Frederic Austin's "Austin: The Beggar's Opera - Polly" is a captivating journey through the world of 18th-century English ballad opera, released on August 2, 2011, under the Symposium label. This album is a testament to Austin's meticulous attention to detail and his deep understanding of the period's musical nuances. Clocking in at just over an hour and eight minutes, the album is a comprehensive exploration of the operatic works "The Beggar's Opera" and its sequel "Polly," both originally composed by John Christopher Pepusch.
Austin's interpretation brings a fresh perspective to these classic works, showcasing his ability to blend historical authenticity with modern sensibilities. The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, each bringing their unique talents to the table, from the soaring tenor solos to the rich, harmonious choruses. The performances are accompanied by period-appropriate instrumentation, creating an immersive soundscape that transports the audience back to the bustling streets of London in the 1720s.
The tracklist is a rollercoaster of emotions, from the playful and humorous "The Crow or Daw" to the poignant and reflective "She who hath felt a real pain." Austin's arrangements highlight the wit and social commentary of the original librettos, making the album as engaging as it is musically impressive. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Austin: The Beggar's Opera - Polly" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the enduring appeal of these timeless works.
Tracks
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: Virgins Are like the fair flower (Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: Can love be controlled by advice? (Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: O Polly, you might have toy'd and kiss'd (Mrs. Peachum, Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: A fox may steal your hens (Mrs. Peachum) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: O ponder well (Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: The turtle thus with plaintive crying (Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: My heart was so free (Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: Were I laid on Greenland's coast (Polly, Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act I: Oh! What pain It Is to part (Polly, Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Fill every glass (Filch, Chorus) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Let us take the road (Filch, Chorus) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: If the heart of a man (Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Music to a Dialogue (After J.C. Pepusch Version)Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Why, how now Madame Flirt? (Molly Brazen, Mrs. Vixen) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Before the barn door crowing (Jenny Diver, Ladies Chorus) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Man may escape from rope and gun (Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Thus when a good housewife sees a rat (Lucy) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: The first time at the looking glass (Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Thus gamesters united in friendship Are found (Peachum, Lockit) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Thus when the swallow (Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: How happy I could be with either (Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: I'm bubbled, I'm troubled (Polly, Lucy) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act II: Cease your funning (Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act III: Here in a humour I was of late (Tenor, Chorus) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act III: The modes of the Court so common Are grown (Macheath, Filch, Chorus) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act III: In the days of my youth (Diana Trapes, Peachum, Lockit) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act III: Interlude (After J.C. Pepusch Version)Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act III: I'm like a skiff on the ocean tost (Lucy) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act III: O cruel, cruel case (Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
The Beggar's Opera, Act III: Would I might be hanged (Polly, Lucy, Macheath) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Arthur Wynn, Frederick Ranalaw, Alfred Heather, Nellie Walker, Nonny Lock, Sylvia Nelis, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Studio Chorus, Eugene Goossens
Polly, Act I: She who hath felt a real pain (Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Clifford Bax, Lilian Davies, Stanley Vilven, Winifred Hare, Pitt Chatham, Percy Parsons, Adrienne Brune, Lovat Crosley, Gladys Sinclair, Studio Chorus, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Polly, Act I: The Crow or Daw (Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Clifford Bax, Lilian Davies, Stanley Vilven, Winifred Hare, Pitt Chatham, Percy Parsons, Adrienne Brune, Lovat Crosley, Gladys Sinclair, Studio Chorus, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Polly, Act I: I will have my humours (Mr. Ducat, Polly) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Clifford Bax, Frederic Austin, Lilian Davies, Stanley Vilven, Winifred Hare, Pitt Chatham, Percy Parsons, Adrienne Brune, Lovat Crosley, Gladys Sinclair, Studio Chorus, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Polly, Act I: When a woman jealous grows (Mr. And Mrs. Ducat) [After J.C. Pepusch Version]Frederic Austin, Clifford Bax, Lilian Davies, Stanley Vilven, Winifred Hare, Pitt Chatham, Percy Parsons, Adrienne Brune, Lovat Crosley, Gladys Sinclair, Studio Chorus, Kingsway Theatre Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
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