Andreas Scholl – O Solitude | Songs and Arias by Henry Purcell (CD)

UPC: 0028947822622 

MPN: 478 2262 

Brand Name: DECCA

Overview

For the first time on record, world-renowned countertenor Andreas Scholl presents a complete program devoted to the genius of Henry Purcell (1659–1695), England’s greatest Baroque composer. Featuring collaborations with Accademia Bizantina under the direction of Stefano Montanari, this acclaimed album explores Purcell’s timeless beauty through airs, arias, and instrumental works.

Highlights include the haunting Cold Song (What power art thou?) from King Arthur, the deeply moving When I am laid in earth (Dido’s Lament) from Dido and Aeneas, and the title track O solitude, my sweetest choice. Scholl is joined by fellow countertenor Christophe Dumaux for memorable duets such as Sound the trumpet.

Product Features

• Format: CD, Stereo
• Total Timing: 76:42 minutes
• Release Year: 2010
• Label: DECCA (Universal Music Group)
• Genre: Classical, Baroque, Vocal, Opera Arias
• Ensemble: Accademia Bizantina
• Conductor: Stefano Montanari

Interesting Facts

• This album marked Andreas Scholl’s first full Purcell recording, uniting his unique artistry with historically informed performance.
• Purcell’s music bridges the English madrigal tradition with the grandeur of Italian and French Baroque styles.
• The duet Sound the trumpet remains one of Purcell’s most joyful creations, and Scholl’s pairing with Dumaux highlights the expressive potential of the countertenor voice.
• The program balances instrumental pieces like the Chacony and Pavan with sublime vocal works, making it an ideal introduction to Purcell’s world.
• The title aria O solitude sets a text by the French poet Antoine Girard de Saint-Amant, reflecting Purcell’s ability to blend poetry and music in profound intimacy.

Track Listing (Highlights)

1. If music be the food of love (2:16)
2. Sound the trumpet (with Christophe Dumaux) (3:00)
3. Strike the viol (4:19)
4. Fairest isle (4:55)
5. What power art thou (Cold Song) (3:10)
6. When I am laid in earth (Dido’s Lament) (4:05)
7. Music for a while (4:14)
8. O solitude, my sweetest choice (5:32)
9. Now that the sun hath veiled his light (Evening Hymn on a Ground) (4:34)

Publishers

• ℗ 2010 Decca Music Group Limited
• © 2010 Decca Music Group Limited
• Made in the EU

We’d love to hear your review—share your impressions of Scholl’s Purcell interpretations and let other listeners discover this landmark Baroque recital.

Hashtags

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