Dive into the world of political intrigue and historical drama with John Adams' groundbreaking opera, "Nixon in China." This seminal work, released in 1996, marks Adams' debut in the opera genre and is a testament to his innovative approach to minimalism and avant-garde composition. With a libretto by Alice Goodman, the opera is inspired by the iconic visit of U.S. President Richard Nixon to China in 1972, a pivotal moment in global politics.
"Nixon in China" is a sprawling, three-act opera that weaves together historical events and personal narratives, creating a rich tapestry of sound and storytelling. The album features a stunning array of vocal and instrumental performances, brought to life by the Orchestra of St. Luke's under the direction of Edo de Waart. With a running time of over two hours, the opera is a monumental achievement, showcasing Adams' unique musical language and his ability to blend contemporary themes with classical forms.
The opera's score is a masterclass in minimalist composition, with repetitive motifs and intricate harmonies that build to powerful climaxes. The libretto, meanwhile, delves into the personal and political complexities of the Nixon visit, exploring themes of power, diplomacy, and human connection. From the opening scenes of Nixon's arrival in China to the intimate moments between the characters, the opera is a compelling exploration of a pivotal moment in history.
"Nixon in China" is not just an opera; it's a cultural event. The album captures the essence of this groundbreaking work, offering listeners a chance to experience the opera's unique blend of music and drama. Whether you're a fan of classical music, opera, or simply appreciate innovative composition, "Nixon in China" is an album that demands your attention. With its richly layered score and compelling narrative, it's a work that will leave a lasting impression.
This LP was released in 1988.
Tracks
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 1 - (Beginning)John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 1 - "Soldiers of Heaven Hold the Sky"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 1 - "The People Are the Heroes Now"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 1 - Landing of the Spirit of '76John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 1 - "Your Flight Was Smooth, I Hope?"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 1 - "News Has a Kind of Mystery:"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 2 - (Beginning)John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 2 - "You Know We'll Meet with Your Confrere The Democratic CandidateJohn Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 2 - "You've Said That There's a Certain Well-known Tree"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 2 - "Founders Came First, then Profiteers."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 2 - "We No Longer Need Confucius."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 2 - "Like the Ming Tombs."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 3 - (Beginning)John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 3 - Ladies and Gentlemen, Comrades and FriendsJohn Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 3 - Mr. Premier, Distinguished GuestsJohn Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act I, Scene 3 - CheersJohn Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 1 - (Beginning)John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 1 - "Look Down at the Earth,"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 1 - "This Is Prophetic!"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 1 - "At Least the Weather's Warming up."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 2 - (Beginning)John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 2 - "Oh What a Day I Thought I'd Die!"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 2 - "Whip Her to Death!"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 2 - Tropical StormJohn Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 2 - "Flesh Rebels"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 2 - "I Have My Brief"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 2 - "It Seems so Strange"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act II, Scene 2 - "I Am the Wife of Mao Tse-tung"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - (Beginning)John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "Some Men You Cannot Satisfy."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "I Am No One."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - The Maos DanceJohn Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "Sitting around the Radio"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "Let Us Examine What You Did."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "When I Woke up I Dimly Realized the Jap Bombers Had Given Us a"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "I Have No Offspring."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "I Can keep Still,"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "After that the Sweat Had Soaked My Uniform"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "Peking Watches the Stars,"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "You Won at Poker."John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Adams: Nixon in China: Act III - "I Am Old and I Cannot Sleep"John Adams, Edo de Waart, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
We don't have a live price right now, but stock fluctuates daily. You can check for hidden stock on Amazon directly, or let us alert you as soon as it is available.
