Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical and operatic masterpieces with Kathleen Battle's "Essentials," a captivating collection released on January 24, 2020, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. This album is a testament to Kathleen Battle's extraordinary vocal prowess and versatility, spanning a diverse range of genres including opera, choral, and classical music.
Spanning nearly two hours, "Essentials" features a stunning array of tracks from renowned compositions such as "Roméo et Juliette," "Porgy and Bess," and "Don Giovanni," showcasing Kathleen Battle's ability to bring depth and emotion to each piece. From the hauntingly beautiful "Summertime" to the powerful "Oh, had I Jubal's lyre," the album is a journey through some of the most beloved and timeless works in the classical repertoire.
Kathleen Battle's crystalline voice and impeccable technique shine through in every track, making this album a true celebration of her artistry. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Essentials" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the enduring power and beauty of these iconic pieces.
Tracks
Roméo et Juliette: Ah, je veux vivre dans ce reveCharles Gounod, Kathleen Battle, Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Myung-Whun Chung
Porgy and Bess: SummertimeGeorge Gershwin, Kathleen Battle, Orchestra of St. Luke's, André Previn
Giulio Cesare in Egitto, HWV 17: E pur cosi - Piangerò la sorte miaGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Battle, Margo Garrett
Manon: Allons, il le faut - Adieu, notre petite tableJules Massenet, Kathleen Battle, Choeurs de l'Opera Bastille, Denis Dubois, Orchestre de l'Opéra National de Paris, Myung-Whun Chung
Don Giovanni, K. 527: No. 12, Batti, batti, o bel MasettoWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kathleen Battle, Berliner Philharmoniker, Herbert von Karajan
Oedipus, Z. 583: Music For A WhileHenry Purcell, Kathleen Battle, James Levine
Das Veilchen, K. 476Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kathleen Battle, James Levine
Ridente la calma, K. 152 (After J. Mysliveček)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kathleen Battle, James Levine
L'elisir d'amore: "Benedette queste carte!"Gaetano Donizetti, Kathleen Battle, Dawn Upshaw, Luciano Pavarotti, Metropolitan Opera Chorus, David Stivender, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, James Levine
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: No. 3 Song with Chorus "You spotted snakes"Felix Mendelssohn, Kathleen Battle, Frederica von Stade, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa, Tanglewood Festival Chorus, John Oliver
Porgy and Bess: I loves you, PorgyGeorge Gershwin, Kathleen Battle, Orchestra of St. Luke's, André Previn
La traviata: "Signora...Che t'accadde...Parigi, o cara"Giuseppe Verdi, Kathleen Battle, Margaret Jane Wray, Plácido Domingo, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, James Levine, Max Epstein
Joshua, HWV 64, Pt. 3: No. 63, Oh, had I Jubal's lyreGeorge Frideric Handel, Kathleen Battle, James Levine
Der Hirt auf dem Felsen, D. 965Franz Schubert, Kathleen Battle, James Levine, Karl Leister
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