Musiciens du Louvre is a superb Baroque ensemble, and its director, Marc Minkowski, has opted for a considerable variety of sound in the continuo that livens the recitatives in particular.

When she is not pressed by the frequently extremely quick tempi or going for too much dramatic weight in the recitatives, Kozena sings with fresh, pleasing tone and considerable fluency in the frequently intricate coloratura passages. Overall two of the cantatas, "Delirio amoroso" and "Tra le fiamme," come off well. The third, "La Lucrezia," of greater emotional range and vocally the most demanding, finds both Kozena and Minkowski going all-out for drama. Kozena's voice is simply not up to the demands she makes on it here, with consequent white, off-pitch and frequently plain unpleasant results. Whether the intended interpretation was her idea, Minkowski's, or a collaboration, it is ill-judged in terms of her particular strengths, and consequently a major blot on an otherwise good recording.

Mannered Singing.......2004-08-05

This is a somewhat disappointing recording. The cantatas are interesting, though not Handel in his full glory. The orchestral work is very good. The major problem is Kozena's singing. Despite her lovely voice, much of the vocal work in these pieces sounds artificial and even strained at times. I don't know if this is an effort to duplicate 18th century performance practices or simply to lend a dramatic flavor to the work. Regardless, it doesn't seem to work very well. This is surprising because Kozena's other recordings have shown that she is excellent singer with good artistic judgement.

A delightful album!.......2004-06-19

I was introduced to Magdalena Kozená's voice through her very nice "Bach Arias" album a couple of years ago. Then, shortly afterwards a good friend of mine told me how wonderful this Handel album also was!

One day, I was riding in a friend's car. He had brought this album solely for me to listen and played track #3 ("Delirio Amoroso, HWV 99: Aria: Un Pensiero Voli In Ciel"). I was instantly convinced!

This whole CD is delightful, a sheer joy! Whenever I try to convince anyone of it's beauty I simply play track #3. It's funny but it always works!!!

Give track #3 a try!...

Magdalena Kozena.......2002-04-20

Magdalena Kozena,
When Magdalena was 11 years old, her father bought her a violin once owned by Handel himself. She was however much more interested in the works of the romantics. She studied the repetoire of Dvorak, Brahms, and Schubert but neglected her studies in the Baroque. She had great sucess but found herself unsatisfied. That is when she re-discovered Handel. In a depressed state after a Brahms leider recital, she locked herself in her childhood bedroom and wept.That's when she found that dusty old violin her father had given her so many years before. Completely naked, tears streaming down her cheeks, she picked it up and began to play the Handel Italian Cantatas. What came out could only be described as miraculous.
She knew that she was truley inspired and was on the verge of creating a sensational rendition of the Handel Italian Cantatas. She called Marc Minowskli and had him over to her place to witness her performance of the Handel Italian Cantatas. She cooked Veal and potatas.The rest is history. A wonderful CD.

People I cannot stress too many times..........2002-02-22

... the importance of making sure the CD you review matches the one you are listening to. The one in question is by MAGDALENA KOZENA and Marc Minkowski. It will win all the usual awards from Gramophone, BBC Music, Fanfare, etc. and it will of course deserve them. It is not as great as Janet Baker's Lucrezia, nor is Renee Fleming Lotte Lehmann or Roberto Alagna Leopold Simoneau. The best modern recording is what we're after and you cannot go wrong here or with the somewhat harder to find Veronique Gens on Virgin Veritas. A matter of taste between the two, I personally would own both even at full price but the edge to Gens although I find Minkowski's ensemble the more exciting. And exciting is what this music is -- full throttle, red blooded drama that needs all-out vocal performances which are what you'll find here. Kozena a folk singer? Yeah, and I'm Lennox Lewis!

Average customer rating:

PER USUAL

Cantatas, Vol. 7

Manufacturer: Soli Deo Gloria
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bach: Cantatas Vol. 15
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Bach Cantatas, Vol. 10: Potsdam/Wittenberg
Bach Cantatas Vol. 19: Greenwich/Romsey

ASIN: B000ICLTZK
Release Date: 2006-10-10

Tracks:

Coro Con Choral Es Ist Nichts Gesundes An Meinem Leibe
Recitativo: Tenor Die Ganze Welt Ist Nur Ein Hospital
Aria: Bass Ach, Wo Hol Ich Armer Rat?
Recitativo: Sopran O Jesu, Lieber Meister
Aria: Sopran Offne Meinem Schlechten Liedern
Choral Ich Will Alle Meine Tage
Coro (Choral) Jesu, Der Du Meine Seele
Aria (Duetto): Sopran, Alt Wir Eilen Mit Schwachen
Recitativo: Tenor Ach! Ich Bin Ein Kind Der Sunden
Aria: Tenor Dein Blut, So Meine Schuld Durchstreicht
Recitativo: Bass Die Wunden, Nagel, Kron Und Grab
Aria: Bass Nun Du Wirst Mein Gewissen Stillen
Choral Herr, Ich Glaube, Hilf Mir Schwachem
Coro Wer Dank Opfert, Der Preiset Mich
Recitativo: Alt Es Muss Die Ganze Welt Ein Stummer Zeuge Werden
Aria: Sopran Herr, Deine Gute Reicht
Recitativo: Tenor Einer Aber Unter Ihnen
Aria: Tenor Welch Ubermass Der Gute
Recitativo: Bass Sieh Meinen Willen An
Choral Wie Sich Ein Vat'r Erbarmet

Tracks:

Coro Nun Ist Das Heil Und Die Kraft
Coro (Choral) Herr Gott, Dich Loben Alle Wir
Recitativo: Alt Ihr Heller Glanz Und Hohe Weisheit Zeigt
Aria: Bass Der Alte Drache Brennt Vor Neid
Recitativo (Duetto): Sopran, Tenor Wohl Aber Uns, Daas Tag Und Nacht
Aria: Tenor Lass, O Furst Der Cherubinen
Choral Darum Wir Billig Loben Dich
Coro Es Erhub Sich Ein Streit
Recitativo: Bass Gottlob! Der Drache Liegt
Aria: Sopran Gott Schickt Uns Mahanaim Zu
Recitativo: Tenor Was Ist Der Schnode Mensch, Das Erdenkind?
Aria Con Choral: Tenor Bleibt, Ihr Engel, Bleibt Bei Mir!
Recitativo: Sopran Lasst Uns Das Angesicht
Choral Lass Dein' Engel Mit Mir Fahren
Coro Man Singet Mit Freuden Vom Sieg
Aria: Bass Kraft Und Starke Sei Gesungen
Recitativo: Alt Ich Furchte Mich Vor Tausend Feinden Nicht
Aria: Sopran Gottes Engel Weichen Nie
Recitativo: Tenor Ich Danke Dir
Aria (Duetto): Alt, Tenor Seid Wachsam, Ihr Heiligen Wachter
Choral Ach Herr, Lass Dein Lieb Engelein

Customer Reviews:

PER USUAL .......2006-11-27

This ninth release (volume 7) of JS Bach's Cantatas performed by the Monteverdi Choir, the English Baroque Soloist and directed by John Eliot Gardiner is filled with Cantatas that are supplicant (especially on the first disc) and filled with praise and adoration (especially on the second disc). These cantatas are filled with Trumpet fanfares and drums and they are very uplifting especially as performed by the aforesaid forces.

Per usual, the works in Volume Seven are performed by Gardiner and his forces magnificently! Listen to the opening chorus of BWV 78 on the first disc and the Choral "Ach Herr, lass deir lieb" on the second disc--glorious! The orchestra and chorus are wonderful. Again, I was very much impressed with the soloist too.

Malin Hartelius, soprano, posses a sweet clear and very flexible voice. Listen to her aria on the second disc, tract 18. She is also great in the rather familiar duet with alto "Wir elin mit schwachen" tract 8, first disc. Tenor, James Gilchrist, once again is most impressive. He displays a wonderful legato in his aria in the first disc tract 10 and his virtuosity is astounding in tract 6 of the second disc. Bass Peter Harvey sings with a full, rich and flexible voice. His aria on tract 16 of the second disc is most impressive.

In conclusion, Volume Seven is a most impressive release. I continue my adoration of Gardiner's "Bach Pilgrimage" and I DO look forward to future releases.

Average customer rating:

BEST CANTATA 51 SO FAR
Cantatas on Set by BWV # and name.
GLORIOUS BACH CONTINUES
Volume 8

Bach Cantatas, Vol. 8: Bremen, Santiago

Manufacturer: Soli Deo Gloria
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Cantatas, Vol. 7

ASIN: B0006OR17U
Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

I. Coro E Recitativo: Warum Betrubst Du Dich, Mein Herz?
II. Recitativo: Bass Ich Bin Veracht'
III. Choral E Recitativo: Er Kann Und Will Dich Lassen Nicht
IV. Recitativo: Ach, Susser Trost!
V. Aria: Auf Gott Steht Meine Zuversicht
VI. Recitativo: Ei Nun!
VII. Choral: Weil Du Mein Gott Und Vater Bist
I. Coro: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
II. Recitativo: Sein Wort Der Wahrheit Stehet Fest
III. Aria: Erschuttre Dich Nur Nicht, Verzagte Seele
IV. Recitativo: Nun, Der Von Ewigkeit Geschlossne Bund
V. Aria (Duetto): Wenn Des Kreuzes Bitterkeiten
VI. Choral: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
I. Aria: Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen!
II. Recitativo: Wir Beten Zu Dem Tempel An
III. Aria: Hochster, Mache Deine Gute
IV. Choral: Sei Lob Und Preis Mit Ehren
V. Aria: Alleluja!
I. Coro: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
II. Duetto: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
III. Aria: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
IV. Aria: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
V. Aria: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
VI. Choral: Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan

Tracks:

I. Aria: Komm, Du Susse Todesstunde
II. Recitativo: Welt, Deine Lust Ist Last
III. Aria: Mein Verlangen
IV. Recitativo: Der Schluss Ist Schon Gemacht
V. Coro: Wenn Es Meines Gottes Wille
VI. Choral: Der Leib Zwar In Der Erden
I. Coro E Recitativo: Wer Weiss, Wie Nahe Mir Mein Ende?
II. Recitativo: Mein Leben Hat Kein Ander Ziel
III. Aria: Willkommen! Will Ich Sagen
IV. Recitativo: Ach, Wer Doch Schon Im Himmel War!
V. Aria: Gute Nacht, Du Weltgetummel!
VI. Choral: Welt, Ade! Ich Bin Dein Mude
I. Coro: Liebster Gott, Wenn Werd Ich Sterben?
II. Aria: Was Willst Du Dich, Mein Geist, Entsetzen
III. Recitativo: Zwar Fuhlt Mein Schwaches Herz
IV. Aria: Doch Weichet, Ihr Tollen, Vergeblichen Sorgen!
V. Recitativo: Behalte Nur, O Welt, Das Meine!
VI. Choral: Herrscher Uber Tod Und Leben
I. Coro E Recitativo: Christus, Der Ist Mein Leben
II. Recitativo: Nun, Falsche Welt!
III. Choral: Valet Will Ich Dir Geben
IV. Recitativo: Ach, Konnte Mir Doch Bald So Wohl Geschehn
V. Aria: Tenor Ach, Schlage Doch Bald, Sel'ge Stunde
VI. Recitativo: Bass Denn Ich Weiss Dies
VII. Choral: Weil Du Vom Tod Erstanden Bist

Customer Reviews:

BEST CANTATA 51 SO FAR.......2006-09-30

Malin Hartelius is not as famous as she should be. In a culture that rates singers more by power, singers with exceptional technique and expressive capabilities tend to have a slower acceptance. I discovered her on DVD where she displays acting ability that is also exceptional.
Trumpeter Niklas Eklund in the first and final movements of Cantata 51 is equally great.

Gardiner has a unique ability to choose just the right soloists for all his recordings. This 2000 pilgrimage is no exception. I am a choral singer of the amateur type and use his recordings as a reference for style, as well as enjoyment. Being picked for Cantata 51 is possibly one the best endorsements Hartelius can get.

The singing in all the cantatas on this two CD set is top notch.

I have never before been a fan of the male alto or countertenor voice but this CD and the Alles Mit Gott CD from Gardiner changed my thinking instantly.

The sound quality is superb, especially considering the time constraints the singers and engineers had to work with, in new venues every week. This is quite possibly the most important recording project of all time. The cost of buying the whole series is beyond my means, but I certainly will continue to pick up a few more here and there.

Cantatas on Set by BWV # and name........2005-12-11

This is not really a review but a helpful tool for potential buyers. Listed below are the BWV numbers as well as names of the cantatas contained on this set (since amazon.com only lists by name and not the necessary BWV#).

It is hard to be disappointed by Gardiner's craftsmanship. While some think his tempi on some cantatas to be distasteful, it provides a different approach than other conductors and Bach fellows.

Cantatas on this set:

Liebster Gott, wenn werd' ich sterben?, BWV 8

Wer weiss, wie nahe mir mein Ende, BWV 27

Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen, BWV 51 (SIDE NOTE: Reviewer's All-time favourite Bach Cantata)

Christus, der ist mein Leben, BWV 95

Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan, BWV 99

Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan, BWV 100

Warum betrübst du dich, mein Herz?, BWV 138

Komm, du süsse Todesstunde, BWV 161

What's your favourite Bach cantata?

GLORIOUS BACH CONTINUES.......2005-11-22

This compilation of the Cantatas by J.S. Bach is the second installment of Gardiner's pilgrimage of Bach's Cantatas although in actuality it's numbered Volume 8. As I stated in my review of Volume One of this pilgrimage, I'm enthralled in every way with these recordings. Although, I have a dislike of the countertenor voice, the ones used in this recording are marvelous and easy on the ear. (You "authentic performance" militia can prosecute me. But I DON'T usually enjoy the countertenor voice.) Fortunately (for me), treble unchanged boy's voices are NOT used and the soprano(s) that are used are wonderful delivering their solos beautifully. In fact the featured soloists are all wonderful as is the chorus and orchestra. Gardiner is simply stupendous in his leadership of these works.
Although I've vowed not to get launched on yet another Bach Cantata series, I'm afraid that I'm so besotted by these Gardiner's recordings of Bach's Cantatas that I am indeed launched once again. This series continues to delight in every way!

Volume 8.......2005-10-21

This is actually volume 8 of Gardiner's series of recordings of all of Bach's church cantata's made between Christmas, 1999 and Christmas, 2000. The current Amazon title for the CD doesn't make that clear.

The recording speaks for itself.

Vivaldi - Gloria · Nulla in mundo pax sincera · Nisi Dominus · Cantatas / Kirkby · Bott · Nelson · Watkinson · Bowman · Preston · AAM · Hogwood

Average customer rating:

Good points far outweigh some minor deficiencies
More of Emma Please
amazingly beautiful
Glorious cantatas on the second CD
a "must have"

Vivaldi - Gloria · Nulla in mundo pax sincera · Nisi Dominus · Cantatas / Kirkby · Bott · Nelson · Watkinson · Bowman · Preston · AAM · Hogwood
Antonio Vivaldi , Christopher Hogwood , Emma Kirkby , Catherine Bott , The Academy of Ancient Music , Oxford Christ Church Cathedral Choir , James Bowman , Simon Preston , Simon Standage , Catherine Mackintosh , New London Consort , and Judith Nelson
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bach: Magnificat, BWV. 243; Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen
Emma Kirkby sings Handel, Arne, Haydn & Mozart
Vivaldi: The Great Choral Masterpieces

ASIN: B0000042HT
Release Date: 1997-10-14

Tracks:

Gloria In D Major, RV 589: I Gloria in excelsis Deo
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: II Et in terra pax
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: III Gloria in D Major, RV 589 III Laudamus te (2 sopranos)
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: IV Gloria in D Major, RV 589 IV Gratias agnimus tibi
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: V Gloria in D Major, RV 589 V Propter magnam gloriam
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: VI Gloria in D Major, RV 589 VI Domaine Deis (soprano)
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: VII Gloria in D Major, RV 589 VII Domaine Fili unigenite
VIII Gloria In D Major, RV 589 VIII Domaine Deus, Agnus Dei (contralto, chorus)
IX Gloria in D Major, RV 589 IX Qui tollis peccata munid
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: X Gloria in D Major, RV 589 X Qui sedes (contralto)
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: XI Gloria In D Major, RV 589 XI Quoniam tu solus Sanctus
Gloria In D Major, RV 589: XII Gloria in D Major, RV 589 XII Cum Sancto Spiritu
Nisi Dominus, RV 608: Nisi Dominus
Nisi Dominus, RV 608: Nisi Dominus, RV 608 II Vanurm est vobis, III Surgite postquam sederitis
Nisi Dominus, RV 608: Nisi Dominus, RV 608 IV Cum dederit dilectus suis somnum
Nisi Dominus, RV 608: Nisi Dominus, RV 608 V Sicut sagittae in manu potentis
Nisi Dominus, RV 608: Nisi Dominus, RV 608 VI Beatus vir qui implevit
Nisi Dominus, RV 608: Nisi Dominus, RV 608 VII Gloria Patri et Filio, VIII Sicut erat in principio, IX Amen
Nulla in mundo pax sincera, RV 630: I Nulla in mundo pax sincera
Nulla in mundo pax sincera, RV 630: Blando colore ... Spirat anguis
Nulla in mundo pax sincera, RV 630 III: Alleluia

Tracks:

Amor, hai vinto, RV 651: I Amor, hai vinto ... Passo di pena
Amor, hai vinto, RV 651: II In qual strano ... Se a me rivolge
Trio sonata 'La folia', RV 63
All'ombra di sospetto, RV 678: All'ombra di sospetto
All'ombra di sospetto, RV 678: O quanti amanti
Lungi dal bago volto, RV 680: Lungi del vago volto
Lungi dal bago volto, RV 680: Allegrezza mio core
Vengo a voi, luci adorate, RV 682: Vengo a voi, luci adorate
Vengo a voi, luci adorate, RV 682: Portando in sen l'ardor

Customer Reviews:

Good points far outweigh some minor deficiencies.......2005-11-29

This whole set is gorgeous (although the second cd gets a bit tediuos unless you really like early music), and Emma Kirkby has one the most beautiful, distinctive soprano voices I have ever heard, one can't help but like her, but hard-core critics beware, her intonation is not flawless, especially in the "Alleluia" of the "Nulla in Mundo" cycle, one can hear her go off on some of the high notes. Like I said, it's beautiful, but that does bother me personally every time I listen to that track. But buy it anyway.

More of Emma Please.......2004-01-02

I would have given this CD 5 stars if Emma Kirkby had sung all of the cantatas on Disc 2. Unfortunately, most of the cantatas on this disc are sung by Catherine Bott, who in my musically illiterate opinion, sounds more like a mezzo-soprano than a true soprano. Kirkby on the other hand is a legend in early music and brings her trademark "purity of sound" to this recording. The gorgeous duet she sings with Judith Nelson on disc 1 is alone worth the price of this set (that's probably a slight exaggeration, but it's pretty damn good anyway).

Getting away from Kirkby a sec, the Gloria on CD 1 is indeed glorious. The choral movements are sharp and lively, having that quality of all good choirs of sounding not quite of this earth. Listening to this CD after a couple of beers, you could be forgiven for thinking that your house has been invaded by cherubim and seraphim.

I'm not a huge fan of counter tenors (probably something to do with feeling threatened about my latent homosexuality or being emasculated) so I can't really provide any worthwhile comments about the Nisi Dominus which is a showcase of James Bowman's skills. Bowman has pretty impressive credentials, so I'm not about to get stuck into him. Suffice to say, I usually skip thru tracks 13-18 on disc 1.

amazingly beautiful.......2003-04-27

This CD is worth buying just for "Nulla in mundo pax sincera." This is one of the most beautiful vivaldi motets and is simply heavenly. I absoluterly love it!

Glorious cantatas on the second CD.......2002-06-14

For once the 5 stars are worth it. The choral works on disc 1 are masterful benchmark interpretations of the pick of Vivaldi's sacred output. What makes it a real bargain however is the second disc of cantatas - one of Emma Kirkby and Catherine Bott's finest achievements on the old L'Oiseau Lyre label. Couple this with full texts and an intelligent booklet. Wonderful!

a "must have".......2002-05-11

This is the ONLY version of "Gloria" you should own! The Choir of Christ Church is amazing and truly does justice to Vivaldi's work.

Average customer rating:

Jaroussky has a gifted voice
a voice teacher and early music fan
Jaroussky is exceptional
A pleasant surprise
Another Fine Countertenor Lights Up The World!

Vivaldi: Virtuoso Cantatas
Philippe Jaroussky , Unspecified , Antonio Vivaldi , Ensemble Artaserse , and Claire Antonini
Manufacturer: Virgin Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0006IQM4O
Release Date: 2005-04-12

Tracks:

Aria: Alla Caccia Dell'alme E De' Cori
Recitativo: Ma Sia Crudele O Infida
Aria: Preso Sei Mio Cor Piagato
Recitativo: Qual Per Ignoto Calle
Aria: Quel Passagier Son Io
Recitativo: Deh, Piu Non Regni Nel Tuo Gentil Petto
Aria: Qual Dopo Lampi E Turbini
Piangero Sinche L'onda - Ruggiero
Prelude After Vivaldi (Theorbo Solo)
Aria: Care Selve, Amici Prati
Recitativo: Ben Mal'accorto E Folle All'or Io Fui
Aria: Placido In Letto Ombroso
Largo
Allegro
Largo
Allegro
Recitativo: Perfidissimo Cor! Iniquo Fato!
Aria: Nel Torbido Mio Petto
Recitativo: Cosi Dunque Tradisci Chi Contenta
Aria: Piu Amar Non Spero, No
Di Verde Ulivo - Vitellia
Recitativo: Pianti, Sospiri E Dimandar Mercede
Aria: Lusinga E Del Nocchier
Recitativo: O Ingannato Nocchiero
Aria: Cor Ingrato Dispietato

Customer Reviews:

Jaroussky has a gifted voice.......2006-06-21

In early polyphony, the contratenor was a voice part in melodic counterpoint against the tenor. It was written roughly in the same range as the tenor. In the 15th century, contratenor split into contratenor altus and contratenor bassus, which were respectively above and below the tenor. By the 16th century, however, the term became obsolete as Latin lost popularity. In Italy, the contratenor altus became simply alto; in France, haute-contre; in England, countertenor.

Countertenors remained in the niche of sacred vocal music, in part because women were banned from singing in church services. However, they were not prominently featured in the rise of opera. Handel would occasionally write a part specifically for a countertenor, but the castrati were vastly more popular. As a result, the countertenor voice was found only in cathedral choirs and the occasional early music ensemble for a few centuries.

The most visible icon of the countertenor revival was Alfred Deller, an English singer and champion of authentic early music performance. Deller initially called himself an "alto", but his collaborator Michael Tippett recommended the archaic term "countertenor" to describe his voice. In the 1950s and 60s, his group, the Deller Consort, increased audiences' awareness of (and appreciation for) renaissance and Baroque music. Benjamin Britten wrote the role of Oberon in his setting of A Midsummer Night's Dream for him. Deller was the first modern countertenor to achieve such celebrity, but he would not be the last. Russell Oberlin was Deller's American counterpart, and another early music pioneer. Oberlin's success was entirely unprecedented in a country that had seen little exposure to anything before Bach, and it paved the way for the next generation of countertenors.

Today, countertenors are much in demand in many forms of classical music. In opera, many roles originally written for castrati are now sung by countertenors, as are some trouser roles. Modern composers write countertenor parts, both in choral works and opera. Men's choral groups such as Chanticleer and the King's Singers employ them to great effect in a variety of genres, including early music, gospel, and even folk songs.
A few countertenors have a range comparable to a female soprano. They are usually called sopranists, and often sing higher castrato arias. As there are not many of them, Jaroussky is the latest countertenor and should the word "gifted" for him suits his special talent, this CD deserves a 4 star.

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2006-05-20

The vocal selections on this disc include 2 arias from Vivaldi operas. However, at that time the cantatas and the operas were very closely aligned using the same instrumentation and truthfully it would be difficult to tell the difference between them had I not been previously informed. Jaroussky has excellent vocal technique;in fact in some passages he astounds the listener. His aria :Cor ingrato dispietato (from an opera) displays amazing breath control and clean clear notes. If there is something lacking it is in slow passages that demand more intensity and emotion; age and experience will certainly help!!!And his voice sounds better when the music has a high tessitura. He's a fresh new voice in the world of countertenors. My appreciation knows no bounds for the "Ensemble Artaserse";they are truly excellent and skilled on their instruments; wonderful to hear. This is really a great disc!!!!

Jaroussky is exceptional.......2005-09-07

Jaroussky's singing adds to the growing interest in Vivaldian opera. His performance of "Qual Dopo ..." is both a demonstration of the great technique and artistry of his beautiful voice. For those curious to explore his singing range, try his masterful deliverance of arias such as "Tu m'offendi",from La Verita en Cimento, and "Sol da te", from "Orlando Furioso" where he honors the composer with the nuances, adornments, and melodic draws of his voice. This CD would have showcased the cantata genre much better had the musical selection been more diverse in note and tempo. Nonetheless, Jaroussky is at his best!

A pleasant surprise.......2005-05-20

Countertenor is not this reviewer's favorite range of male singer. That's probably so because it is both unfamiliar and underperformed and, when it is sung, never comes off as quite natural to the singer himself. In many respects, it really is an outdated male vocal range that should have gone the way of castrati. Interestingly, it seems to going in just the opposite direction. At least Virgin Classics must think so because last month it released a new CD by countertenor Philippe Jaroussky singing Vivaldi Cantatas, with the Ensemble Artaserse -- and it is surprisingly good. The CD consists of a couple quite beautiful period solo ensemble selections, theorbo etc. (See cut #9 "Prelude to Vivaldi") and vocals that demonstrate the best of what a countertenor sounds like, most notably Piangero Sinche L'onda, Ruggiero. Mr. Jaroussky's voice is both agile and open and his diction is punctuated and enhanced by a smooth delivery that is passionate enough, such that each piece comes off as a personal story that truly captivates the listener. An added plus is the fact that the thematic organization of this CD is even. In other words, you won't be reaching for the "skip" button here. The quality of the recording, too, is excellent. Although many listeners prefer the live aspect of concert performances, the very thing that attracts, can also produce a hollow, almost metallic sound in a live hall. In Cantatas, you won't find any unevenness or harsh selections. You might even find that you are pleasantly surprised by how intriguing it is.

Another Fine Countertenor Lights Up The World!.......2005-04-13

This exciting recording of Vivaldi cantatas for solo voice and instrumental ensemble is one of the more compelling releases of the year to date! While the music of the glorious Venetian Antonio Vivaldi is well known, especially the standard repertoire `The Four Seasons' and the choral works and chamber works - even some operas - the cantatas are rarely performed and this CD of his best ones should change that.

Philippe Jaroussky is yet another fine countertenor who is rather recent on the scene. With the growing popularity of musicians courageous and gifted enough to become successful in the countertenor repertoire (just pause for a moment and think of the significant number a star quality countertenors on the stages today), the numerous pieces for this range of voice continue to appear. Vivaldi's cantatas are refined, beautifully embellished, demanding consummate artistry of not only the high hurdles for the voice but also for the accompanying forces. Jaroussky seems to have endless breath, singing the long extended lines with total ease. His embellishments alter with each da capo as to the period born! This is a voice a great power and warmth and one that feels married to the texts.

Providing brilliant collaboration is the Ensemble Artaserse and period instruments. The variety of color is awe-inspiring and the technique of these unique musicians is impeccable. In their solo portions they produce a richly elegant - yes, Venetian sound. And in tandem with Jaroussky the complete effect is one of single purpose, line, and harmony.

This is a new CD to treasure and the sampling is generous. For this reviewer this is a new repertoire to explore and it would be difficult to imagine forces better suited to these treasures than those on this CD. Highly recommended. Grady Harp, April 05

Average customer rating:

I'M BACK!!
Continues the high standard for the series

Bach: Cantatas, Vol. 22

Manufacturer: Soli Deo Gloria
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000N39HP8
Release Date: 2007-04-10

Tracks:

1. Sinfonia
2. Versus I: Coro-Christ Lag In Todesbanden
3. Versus II: Sopran, Alt-Den Tod Niemand Zwingen Kunnt
4. Versus III: Tenor-Jesus Christus, Gottes Sohn
5. Versus IV: Coro-Es War Ein Wunderlicher Krieg
6. Versus V: Bass-Hier Ist Das Rechte Osterlamm
7. Versus VI: Sopran, Tenor-So Feiern Wir Das Hohe Fest
8. Versus VII: Choral-Wir Essen Und Leben Wohl
1. Sonata
2. Coro-Der Himmel Lacht! Die Erde Jubilieret
3. Recitativo: Bass-Erwunschter Tag! Sei, Seele, Wieder Froh!
4. Aria: Bass-Furst Des Lebens, Starker Streiter
5. Recitativo: Tenor-So Stehe Dann, Du Gottergebne Seele
6. Aria: Tenor-Adam Muss In Uns Verwesen
7. Recitativo: Sopran-Weil Dann Das Haupt Sein Glied
8. Aria Con Choral: Sopran-Letzte Stunde, Brich Herein
9. Choral-So Fahr Ich Hin Zu Jesu Christ
1. Coro-Erfreut Euch, Ihr Herzen
2. Recitativo: Bass-Es Bricht Das Grab Und Damit Unsre Not
3. Aria: Bass-Lasset Dem Hochsten Ein Danklied Erschallen
4. Recitativo (Dialogo) Ed Arioso (Duetto): Tenor, Alt-Bei Jesu Leben Freudig Sein
5. Aria (Duetto): Alt, Tenor-Ich Furchte Zwar Des Grabes Finsternissen
6. Choral-Halleluja! Halleluja! Halleluja!

Tracks:

1. Coro-Bleib Bei Uns, Denn Es Will Abend Werden
2. Aria: Alt-Hochgelobter Gottessohn
3. Choral: Sopran-Ach Bleib Bei Uns, Herr Jesu Christ
4. Recitativo: Bass-Es Hat Die Dunkelheit
5. Aria: Tenor-Jesu, Lass Uns Auf Dich Sehen
6. Choral-Beweis Dein Macht, Herr Jesu Christ
1. Recitativo: Tenor, Alt-Ein Herz, Das Seinen Jesum Lebend Weiss
2. Aria: Tenor-Auf, Glaubige, Singet Die Lieblichen Lieder
3. Recitativo: Tenor, Alt-Wohl Dir, Gott Hat An Dich Gedacht
4. Aria (Duetto): Alt, Tenor-Wir Danken Und Preisen Dein Brunstiges Lieben
5. Recitativo: Tenor, Alt-Doch Wurke Selbst Den Dank In Unserm Munde
6. Coro-Erschallet, Ihr Himmel, Erfreue Dich, Erde
1. Aria (Duetto): Tenor, Sopran-Ich Lebe, Mein Herze, Zu Deinem Ergotzen
2. Recitativo: Tenor-Nun Fordre, Moses, Wie Du Willt
3. Aria: Bass-Merke, Mein Herze, Bestandig Nur Dies
4. Recitativo: Sopran-Mein Jesus Lebt
5. Choral-Drum Wir Auch Billig Frohlich Sein

Customer Reviews:

I'M BACK!!.......2007-06-05

Here I am again trying to praise to the highest degree yet another installment of the John Elliot Gardiner's "Bach Pilgrimage" that is being evidenced by these recordings of the Cantatas at different locales through out the world in the year 2000. (My understanding is that the Cantatas eventually are to be released, on CD, in their entirety by Gardiner and his forces or, at least, all of the ones now known to exist). This 11th release was recorded "live" at St. George's church, Eisenach, Germany, where Johann was baptized. This two disc 11th release (actually Volume 22) wonderfully maintains those very lofty standards that Gardiner and his forces have set previously. Volume 22 is filled with some of the most glorious choruses that I feel dear Johann ever penned. The Monteverdi Chorus and The English Baroque Soloist, playing on "original instruments", are splendid indeed. Listen to the very early and very familiar cantata "Christ lag in Todesbanden", BWV 4, on the 1st disc. That Cantata certainly finds JS Bach at his very best (and that's saying a whole lot). The rather operatic sounding cantata "Ein Herr Das Seinen" on the second disc is marvelous too. The performances, (as in the entire recording), in those Cantatas also find Gardiner and his forces at their very best delivering truly awe inspiring performances of the works. The works in Volume 22 were written for the "Easter Season" which is, of course, a very important time for all Christian churches and Bach in the works contained in Volume 22 certainly "rises to the occasion"--the works in this release are glorious in every way. Volume 22 contains some of the most "moving" music that I have ever heard! Although this release features some marvelous choral music, the soloists have plenty to do, and they do it very well!

Stephen Varcoe's bass voice has never been particularly appealing to me; however, in this recording, he delivers his solos admirably executing the "runs" trills, grace notes, etc., wonderfully. Again, tenor James Gilchrist, is most splendid singing his arias and recitatives accurately and beautifully easily meeting Bach's many vocal challenges--listen to tracts 13 and 14 of the 1st disc and tract 8 of the second disc. Male alto, Daniel Taylor, is good too singing with full rich tones--no "countertenor hoots" are to be heard. The two soprano soloists are "easy on the ear" possessing sweet light lyric and very flexible soprano voices.

Some fine examples of Bach's great instrumental writing are also very evident in Volume 22 with some wonderful trumpet, oboe, violin and cello obbligatos. I loved the lively "Sonata" that serves as an instrumental introduction to the cantata, "Der Himmell Lache" as well as the "Sinfonia" to the cantata
"Christ lag in Todesbanden".

Although, this is a "live" recording, the extraneous noise level is very low. One would never know that it is "live" if it were not so indicated on the "jacket" as such. Plus the recorded sound is marvelous being so clear, rich and full.

Per usual, Gardiner's notes (in the very nice booklet-type recording sleeve) are very informative giving the historical and religious significance of the works contained therein (I just wish that there were photos of the soloist--just a very minor quibble on my part--I do, however, really like the cover photos on all of the releases thus far--they are wonderful).

In conclusion, I adore this release, as I'm sure you will too, if you purchase Volume 22 of Gardiner's "Bach Pilgrimage"; it's truly wonderful.

Continues the high standard for the series.......2007-05-30

Volume 22 (Number 11 in the series) of Sir John Eliot Gardiner's 2000 Bach Cantata Pilgrimage covers cantatas written for Easter Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. They were recorded at Georgenkirche (St. George's Church) in Eisenach, Germany, where J. S. Bach was baptized and later served as concertmaster. No setting could be more appropriate for these fantastic Easter cantatas.

There really is very little that can be said to review the releases from the Bach Cantata Pilgrimage. Each performance is glorious, soaring, intimate, meaningful, and moving, and Volume 22 does not disappoint. The highlight is probably the magnificent BWV 4 (Christ lag in Todesbanden), with its theme of Christ's triumph over death, but BWV 6 (Bleib bei uns, denn es will Abend werden) is the most personal and complex of this disk.

As with all releases in this series, the packaging is exquisite with Gardiner's lucid liner notes. Highest recommendation for both this release and the series.

Contents:

Cantatas for Easter Sunday
BWV 4, "Christ lag in Todesbanden"
BWV 31, "Der Himmel lacht! die Erde jubliliert"

Cantatas for Easter Monday
BWV 66, "Erfreut euch, ihr Herzen"
BWV 6, "Bleib bei uns, denn es will Abend werden"

Cantatas for Easter Tuesday
BWV 134, "Ein Herz, das seinen Jesum lebend weiss"
BWV 145, "Ich lebe, mein Herze, zu deinem Ergotzen"

Bach Cantatas, Vol. 10: Potsdam/Wittenberg

Average customer rating:

There's really no point in reviewing these cantatas...
GARDINER AND I CONTINUE OUR BACH PILGRIMAGE MOST SPLENDIDLY
Cantatas by BWV # and name

Bach Cantatas, Vol. 10: Potsdam/Wittenberg

Manufacturer: Soli Deo Gloria
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Cantatas, Vol. 7

ASIN: B000ANPXDG
Release Date: 2005-11-08

Tracks:

Coro Con Choral
Recitativo
Choral
Aria
Recitativo
Aria
Choral
Cora
Recitativo
Aria
Recitativo
Aria
Recitativo
Choral
Aria
Recitativo
Aria
Recitativo
Choral
Aria
Rectativo
Aria
Recitativo
Choral

Tracks:

Coro
Aria
Choral
Recitativo
Aria
Choral
Coro
Aria
Coro Lob
Coro
Aria
recitatvio
Aria
Choral
Recitativo
Aria
Choral

Customer Reviews:

There's really no point in reviewing these cantatas..........2007-03-19

...'cos they're all going to be good (in addition to being the most gorgeously packaged CDs you'll ever see).

This issue has a stunning version of one of the giants, BWV80 "Ein feste Burg". Gardiner has thankfully dispensed with the trumpets and drums shoved in by eldest son Wilhelm Friedmann to tart it up (after the old man died). It doesn't really need them. The rest are marvellous. I'm going to go broke and love it...

GARDINER AND I CONTINUE OUR BACH PILGRIMAGE MOST SPLENDIDLY .......2006-02-24

By the purchase of this fourth installment of Gardiner's Bach pilgrimage, (actually it's numbered Volume 10 of the series) obviously, I'm still, very much, enjoying my Bach journey with Gardiner! Gardiner and his forces are unbelievably good performing these Cantatas masterfully. Everything about this whole enterprise is stupendous-the singing from the Monteverdi Choir, the orchestra (comprising of "original" instruments) play and sing unbelievably well; most of all, Gardiner's leadership reeks of his intellectual and meticulous study of these works. All of the aforesaid attributes translate (for the musical amateur like me) into just simply a beautiful rendering of Bach's glorious cantatas. The works contained in Volume 10 find Johann at his very best! Just listen to the cantata "WO soll ich fliehen hin, BWV 5-it's GORGEOUS!! (The soloists in this volume are superb singing Bach's wonderful melodies and the ornamentations therein wonderfully.

O.k. you (what I call) "Authenticity Police" can "call off" the dogs-I provisionally acquiesce to the use of the countertenor voice. (At least in these recordings!) This is in contrast to my previous held opinion. I am actually enjoying the Countertenors in Gardiner's Bach pilgrimage. I especially enjoyed the Countertenor, in this Volume 10. William Towers sings most beautifully and accurately and most of all his singing is very pleasing to my ear-no hoots are to be heard; there's even a hint of "chest" voice used by him when it is required. More importantly he does sing Bach's beautiful vocal lines splendidly! Once again, tenor James Gilchrist is overwhelmingly good. He has a sweet tenor voice that can turn heroic when required plus his runs are awe inspiring. (Just listen to track 15 of the first disc--fabulous!)Peter Harvey the bass has a rock solid voice well able to do justice to Bach's vocal demands. The soprano (Joanne Lunn) is very good also. (I am on record on this board of preferring the use of the female soprano voice in these works as opposed to the use of the pubescent unchanged little boy's voices trying to negotiate the vocal writing for sopranos in Bach's works.)

Obviously, I'm still thrilled with this Cantata series and intend to purchase additional releases as they become available.

In closing, for a complete magnificent overview of the contents of Volume 10, see the first review herein. I truly admire that reviewer's thoroughness!

Cantatas by BWV # and name.......2005-12-11

This is not really a review but a helpful tool for potential buyers. Listed below are the BWV numbers as well as names of the cantatas contained on this set (since amazon.com only lists by name and not the necessary BWV#).

Gardiner's interpretations bring clarity and distinctness amongst other Cantata recordings. His work is always meticulous.

Cantatas on this set:

Wo soll ich fliehen hin?, BWV 5 (A wonderful cantata by Bach done in the unusual key of Bb - one of 3 in the cantata cycles).

Ich elender Mensch, wer wird mich erlösen vom Leibe dieses Todes, BWV 48

Ich will den Kreuzstab gerne tragen, BWV 56

Gott, der Herr, ist Sonn und Schild, BWV 79

Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott, BWV 80

Es reisset euch ein schrecklich Ende, ihr sündlichen verächter, hin, BWV 90 (Another cantata in Bb - the Aria with Bass and trumpet is superb - and difficult to play!)

Nun danket alle Gott, BWV 192

Enjoy!!

Track Listings:

Track Listings

track listings

Track Listings

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