Experience the captivating world of Judith Weir's "A Night at the Chinese Opera," a live recording of her groundbreaking opera that seamlessly blends comedy, melodrama, and tragedy. This choral masterpiece, released on April 1, 2012, by NMC Recordings, is a testament to Weir's unique compositional style and her ability to weave intricate narratives through music.
Commissioned by the BBC and originally performed by Kent Opera, "A Night at the Chinese Opera" is Weir's first full-scale opera, following an earlier work for children. The opera is set against the backdrop of 14th-century China during the invasion by Genghis Khan and tells the story of Chao Lin, an orphaned boy. The centerpiece of Act 2 is an adaptation of the early Chinese play "The Orphan of Zhao" from the Yuan dynasty, adding a layer of historical depth to the opera.
The album features a stellar cast, including Gwion Thomas, Adey Grummet, Frances McCafferty, and Adrian Thompson, accompanied by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Andrew Parrott. The performance, originally staged by Kent Opera in Bath, England, in 1988, is brought to life with vivid storytelling and rich musical textures.
With a duration of 1 hour and 33 minutes, the album comprises 22 tracks that capture the essence of each act and scene, from the Nightwatchman's Song to the dramatic Finale. Weir's libretto, which she also wrote, is delivered with immaculate clarity, making the opera accessible and engaging for both opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
"A Night at the Chinese Opera" is not just an opera; it's a vivid portrayal of a bygone era, brought to life through Weir's distinctive musical language. The opera's blend of humor, drama, and tragedy makes it a standout work in the choral genre, showcasing Weir's talent for creating compelling narratives through music. Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply looking for a unique listening experience, this live recording is sure to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Nightwatchman's Song - LiveJudith Weir, Timothy Robinson, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Aubade - LiveJudith Weir, Michael Chance, Michael George, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Sextet - LiveJudith Weir, Gwion Thomas, Adey Grummet, Frances McCafferty, Adrian Thompson, Michael Chance, Michael George, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Mrs Chin's Peroration - LiveJudith Weir, Frances McCafferty, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Kite, in moto perpetuo - LiveJudith Weir, Adrian Thompson, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Aria, with Rising Floodwaters - LiveJudith Weir, Gwion Thomas, Michael Chance, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Chansonette - LiveJudith Weir, Frances Lynch, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Seven-Part Motet - LiveJudith Weir, Gwion Thomas, Frances McCafferty, Adrian Thompson, Michael George, Adey Grummet, Frances Lynch, Karl Daymond, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act I: Finale - LiveJudith Weir, Timothy Robinson, Frances McCafferty, Adrian Thompson, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act II: The Wedge (Or Prelude) - LiveJudith Weir, Adey Grummet, Frances Lynch, Karl Daymond, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act II: First Act of "The Orphan" (Live)Judith Weir, Adey Grummet, Frances Lynch, Karl Daymond, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act II: Second Act of "The Orphan" - LiveJudith Weir, Adey Grummet, Frances Lynch, Karl Daymond, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act II: Third Act of "The Orphan" - LiveJudith Weir, Adey Grummet, Frances Lynch, Karl Daymond, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act II: Fourth Act of "The Orphan" - LiveJudith Weir, Adey Grummet, Frances Lynch, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act II: Coda. Eathquake - LiveJudith Weir, Timothy Robinson, Michael George, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act III: Introduction. Recitativo. Il Gran Cane ha fatto - LiveJudith Weir, Timothy Robinson, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act III: Prisoners' Chorus - LiveJudith Weir, Gwion Thomas, Adey Grummet, Frances Lynch, Michael Chance, Michael George, Karl Daymond, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act III: Misterioso - LiveJudith Weir, Frances McCafferty, Gwion Thomas, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act III: The Ascent - LiveJudith Weir, Gwion Thomas, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act III: The Blue Sky! - LiveJudith Weir, Gwion Thomas, Adrian Thompson, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act III: Nocturne - LiveJudith Weir, Gwion Thomas, Michael Chance, Michael George, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
A Night at the Chinese Opera, Op. 3, Act III: Finale - LiveJudith Weir, Michael Chance, Adey Grummet, Frances Lynch, Karl Daymond, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Andrew Parrott
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