06. "O Thou that Tellest Good Tidings" Judas Maccabaeus
07. "Father of Heaven" Messiah
08. "He Was Despis?d" Atalanta
09. "Like as the Love-lorn Turtle" Rodelinda
10. "Art Thou Troubled?" Serse
11. "Largo: Ombra mai fu" Cantata BWV 11
12. "Ah Tarry Yet my Dearest Saviour" St. Matthew Passion
13. "Have Mercy, Lord"
Description:
Kathleen Ferrier Sings Bach & Handel is an album by Johann Sebastian Bach, released in 2022. The album is a classical CD. - .. BACH & HANDEL
This CD presents the immortal contralto Kathleen Ferrier in deeply moving interpretations of sacred works by Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel, accompanied by Sir Adrian Boult and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. With her uniquely warm, dark-timbred voice and impeccable diction, Ferrier shapes the arias with a rare mixture of nobility, humility and emotional intensity. The selection highlights her special gift for baroque sacred repertoire: every phrase feels thoughtfully sculpted, yet completely natural and sincere, making these performances reference recordings for many lovers of vocal music. The clear, direct sound and the focused orchestral accompaniment provide an ideal frame for Ferrier's voice, allowing the spiritual character and inner calm of the music to shine through.
Kathleen Ferrier (1912-1953) was one of the most admired contraltos of the 20th century and became legendary despite her tragically short career. She was celebrated above all for her interpretations of Bach, Handel and Mahler as well as for English song, and worked with eminent conductors such as Bruno Walter and John Barbirolli. Her recordings of Mahler's "Das Lied von der Erde" and "Kindertotenlieder", as well as of Handel arias, remain benchmarks in the discography. Ferrier's warm, instantly recognisable tone and her unaffected, honest musicality won her a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide and continue to inspire new generations of listeners.
The conductor Sir Adrian Boult and the London Philharmonic Orchestra provide refined, stylistically informed support that never overshadows the soloist. Their clear phrasing, balanced tempos and transparent orchestral sound reflect long experience with baroque repertoire and a deep understanding of the sacred dimension of this music. The interplay between Ferrier and the orchestra is intimate and responsive, giving the impression of musical conversation rather than mere accompaniment.
The label Alto is known for carefully curated reissues and catalogue recordings, often bringing historically important performances back into circulation with respectful remastering and informative presentation. Collectors and newcomers alike appreciate Alto for its focus on musical substance, high value for money and a catalogue that highlights great artists and interpretations of the past. With this release, Alto once again makes a key chapter of vocal history easily accessible in a compact, attractively presented form.
Art Song
1.264
- Alt 13- Baritone 146- Bass 12- Countertenor 35- Mezzo-Soprano 91- Other Art Song 449- Soprano 394- Tenor 124Other Classic 3.451Symphonic Music 14.527
