Aveline Kirana
The global opera scene is abuzz with the arrival of a diverse and compelling slate of new CD and DVD releases, offering enthusiasts a rich array of performances spanning classical repertoire to innovative modern compositions. This week’s highlights include a highly anticipated recording of Donizetti’s bel canto gem "Maria Stuarda" featuring a stellar cast, a unique exploration of Berlin’s musical heritage with mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter, and the much-awaited album debut of acclaimed countertenor John Holiday. These new offerings represent a significant contribution to the operatic catalog, providing both established and emerging artists with platforms to showcase their artistry.
"Maria Stuarda" Captures the Royal Drama
Naxos proudly presents a new recording of Gaetano Donizetti’s dramatic opera "Maria Stuarda," captured live from the Teatro Real in Madrid. This production, led by conductor José Miguel Pérez-Sierra, features a formidable ensemble cast, with Aigul Akhmetshina taking on the role of Queen Elisabetta and Lisette Oropesa delivering a compelling performance as the titular Mary Stuart. The supporting cast includes Ismael Jordi as Lord Riccardo Percy, Roberto Tagliavini as Lord Giorgio Talbot, and Andrzej Filończyk as the Duke of Shrewsbury. The staging is under the direction of acclaimed opera director David McVicar.
OperaWire, in its review of the Teatro Real production, lauded Lisette Oropesa’s portrayal of Maria Stuarda, stating, "Soprano Lisette Oropesa performed the titular role, showcasing her lyric coloratura qualities perfectly." The publication also noted Akhmetshina’s impressive vocal prowess as Queen Elisabetta. This recording arrives at a time when bel canto repertoire continues to gain renewed appreciation, with audiences and critics alike seeking out performances that honor the demanding vocal techniques and dramatic intensity inherent in the style. The release of "Maria Stuarda" by Naxos, a label known for its extensive opera catalog, is expected to be a significant acquisition for collectors of Donizetti’s works. The inclusion of a YouTube trailer offers a visual preview of the production’s grandeur and the singers’ captivating performances.
John Holiday’s Debut Album: "Over My Head"
PENTATONE marks the highly anticipated album debut of the celebrated countertenor John Holiday with the release of "Over My Head." This deeply personal and artistically significant recording is a testament to Holiday’s unique voice and his profound connection to a varied repertoire. The album weaves together traditional spirituals, contemporary compositions, and art songs, creating a program that is unified by themes of faith, love, and expressive individuality.
Holiday is joined by his close collaborator, pianist Kevin Miller, whose sensitive accompaniment is integral to the album’s success. The program features works by esteemed composers such as Hall Johnson, Robert L. Morris, and H. Leslie Adams. Notably, "Over My Head" includes world premiere recordings of new music by Theo Morrison and Carlos Simon, alongside arrangements crafted by Holiday himself. This debut is particularly significant for the countertenor voice, a rare instrument in the classical music landscape, and Holiday’s exploration of such a diverse program promises to introduce his artistry to a wider audience. The album’s thematic depth and the inclusion of new commissions highlight a commitment to expanding the repertoire available for countertenors and pushing the boundaries of vocal performance.
"Trans Requiem": A Groundbreaking Work for Trans Voices
New Amsterdam Records is set to release "Trans Requiem," a pioneering work by Andrew Yee that stands as a groundbreaking first-of-its-kind composition for trans voices, choirs, and orchestra. Commissioned by Trinity Church NYC, this ambitious project seeks to amplify and celebrate the experiences of transgender individuals through the medium of classical music. The recording features Melissa Attebury conducting, with Andrew Yee himself performing alongside soloists Breanna Sinclairé and Katherine Goforth. The ensemble includes NOVUS, the Trinity Choir, and the Trinity Youth Chorus, with production overseen by Melissa Baker and William Brittelle.
The commissioning of "Trans Requiem" by Trinity Church NYC underscores a growing movement within the arts to foster inclusivity and provide platforms for underrepresented voices. The work’s very existence challenges traditional norms within choral and orchestral music, offering a powerful narrative of identity and resilience. This release is poised to have a significant impact on the contemporary classical music scene, potentially inspiring further works that explore similar themes and engage diverse communities. The collaboration between Yee, established musical institutions, and emerging artists signifies a forward-looking approach to composition and performance.
Anne Sofie von Otter Explores Berlin’s Musical Soul in "Berlin! Berlin! Berlin! Kabarett Und Exil"
Mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter, renowned for her versatility and interpretive depth, presents a captivating recital titled "Berlin! Berlin! Berlin! Kabarett Und Exil" through PENTATONE. Accompanied by the Salon Orchestra of the Komische Oper Berlin, under the direction of Adam Benzwi, von Otter delves into a program rich with lyrical beauty, playful exuberance, profound introspection, and infectious operetta melodies. This album offers a sonic journey through the vibrant and often tumultuous musical landscape of Berlin, particularly focusing on the era of cabaret and exile.
The selection of repertoire is likely to reflect the diverse cultural influences that shaped Berlin’s artistic identity. Von Otter’s ability to navigate the nuances of both cabaret and classical music makes her an ideal interpreter for this material. The choice of the Salon Orchestra of the Komische Oper Berlin further enhances the authenticity and spirit of the recording. This release is not only a showcase for von Otter’s celebrated artistry but also a significant contribution to the documentation of a unique and influential period in musical history. The exploration of "Kabarett Und Exil" suggests a program that may touch upon themes of social commentary, personal struggle, and artistic defiance, all delivered with von Otter’s characteristic insight.
Neues Bachisches Collegium Musicum Unveils "The Leipzig Collegium Musicum Vol. 1: Music before Bach"
The Neues Bachisches Collegium Musicum (NBCM), under the artistic direction of Reinhard Goebel, launches a significant new recording series with "The Leipzig Collegium Musicum Vol. 1: Music before Bach," released by Audite. This inaugural volume offers listeners a vivid and immersive glimpse into the rich musical life of Leipzig in the early eighteenth century, preceding the era dominated by Johann Sebastian Bach. The album features a curated selection of works by composers who were active and influential in the region, including Johann Beer, Johann David Heinichen, Georg Melchior Hoffmann, and Georg Philipp Telemann, among others.
This release is particularly valuable for its focus on a less frequently explored period of German musical history. By highlighting composers who paved the way for Bach’s genius, Goebel and the NBCM illuminate the fertile ground from which Baroque music flourished. The series promises to shed light on the intricate musical networks and stylistic developments that characterized Leipzig’s cultural scene. For scholars and enthusiasts of Baroque music, this album represents an important opportunity to discover and re-evaluate the contributions of these significant, yet often overlooked, composers. The meticulous scholarship and interpretive skill of Reinhard Goebel and his ensemble are expected to bring this historical musical tapestry to life with clarity and vibrancy.
The Cleveland Orchestra Presents a Powerful Pairing of 20th-Century Works
The Cleveland Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Franz Welser-Möst, has released a new spatial audio recording that pairs two profound and deeply personal works from the 20th century: Galina Ustvolskaya’s Symphony No. 5, "Amen," and Francis Poulenc’s one-act opera "La voix humaine." This recording, captured live at Severance Music Center on May 23 and 24, 2025, utilizes the immersive capabilities of spatial audio to enhance the listener’s experience of these emotionally charged pieces.
Galina Ustvolskaya’s "Amen" symphony is known for its austere power and spiritual intensity, often described as a stark and unyielding musical statement. Tony F. Sias delivers the spoken text as the reciter in this singular symphony. Contrasting with Ustvolskaya’s spiritual rigor, Francis Poulenc’s "La voix humaine" is an iconic work for soprano and orchestra, based on Jean Cocteau’s play. It portrays a woman’s desperate, final telephone conversation with her lover. Soprano Sarah Aristidou takes on the demanding role of the solitary character in this emotionally raw opera. The pairing of these two works by The Cleveland Orchestra is significant; Ustvolskaya’s symphony, with its intense spiritual and philosophical underpinnings, finds a compelling dialogue with Poulenc’s intensely psychological and human drama. The use of spatial audio aims to place the listener directly within the performance space, further amplifying the emotional impact of both works. This release signifies the orchestra’s commitment to exploring significant 20th-century repertoire with cutting-edge recording technology.
Vivaldi’s Complete Sacred Music: An 11-CD Treasury
Hyperion Records has unveiled a monumental 11-CD set dedicated to Antonio Vivaldi’s complete sacred music. This comprehensive collection comprises no fewer than 50 sacred works, offering an unprecedented opportunity to explore the breadth and depth of Vivaldi’s output in this genre. The set includes many celebrated masterpieces such as "Beatus vir," "Stabat mater," and "Dixit Dominus," alongside a wealth of other brilliant Baroque jewels that are ripe for rediscovery.
Vivaldi, often celebrated for his instrumental concertos, particularly "The Four Seasons," also composed a substantial body of sacred vocal music throughout his career as a priest and maestro di cappella. This extensive collection provides a holistic view of his sacred compositions, revealing the composer’s mastery of choral writing, his gift for melodic invention, and his profound ability to convey spiritual emotion through music. The sheer volume of works included suggests a deep dive into Vivaldi’s liturgical output, potentially challenging preconceived notions about his sacred oeuvre. For lovers of Baroque sacred music, this comprehensive set from Hyperion is an invaluable resource, promising hours of discovery and profound musical engagement. The label’s reputation for high-quality recordings and scholarly presentation ensures this collection will be a definitive statement on Vivaldi’s sacred legacy.
Finzi’s Secular Choral Music Celebrated on Hyperion’s 30th Release
Celebrating its 30th release on the Hyperion label, The Choir of Trinity College Cambridge, under the direction of its newly appointed Director of Music, Steven Grahl, presents a project dedicated to the secular choral music of Gerald Finzi. This recording features three of Finzi’s larger choral works presented in the first recordings of their organ arrangements.
Gerald Finzi (1901-1956) is a composer whose work is cherished for its lyrical beauty, pastoral sensibilities, and deeply English character. While his output is not vast, his choral music, often set to texts by poets such as Thomas Hardy and Robert Bridges, holds a special place in the repertoire. The decision to focus on secular works highlights a less frequently explored facet of Finzi’s compositional output. Presenting these pieces in organ reductions is a practical and effective approach, making them accessible for performance in a wider range of settings and potentially bringing them to the attention of new choirs and audiences. This release marks a significant moment for The Choir of Trinity College Cambridge and Steven Grahl, signaling a strong artistic direction for the ensemble. The commitment to recording Finzi’s secular works underscores the enduring appeal of his music and the importance of preserving and disseminating his choral legacy.
"Through the Centuries – Songs of Madeleine Dring"
Mezzo-soprano Kitty Whately and pianist Julius Drake collaborate on a new album dedicated to the songs of Madeleine Dring, released by Hyperion. Dring, born in 1923 into a theatrical family, demonstrated prodigious musical talent from a young age, entering the Royal College of Music at nine. Her compositional studies were guided by esteemed mentors including Herbert Howells, Gordon Jacob, and Ralph Vaughan Williams.
Madeleine Dring’s songs are often characterized by their wit, charm, and insightful lyricism, drawing inspiration from poetry and everyday life. Her connection to the Royal College of Music and her tutelage under such influential figures place her within a significant lineage of British composers. This album offers a timely exploration of her song repertoire, which, while appreciated by many singers and recitalists, has perhaps not received the widespread recognition it deserves. Kitty Whately’s partnership with Julius Drake, a pianist renowned for his sensitive accompaniment and insightful programming, promises a compelling and nuanced presentation of Dring’s work. The album aims to reintroduce these delightful and often poignant songs to a broader audience, celebrating Dring’s unique voice in 20th-century British music.
Nico Muhly’s "No Resting Place" with The Tallis Scholars
The acclaimed vocal ensemble The Tallis Scholars, under the direction of Peter Phillips, presents a collection of world premiere recordings of works by contemporary composer Nico Muhly. Titled "No Resting Place," this album signifies the beginning of a new artistic collaboration between The Tallis Scholars and Linn Records. The featured pieces have been composed by Muhly for The Tallis Scholars over the past decade, reflecting a sustained and fruitful creative partnership.
Nico Muhly is a prominent figure in contemporary classical music, known for his diverse output across genres and his ability to blend intricate compositional techniques with accessible melodic lines. The collaboration with The Tallis Scholars, an ensemble celebrated for its purity of tone, precision, and profound understanding of vocal polyphony, suggests a fascinating fusion of Muhly’s modern compositional language with the ensemble’s signature stylistic approach. This project is particularly noteworthy as it showcases world premiere recordings, offering audiences their first opportunity to hear these specific works. The long-standing relationship between Muhly and The Tallis Scholars, culminating in this recording, highlights the composer’s engagement with vocal ensembles and his ability to write music that challenges and inspires them. The partnership with Linn Records further solidifies the importance of this release within the contemporary classical music landscape.
"Nordic Sounds": A Journey Through Scandinavian Mythology
The album "Nordic Sounds" embarks on a sonic journey through the mythological worlds of Scandinavia, featuring works by prominent composers from Denmark, Finland, and Sweden. The album showcases the talents of the Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks, led by their esteemed director Peter Dijkstra. The featured composers include the Danish composer Bo Holten, the Finnish composer Jaakko Mäntyjärvi, and the Swedish composer Jan Sandström.
This collection aims to capture the evocative power of Scandinavian folklore and mythology through choral music. Each composer brings a distinct perspective to the theme, drawing inspiration from ancient sagas, epic tales, and the unique cultural heritage of their respective nations. The Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks, known for its virtuosic performances and interpretive depth, is ideally suited to bring these complex and atmospheric works to life. Peter Dijkstra’s leadership ensures a cohesive and compelling presentation of this diverse repertoire. "Nordic Sounds" offers listeners an opportunity to explore the rich tradition of choral music inspired by mythology, showcasing the contemporary voices of Scandinavian composers and the expressive capabilities of one of Europe’s leading choirs. The album serves as a testament to the enduring power of myth and its translation into compelling musical narratives.
Wagner’s "Tristan und Isolde" from Semperoper Dresden
C Major Entertainment releases a significant new recording of Richard Wagner’s monumental opera "Tristan und Isolde," captured from the Semperoper Dresden. The production is led by the renowned conductor Christian Thielemann, with a cast that includes Klaus Florian Vogt as Tristan, Camilla Nylund as Isolde, Georg Zeppenfeld as King Marke, Martin Gantner as Kurwenal, and Tanja Ariane Baumgartner as Brangäne. The staging is directed by Marco Arturo Marelli.
Wagner’s "Tristan und Isolde" is considered one of the pinnacles of operatic literature, a work that pushed the boundaries of harmony and dramatic expression, profoundly influencing subsequent musical developments. This new release from C Major Entertainment features a conductor and orchestra with a deep affinity for Wagner’s music, and a cast that represents some of the leading interpreters of these demanding roles. Klaus Florian Vogt, in particular, has gained international acclaim for his unique vocal approach to Wagnerian tenor roles, offering a distinct perspective on Tristan. Camilla Nylund is a highly respected soprano known for her command of challenging Wagnerian heroines. The Semperoper Dresden, with its rich operatic history, provides a prestigious backdrop for this production. The release of this recording offers operatic aficionados a chance to experience a significant interpretation of a cornerstone of the repertoire, further enriched by the visual dimension of a fully staged production. The inclusion of a YouTube trailer provides a glimpse into the visual and dramatic aspects of this significant operatic event.
