Kate Royal: Midsummer Night

Kate Royal, Thomas Allen, Andrew Staples / Orchestra of the English National Opera, Edward Gardner

This second release by British soprano Kate Royal take a journey into more twentieth century operatic repertoire. Included on this disc are works by Britten, Stravinsky, Dvorak, Barber and Carlisle Floyd. The arias are beautifully sung, especially Dvorak's 'Song to the Moon'. The title is a bit misleading is that one assumes that with three Britten arias on the disc, there would be something from Britten's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', but there is so little from that opera that can be excerpted properly. One criticism is with the Carlisle Floyd aria from Susannah. She sings 'The Trees on the Mountains' wonderfully, and one only wonders why she didn't include the stunning aria 'Ain't it a Pretty Night' from the same opera. It would have suited her voice perfectly. This disc beathes new like into some forgotten gems, and re-invents some of the standards. A must-have for any vocal fan! Pre-order your copy before the May 26th release date!!!
Kate Royal’s second recording for EMI Classics is Midsummer Night, an atmospheric recital collection focusing on female characters in 20th century opera and operetta, reflecting their pain and ecstasy in love. The programme ranges from well known turn-of-the-century works by Dvořák (Song to the Moon from Rusalka) and Lehár (Vilja from The Merry Widow) to Midsummer Night, from the English composer William Alwyn’s opera Miss Julie. Edward Gardner conducts the English National Opera Orchestra with guest appearances by Thomas Allen, Andrew Staples and the Crouch End Festival Chorus.

Price: $21.98

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