Dive into the rich tapestry of Baroque music with Henry Purcell's "King Arthur," a seminal work that showcases the composer's mastery of both choral and orchestral forms. Released in 1979 by Harmonia Mundi, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Purcell's dramatic and lyrical genius, spanning a captivating 1 hour and 38 minutes.
"King Arthur" is a semi-opera that blends the grandeur of Baroque orchestration with the narrative power of choral and solo vocal performances. The album features a diverse array of tracks, from the stirring overtures and intricate instrumental pieces to the poignant arias and powerful choruses. Highlights include the haunting "Cold Song," the lively "Hornpipe," and the majestic "Fairest Isle," each piece demonstrating Purcell's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and atmospheres.
This recording is a testament to Purcell's enduring influence and the timeless appeal of his music. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "King Arthur" offers a rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of Baroque music. The album's meticulous production and the skillful performances bring Purcell's vision to life, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the rich heritage of classical music.
Tracks
King Arthur, Z. 628: Overture - Air - OvertureHenry Purcell, The Deller Consort, Roderick Skeaping, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act I, Scene 2: "Woden first to thee" (Bass) - "Brave Souls" (Chorus) - "I call ye all" (Counter-tenor)Henry Purcell, Maurice Bevan, The King’s Musick, Mark Deller, The Deller Consort, Roderick Skeaping, Alfred Deller
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act I, Scene 3: "Come if you dare" (Tenor and Chorus)Henry Purcell, Paul Elliott, The Deller Consort, The King’s Musick, Alfred Deller, Roderick Skeaping
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act II, Scene 1: "Hither this way bend" (Philidel) - "Let not a Moon-born Elf" (Grimbald) - "Hitheer this way" (Philidel)Henry Purcell, Jean Knibbs, Roderick Skeaping, The Deller Consort, Nigel Beavan, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act II, Scene 2: "How blest are Shepherds" (Shepherd) - "Shepherd, leave Decoying" (2 Shepherdesses) - HornpipeHenry Purcell, Jean Knibbs, The Deller Consort, The King’s Musick, Alfred Deller, Honor Sheppard, Roderick Skeaping
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act III, Scene 2: Prelude. "What ho" (Cupid)Henry Purcell, Rosemary Hardy, The Deller Consort, Alfred Deller, Roderick Skeaping, The King’s Musick
King Arthur: Act III, scene 2: Cold Song. Genius : "What Power art thou"Henry Purcell, Maurice Bevan, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act III, Scene 2: "Tis I, that have warm'd ye" (Cupid) - "Sound a Parley" (Cupid & Genius) - AirHenry Purcell, Rosemary Hardy, The Deller Consort, Alfred Deller, Maurice Bevan, Roderick Skeaping, The King’s Musick
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act IV, Scene 2: "Two Daugthers" (Two Syrens)Henry Purcell, Jean Knibbs, The Deller Consort, Alfred Deller, Honor Sheppard, Roderick Skeaping, The King’s Musick
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act IV, Scene 2: "How happy the Lover" (Alto) - Fourth Act TuneHenry Purcell, Mark Deller, Roderick Skeaping, The Deller Consort, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V, Scene 2: Trompet Tune - "Ye Blust'ring Brethren" (Aeolius)Henry Purcell, The Deller Consort, The King’s Musick, Roderick Skeaping, Alfred Deller
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V, The Final masque: Symphony - Song Tune - "Round thy Coasts" (Nereid & Pan) - "For Folded Flocks" (Alto, Tenor & Bass)Henry Purcell, Jean Knibbs, Roderick Skeaping, The Deller Consort, Maurice Bevan, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V, The Final masque: Song Tune. "Your Hay"Henry Purcell, The Deller Consort, Roderick Skeaping, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V, The Final masque: "Fairest Isle" (Venus)Henry Purcell, Honor Sheppard, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick, Roderick Skeaping, The Deller Consort
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V, The Final masque: "You say" (Soprano) - "This not my passion" (Bass) - "But one soft Moment" (Bass)Henry Purcell, The Deller Consort, The King’s Musick, Alfred Deller, Roderick Skeaping
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V, The Final masque: Trompet Tune - "St. George" (Honour)Henry Purcell, The Deller Consort, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick, Roderick Skeaping
King Arthur, Z. 628, Act V, The Final masque: ChaconneHenry Purcell, The Deller Consort, Alfred Deller, The King’s Musick, Roderick Skeaping
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