The host with a favorite recording.
A celebration of Franz Schubert’s 224th birthday. This week, Oliver shares six of his favorite Lieder (German for art songs) by Schubert, including a scary ballad about a dwarf, a touching episode from Greek mythology, and an old-fashioned sing-along.
LISTENING TIP: Art song is all about the poetry. If we were at a concert of these songs, you would be handed a program with the texts and translations. Follow along with Richard Wigmore’s wonderful translations (linked below) for maximum enjoyment.
Playlist
Song No. 1: A clear illustration of form
“Kennst du das Land,” D 321
Barbara Bonney, soprano
Geoffrey Parsons, piano
Click HERE for song text and translation.
Song No. 2: A spooky story told with lusty detail
“Der Zwerg,” D 771
Ian Bostridge, tenor
Julius Drake, piano
Click HERE for song text and translation.
Song No. 3: A great singing actor fully committed to their interpretation
“Memnon,” D 541
Dame Janet Baker, mezzo-soprano
Geoffrey Parsons, piano
Click HERE for song text and translation.
Song No. 4: Astounding vocalism for its own sake
“Auflösung,” D 807
Jessye Norman, soprano
Phillip Moll, piano
Click HERE for song text and translation.
Song No. 5: A heartbroken composer breaks your heart
“Nacht und Träume,” D 827
Christoph Prégardien, tenor
Michael Gees, piano
Click HERE for song text and translation.
Song No. 6: Making music with friends is the best medicine
“An den Mond,” D 259
Brigitte Fassbaender, mezzo-soprano
Cord Garben, piano
Click HERE for song text and translation.
This episode of Listening to Singers will be available for listening on-demand until February 13.