Immerse yourself in the captivating early recordings of Benjamin Britten, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century. This album, "Britten & Pears: The Early HMV Recordings," released on Heritage Records in 2012, offers a unique glimpse into the formative years of Britten's illustrious career. Spanning a diverse range of genres including classical, requiem, opera, neoclassical, and choral, the album presents a rich tapestry of Britten's musical prowess.
The album features a compelling selection of works, including Britten's settings of Michelangelo's seven sonnets, Op. 22, and John Donne's holy sonnets, Op. 35. These pieces showcase Britten's exceptional ability to translate profound poetry into evocative music. Additionally, the album includes a variety of traditional and folk-inspired pieces, such as "The Plough Boy," "O Waly, Waly," and "The Foggy, Foggy Dew," demonstrating Britten's versatility and his deep connection to the musical heritage of his time.
The album also features Britten's "Old American Songs," a collection of charming and nostalgic tunes that highlight his affinity for American folk music. Rounding out the collection are two settings of German poems by Franz Schubert, "Im Frühling" and "Auf der Bruck," performed by the renowned baritone Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau.
With a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of early Britten performances, offering both seasoned fans and newcomers an opportunity to explore the depth and breadth of his musical genius. The recordings, originally made for HMV, have been meticulously restored and presented here, providing a clear and vivid sound that brings Britten's music to life. Whether you're a devoted admirer of classical music or simply curious about the early works of one of the 20th century's most celebrated composers, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Si Come Nella PennaBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: A Che Piu Debb 'io maiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Veggio co 'bei Vostri OcchiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Tu sa 'ch 'io soBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Rendete a Gli Occhi MieiBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: S'un Casto AmorBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo, Op. 22: Spirto ben NatoBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Oh My Blacke Soule!"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Batter My Heart"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "O Might Those Sighes and Teares"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Oh, to Vex Me"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "What If This Present"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Since She Whom I Loved"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "At the Round Earth's Imagined Corners"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Thou Hast Made Me"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, Op. 35: "Death, Be Not Proud"Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Plough BoyTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Come You Not from NewcastleTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
O Waly, WalyTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
The Foggy, Foggy DewTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Six Dukes Went a-FishinTraditional, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: The Boatmen's Dance (Minstrel Song 1843)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: Long Time AgoAaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: The Dodger (Campaign Song)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: Simple Gifts (Shaker Song)Aaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Old American Songs: I Bought Me a CatAaron Copland, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Im Frühling, D. 882 (Schulze)Franz Schubert, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
Auf der Bruck, D. 853 (Schulze)Franz Schubert, Benjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears
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