Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Leoš Janáček's opera "The Makropulos Case," a masterful exploration of mortality and the human condition. This 2007 release from Chandos brings together a stellar cast and the renowned Sir Charles Mackerras to deliver a performance that is both powerful and intimate. The opera, divided into three acts, unfolds over nearly two hours, offering a rich tapestry of chamber music that is as engaging as it is profound.
Janáček's score is a testament to his unique ability to blend folk influences with modernist techniques, creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative. The opera's libretto, based on Karel Čapek's play, delves into the story of Elina Makropulos, a woman who has lived for centuries due to a magical elixir. The characters' struggles and dilemmas are brought to life through the exquisite performances of the cast, each bringing depth and nuance to their roles.
The album includes an insightful interview with Sir Charles Mackerras, providing context and background that enriches the listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the genre, this recording offers a compelling introduction to Janáček's work and the timeless themes it explores.
Tracks
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act I: PreludeLeoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act I: Oh dear, my goodness! (Vitek, Gregor)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Robert Brubaker, John Graham-Hall
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act I: Daddy, she really is wonderful (Vitek, Gregor)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Robert Brubaker, John Graham-Hall
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act I: Come this way please (Kolenaty, Kristina, Marty, Gregor)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Robert Brubaker, Cheryl Barker, Neal Davies, Elena Xanthoudakis
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act I: Gone at last! (Gregor, Marty)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Robert Brubaker, Cheryl Barker
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act I: Emilia (Gregor, Marty)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Robert Brubaker, Cheryl Barker
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act I: Found it! We've found it (Kolenaty, Marty, Gregor, Prus)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Robert Brubaker, Cheryl Barker, Neal Davies, John Wegner
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act II: Did you ever see such flowers? (Cleaner, Stage Hand, Prus)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, John Wegner, Kathleen Wilkinson, Graeme Danby
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act II: Janek, come on. No one here will see us (Kristina, Janek, Prus, Marty, Gregor, Vitek)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, John Wegner, Cheryl Barker, Robert Brubaker, John Graham-Hall, Elena Xanthoudakis, Thomas Walker
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act II: Excuse me. Excuse me, may I… (Hauk, Marty, Prus)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, John Wegner, Cheryl Barker, Graham Clark
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act II: And the next! Is that the lot? (Marty, Vitek, Kristina, Janek, Prus, Gregor)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, John Wegner, Cheryl Barker, Robert Brubaker, John Graham-Hall, Elena Xanthoudakis, Thomas Walker
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act II: Allow me to ask you this question (Prus, Marty)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, John Wegner, Cheryl Barker
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act II: Is that you, Bertie? (Marty, Gregor, Cleaner, Janek, Prus)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, John Wegner, Cheryl Barker, Robert Brubaker, Thomas Walker, Kathleen Wilkinson
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act III: Well? D'you hear me? (Marty, Prus, Chambermaid)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, John Wegner, Cheryl Barker, Susanna Tudor-Thomas
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act III: Buenos dias Maxi! Why so early? (Marty, Hauk, Chambermaid, Kolenaty, Gregor)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Cheryl Barker, Neal Davies, Robert Brubaker, Graham Clark, Susanna Tudor-Thomas
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act III: The seal and th'initials E.M. (Gregor, Vitek, Kolenaty, Prus, Marty, Kristina)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Cheryl Barker, Neal Davies, Robert Brubaker, John Graham-Hall, John Wegner, Elena Xanthoudakis
The Makropulos Case, JW 1/10, Act III: Fetch the doctor! (Kolenaty, Marty, Gregor, Vitek, Prus, Kristina, Chorus)Leoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras, English National Opera Orchestra, Cheryl Barker, Neal Davies, Robert Brubaker, John Graham-Hall, John Wegner, Elena Xanthoudakis
Interview with Sir Charles MackerrasLeoš Janáček, Sir Charles Mackerras
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