Description

Dawn Upshaw With Gilbert Kalish - Voices Of Light

Product Information

UPC: 075597981223
Label: Nonesuch
Catalog Number: 7559-79812-2
Format: Audio CD, Album
Country: Europe
Genre: Classical

Overview

Voices of Light is a luminous and emotionally resonant album featuring the celebrated American soprano Dawn Upshaw, joined by acclaimed pianist Gilbert Kalish. Released by Nonesuch Records, this recording brings together a thoughtfully curated program of vocal works by Olivier Messiaen, Claude Debussy, Osvaldo Golijov, and Gabriel Fauré, spanning from the late Romantic era to contemporary classical music. The album begins with the mystical and spiritual music of Messiaen, whose compositions are known for their transcendental qualities and complex harmonic language. Upshaw captures the sacred intensity and otherworldly beauty of his works with clarity and conviction, revealing her mastery of French vocal repertoire and her gift for emotional storytelling.

Debussy’s impressionistic songs follow, evoking dreamy, ephemeral soundscapes filled with rich colors and subtle nuances. Upshaw’s voice floats effortlessly through Debussy’s musical textures, guided by Kalish’s sensitive and evocative accompaniment, creating moments of breathtaking intimacy. Contemporary composer Osvaldo Golijov adds a distinctive modern voice to the program. His music, often infused with multicultural influences, draws on deep emotion and vivid imagery. Upshaw, a frequent interpreter of Golijov’s work, brings a heartfelt immediacy to his songs, demonstrating her connection to contemporary music and its evolving language. The program concludes with selections by Gabriel Fauré, whose chansons embody lyricism and refined elegance. Here, Upshaw delivers performances that are both delicate and expressive, highlighting the poetic sensitivity of Fauré’s compositions. Throughout the album, the artistic synergy between Upshaw and Kalish is undeniable. Their musical partnership breathes life into each piece, offering interpretations that are as intellectually engaging as they are emotionally moving. Voices of Light is not merely a recital album—it is a journey through some of the most profound and beautiful expressions in vocal music, brought to life by two extraordinary artists at the height of their powers.

Product Features

Format: Audio CD, Album
Label: Nonesuch
Catalog Number: 7559-79812-2
Genre: Classical
Artists: Dawn Upshaw (soprano), Gilbert Kalish (piano)

Interesting Facts

Artistic Recognition: Dawn Upshaw is a multiple Grammy Award winner and a MacArthur Fellowship recipient, known for her exceptional interpretations of both classical and contemporary repertoire.
Compositional Diversity: The album features works by composers who have significantly influenced 20th and 21st-century classical music, demonstrating Upshaw's commitment to musical innovation.
Collaborative Excellence: Gilbert Kalish is a renowned pianist known for his sensitive accompaniment and deep understanding of contemporary musical styles.