Michael Berkeley's "Baa Baa Black Sheep" is a captivating and immersive musical journey, released on February 1, 2004, under the Chandos label. This ambitious work is a two-act opera that masterfully blends the classic tale of Mowgli from Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book" with the chilling narrative of the infamous child murderer, Frederick Baker, also known as "Baa Baa Black Sheep." Spanning a substantial 1 hour and 55 minutes, the album is a testament to Berkeley's compositional prowess and his ability to weave together disparate stories into a cohesive and compelling whole.
The opera is divided into three acts, each containing multiple scenes that seamlessly transition between the jungle adventures of Mowgli and the dark, sinister world of Frederick Baker. The tracklist is a rich tapestry of characters and themes, featuring standout pieces like "I am Shere Khan," "Free," and "Apple Charlotte." Each track is meticulously crafted, showcasing Berkeley's intricate musical language and his keen ear for dramatic tension.
Michael Berkeley, known for his innovative and accessible approach to contemporary classical music, brings a unique perspective to this opera. His compositional style, characterized by its lyrical melodies and rich harmonies, is perfectly suited to the dual narratives of "Baa Baa Black Sheep." The album is a striking example of Berkeley's ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
"Baa Baa Black Sheep" is not just an opera; it's a profound exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, morality, and the duality of human nature. Through his music, Berkeley invites the audience to reflect on the complexities of these themes, making for a deeply engaging and thought-provoking listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding journey into the world of Michael Berkeley's music.
Tracks
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act I: PreludeMichael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act I Scene 1: A Passage from India. Punch! Punch! Punch! (Judy, Punch, Meeta, Bhini, Salaam-Captain, Father,Michael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Malcolm Lorimer, Ann Taylor-Morley, Clive Bayley, Mark Holland, Paul McCann, George Mosley
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act I Scene 2: In the House of Desolation. Punch! Punch! Where are your manners? (Father, Punch, Mother, JudyMichael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Malcolm Lorimer, Ann Taylor-Morley, George Mosley, Eileen Hulse, Fiona Kimm, Philip Sheffield
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act I Scene 3: At the Council Rock. I am Shere Khan (Shere Khan, Mother Wolf, Father Wolf, Akela, Baloo, BaghMichael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, George Mosley, Eileen Hulse, Henry Newman, Mark Holland, Philip Sheffield, Clive Bayley
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act I Scene 4: The Education of Mowgli. I will feed him (Mother Wolf, Father Wolf, Ka, Baloo, Bagheera, GreyMichael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, George Mosley, Eileen Hulse, Malcolm Lorimer, Mark Holland, Ann Taylor-Morley, Clive Bayley
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act II Scene 1: The Ways of Man. Little brother, how often must I tell you? (Bagheera, Mowgli)Michael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Malcolm Lorimer, Clive Bayley
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act II Scene 2: Akela Misses His Kill. Free (Mowgli, Wolves, Akela, Shere Khan, Baloo, Ka, Bagheera, Mother WMichael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, William Dazeley, Clive Bayley, Mark Holland, George Mosley, Eileen Hulse, Ann Taylor-Morley
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act II Scene 3: A Death in the House. You're a liar (Harry, Captain, Punch, Auntirosa, Judy, Villagers)Michael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Malcolm Lorimer, Ann Taylor-Morley, Fiona Kimm, Philip Sheffield, Henry Newman, Vivienne Bailey
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act II Scene 4: In the Village. What is it? (Villagers, Priest, Messua, Grey Wolf, Mowgli, Baldeo, Others)Michael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, William Dazeley, Ann Taylor-Morley, Brian Cookson, Eileen Hulse, Fiona Kimm
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act III Scene 1: Black Sheep. Apple Charlotte (Judy, Punch, Auntirosa, Harry, Akela, Ka, Bagheera, Grey Wolf)Michael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Malcolm Lorimer, Ann Taylor-Morley, Fiona Kimm, Philip Sheffield, Henry Newman, Clive Bayley
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act III Scene 2: Letting in the Jungle. I knew that you would come. (Messua, Mowgli, Man, Akela, Ka, Baloo, GMichael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, William Dazeley, Eileen Hulse, Mark Holland, Ann Taylor-Morley, Clive Bayley, Paul McCann
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act III Scene 3: The Spring Running. Ah, Grey Wolf (Mowgli, Baloo, Akela, Ka, Bagheera, Grey Wolf)Michael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, William Dazeley, Mark Holland, Ann Taylor-Morley, Clive Bayley, Paul McCann, Henry Newman
Baa Baa Black Sheep, Act III Scene 4: Return. Punch! Punch! My poor boy (Mother, Punch)Michael Berkeley, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Malcolm Lorimer, Eileen Hulse
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