PROGRAMME NOTES
For the Fellowship of Trinity College of Music London
ACCOMPAINED BY :
JEREMIAH CHRISTOPHER
Time (In Minutes)
1 Agitata Da Dua Venti
Antonio Vivaldi
4:50
2 Come Scoglio
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
5:20
EMMARGORP
3 Der Holle Rache
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
2:50
4 Tacea la notte placida
Giuseppe Verdi
5:20
5 Tu che le vanità
Giuseppe Verdi
8:15
6 Obéissons quand la voix appelle
Jules Massenet
5:50
7 Kennst du das Land
Ambroise Thomas
6:20
8 To This We've Come
Gian Carlo Menotti
6:40
Total Duration : 45:25
Lyrics and Translation
Italian English
Shaken by two winds,
Agitata da due venti,
the wave quivers in troubled sea
freme l'onda in mar turbato
and the frightened steersman
e 'l nocchiero spaventato
already expects to be wrecked.
già s'aspetta a naufragar.
Between duty and love
Dal dovere da l'amore
is fighting my heart,
combattuto questo core
it doesn't resist and seems to give
non resiste e par che ceda
in
e incominci a desperar.
and begins to despair.
Aria: "Agitata da due venti"
Composer: Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741)
Opera: "Griselda"
Antonio Vivaldi, the renowned Baroque composer, is widely
celebrated for his contributions to instrumental music,
particularly his concertos and violin compositions. However,
Vivaldi was also a prolific composer of operatic works. "Agitata
da due venti" is a captivating aria from his opera "Griselda," and
it exemplifies Vivaldi's talent for crafting dramatic and virtuosic
vocal music.
"Griselda" is an opera in three acts composed by Vivaldi with a
libretto by Carlo Goldoni, based on a story from Giovanni
Boccaccio's "Decameron." The opera premiered in 1735 and is
known for its compelling characters and intricate plot, which
explores themes of love, fidelity, and forgiveness.
"Agitata da due venti" is a soprano aria of great dramatic
intensity and vocal virtuosity. Vivaldi's composition begins with
a tempestuous orchestral introduction that sets the scene for
Griselda's inner turmoil. The vocal line is characterised by rapid
and virtuosic coloratura passages that reflect the agitation of the
character's emotions. The orchestra, typical of Vivaldi's style, is
dynamic and expressive, with lively strings and winds that
mirror Griselda's emotional turbulence.
Lyrics and Translation
Italian English
Come scoglio, immota resta Like a rock, I stand immobile
Contra i venti e la tempesta! against the winds and the storm!
Cosi ognor quest’alma e forte My soul is strong
nella fede, e nell’amor. In faith and in love.
Con noi nacque quella face A light is born inside me
che ci piace, e ci consola, that gives pleasure and comfort,
e potra la morte sola, and only death alone
far che cangi affetto il cor. can change the way I feel.
Rispettate, anime ingrate, Respect, ungrateful creature!
questo esempio di costanza, I am an example of loyalty,
e una barbera speranza and not even your barbaric hope
non vi renda audaci ancor. can make you bold.
Aria: Come scoglio
Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Opera: Così fan tutte
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) is widely regarded as
one of the greatest composers in the history of Western classical
music. "Così fan tutte" represents one of his collaborations with
librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte, following the successes of "The
Marriage of Figaro" and "Don Giovanni." The opera's title,
which translates to "Women are like that," hints at its
exploration of the fickleness of human emotions and
relationships.
"Come scoglio" is a stunning aria from Wolfgang Amadeus
Mozart's opera "Così fan tutte." This opera is known for its wit,
humor, and exploration of the complexities of human
relationships. "Come scoglio" is a notable highlight of the opera,
showcasing Mozart's exceptional musical craftsmanship and his
ability to convey the emotional depth of the characters.
"Come scoglio" is a vocal tour de force, displaying Mozart's
remarkable ability to blend vocal virtuosity with emotional
depth. The aria's title, which means "Like a rock," reflects
Fiordiligi's steadfast determination to remain faithful to her
lover, despite the tempting advances of Guglielmo. The music is
characterized by its lively tempo, dramatic coloratura passages,
and intricate vocal ornamentation, demanding exceptional skill
from the soprano who performs it.
Lyrics and Translation
German English
Der hölle rache kocht in meinem herzen, The vengeance of hell boils in my heart,
Tod und verzweiflung flammet um mich Death and despair flame about me!
her! If Sarastro does not through you feel
Fühlt nicht durch dich Sarastro The pain of death,
Todesschmerzen, Then you will be my daughter
So bist du meine tochter nimmermehr. nevermore.
Verstossen sei auf ewig, Disowned may you be forever,
Verlassen sei auf ewig, Abandoned may you be forever,
Zertrümmert sei'n auf ewig Destroyed be forever
Alle bande der natur All the bonds of nature,
Wenn nicht durch dich! If not through you
Sarastro wird erblassen! Sarastro becomes pale! (as death)
Hört, Rachegötter, Hear, Gods of Revenge,
Hört der mutter schwur! Hear a mother's oath!
Aria: Queen of the Night
Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Opera: The Magic Flute
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) was a prolific and
influential composer of the Classical era. "The Magic Flute" was
composed towards the end of his life, and it exemplifies his
ability to create both enchanting melodies and complex, multi-
layered compositions.
The "Queen of the Night Aria" is one of the most iconic and
thrilling pieces in all of opera, composed by Wolfgang Amadeus
Mozart for his opera "The Magic Flute" (Die Zauberflöte).
Premiering in 1791, "The Magic Flute" is a fantastical and
allegorical opera that combines comedy, magic, and Masonic
symbolism. The "Queen of the Night Aria" stands as a showcase
of Mozart's musical genius and remains one of the most famous
arias in the operatic repertoire.
The "Queen of the Night Aria" is known for its vocal
pyrotechnics and dramatic intensity. It features a coloratura
soprano reaching the highest reaches of her range, creating a
sense of breathtaking virtuosity. The aria's rapid runs and high
F6 note (known as the "F6") challenge even the most skilled
sopranos, adding to its mystique.The music itself is a whirlwind
of emotion, capturing the Queen's anger, desperation, and fierce
determination. Mozart's orchestration, with its rapid string
accompaniment and ominous brass, intensifies the aria's drama.
Lyrics and Translation
Italian English
Tacea la notte placida The placid and beautiful night was silent,
E bella in ciel sereno, With a clear sky above,
E dolente il mio cor And my heart was sorrowful,
Coll'alma in pena e in speme. Full of pain and hope.
Ahi! perchè, perchè, signor, Ah! Why, why, my lord,
Ah! tu non m'ami più? Ah! Do you no longer love me?
Io t'amo, e tu d'amor I love you, and you, of love,
Perduto hai il seno! Have lost all feeling!
Sulla pia, sulla funesta On the sacred, on the deadly
Ombra dei dubbi miei Shadow of my doubts
Pallida è scesa la morte Death has descended palely
Nei fior degli anni suoi. Upon the flowers of his years.
Miserere di me! Signor, Have mercy on me! My lord,
Pietà di me! Have pity on me!
Ei l'udia con pietà, He heard me with compassion,
Del pianto mio l'accento. The sound of my weeping.
Oh! s'ei n'è scordato ancor, Oh! If he has forgotten it,
Reo, vil d'un affetto. Wicked, unworthy of affection.
Aria: "Tacea la notte placida"
Composer: Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901)
Opera: "Il Trovatore"
Giuseppe Verdi, the renowned Italian composer, is celebrated for
his contributions to the world of opera. Among his many
masterpieces, "Il Trovatore" stands as a pinnacle of his creative
genius. Within this opera, "Tacea la notte placida" is a notable
aria that showcases Verdi's ability to craft emotionally charged
and melodically rich music.
"Il Trovatore" is a dramatic opera in four acts with a libretto by
Salvadore Cammarano, based on Antonio García Gutiérrez's
Spanish play "El trovador." The opera is set in 15th-century
Spain and is a tale of love, revenge, and fate, featuring complex
characters and a riveting plot.
"Tacea la notte placida" is a soprano aria of great emotional
depth and vocal virtuosity. Verdi's composition opens with a
hauntingly beautiful melody that reflects the calm night
described in the aria's title. The music is characterized by its
lyrical and melancholic qualities, emphasizing Leonora's
introspective mood. As the aria progresses, the music becomes
more turbulent, mirroring Leonora's inner turmoil. Her vocal
line soars with passion and intensity as she expresses her longing
for the troubadour Manrico.
Lyrics and Translation
Italian English
You, who are familiar with
The vanities of the world, its glory and its
Tu che le vanità conosci
dreams,
Del mondo e il vanto e il sogno
And how many are the splendors and
E quante sien le pompe e gl'inganni
deceptions
Che l'arti umane han saputo allettar
That human arts have been able to
Ora con me rimira
allure,
A che son ridotte
Now look with me
In poter d'un infedele.
At what they have been reduced to
In the power of an unfaithful one.
Di forza e di destrezza
Fia che t'arresti ancor
By strength and by cunning,
Il cor già si diletta
You will be stopped still.
Di farti il male ancor.
My heart takes pleasure
Di farti il male ancor.
In harming you again.
In harming you again.
Ciel! quanto è grande un affanno
Un rimorso in un cor!
Heaven! How great is a distress,
A remorse in a heart!
Aria: "Tu che le vanità"
Composer: Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901)
Opera: "Don Carlo"
Giuseppe Verdi, one of the most celebrated Italian composers of
the 19th century, is renowned for his remarkable contributions
to the world of opera. His operas are known for their emotional
depth, exquisite melodies, and powerful storytelling.
"Don Carlo" is an Italian grand opera in five acts, with a libretto
by Joseph Méry and Camille du Locle, based on the dramatic
play "Don Carlos, Infant von Spanien" by Friedrich Schiller. The
opera explores themes of love, politics, and power in 16th-
century Spain. "Tu che le vanità" is an aria from Act IV, sung by
Princess Eboli, a complex character whose unrequited love and
jealousy drive much of the opera's intrigue.
"Tu che le vanità" demands both vocal prowess and emotional
depth. Verdi's composition weaves a tapestry of rich harmonies
and intricate melodies that perfectly capture Eboli's inner
conflict. The aria begins with a mournful and introspective tone,
as Eboli contemplates her past mistakes. However, it gradually
builds in intensity, culminating in a passionate outpouring of
emotion as she confronts her feelings for Don Carlo. The vocal
lines are punctuated by dramatic orchestral interludes that
heighten the emotional impact of the aria.
Lyrics and Translation
French English
Obey when their voices are calling,
Obéissons quand leur voix appelle,
beckoning us to tender loves,
aux tendres amours,
always, always, always;
toujours, toujours, toujours,
as long as you are beautiful,
tant que vous êtes belle,
use up your days without counting them, all of your
usez sans les compter vos jours, tous vos jours!
days!
Profitons bien de la jeunesse,
Let's take advantage of youth,
des jours qu'amène le printemps;
days that spring provides;
aimons, rions, chantons sans cesse,
let's love, laugh, and sing without stopping,
nous n'avons encor que vingt ans!
while we're still only twenty!
Let's take full advantage of our youth!
Profitons bien de la jeunesse!
Profitons bien de la jeunesse,
Let's take full advantage of our youth,
aimons, rions, chantons sans cesse,
let's love, laugh, and sing without stopping
nous n'avons encor que vingt ans! Ah! Ah!
while we're still only twenty! Ha! Ha!
Profitons bien de la jeunesse!
Let's take full advantage of our youth!
Rions! Ah! Ah!
Let's laugh! Ha! Ha!
Le cœur, hélas! le plus fidèle,
Even the most faithful heart, alas,
oublie en un jour l'amour, l'amour,
forgets love in a day, love,
et la jeunesse ouvrant son aile a disparu
and youth, spreading its wings to fly away,
sans retour, sans retour.
disappears, never to return, never to return.
Profitons bien de la jeunesse,
Let's take full advantage of our youth,
bien courte, helas ! est le printemps!
the springtime season, alas, is very short!
Aimons, chantons, rions sans cesse,
Let's love, sing, and laugh without stopping,
nous n'aurons pas toujours vingt ans!
we won't be twenty forever!
Profitons bien de la jeunesse!
Let's take full advantage of our youth!
Profitons bien de la jeunesse!
Let's take full advantage of our youth!
Aimons, chantons, rions sans cesse,
Let's love, sing, and laugh without stopping.
profitons bien de nos vingt ans! Ah! Ah!
Let's take advantage of being twenty! Ha! Ha!
Profitons bien de la jeunesse!
Let's take full advantage of our youth!
Rions! Ah! Ah!
Let's laugh! Ha! Ha!
Aria: Obéissons quand la voix appelle
Composer: Jules Massenet
Opera: Manon
Jules Massenet (1842-1912) was a prominent French composer of
the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was known for his
contributions to French opera, and "Manon" stands as one of his
most celebrated works. The opera beautifully captures the spirit
of the Belle Époque and the elegance of 18th-century France.
"Obeissons quand la voix appelle" is an enchanting aria from Act
2 of the famous French opera "Manon" composed by Jules
Massenet. Premiering in 1884, "Manon" is based on the 1731
novel "L'Histoire du Chevalier des Grieux et de Manon Lescaut"
by Abbé Prévost. Manon, the young and impulsive heroine,
finds herself at a crossroads, torn between her love for Chevalier
des Grieux and the allure of a life of luxury offered by the
wealthy Brétigny.
This aria is a prime example of Massenet's skill in creating
emotionally charged and melodic operatic compositions. It
features a lyrical and sensuous melody that reflects the character
of Manon herself. Manon's voice soars as she contemplates her
choices, adding depth to her inner turmoil. Lyrically, the aria
expresses Manon's inner conflict as she weighs the promises of
wealth and luxury against the genuine love she feels for
Chevalier des Grieux.
Lyrics and Translation
German English
Kennst du das Land, wo die Zitronen blühn,
Do you know the land where the lemon-trees grow,
Im dunklen Laub die Goldorangen glühn,
In darkened leaves the gold-oranges glow,
Ein sanfter Wind vom blauen Himmel weht,
A soft wind blows from the pure blue sky,
Die Myrte still und hoch der Lorbeer steht?
The myrtle stands mute, and the bay tree high?
Kennst du es wohl?
Do you know it well?
Dahin, dahin
It’s there I’d be gone,
Möcht ich mit dir, o mein Geliebter, ziehn!
To be there with you, O, my beloved one!
Kennst du das Haus? Auf Säulen ruht sein
Do you know the house? It has columns and beams,
Dach.
There are glittering rooms, the hallway gleams,
Es glänzt der Saal, es schimmert das Gemach,
Are those figures of marble looking at me?
Und Marmorbilder stehn und sehn mich an:
What have they done, child of misery?
Was hat man dir, du armes Kind, getan?-
Do you know it well?
Kennst du es wohl?
It’s there I’d be gone,
Dahin, dahin
To be there, with you, O my true guardian!
Möcht ich mit dir, o mein Beschützer, ziehn!
Do you know the clouded mountain mass?
Kennst du den Berg und seinen Wolkensteg?
The mule picks its way through the misted pass,
Das Maultier sucht im Nebel seinen Weg.
And dragons in caves raise their ancient brood,
In Höhlen wohnt der Drachen alte Brut.
And the cliffs are polished, smooth, by the flood;
Es stürzt der Fels und über ihn die Flut.
Do you know it well?
Kennst du ihn wohl?
It’s there I would be gone!
Dahin, dahin
It’s there our way leads!
Geht unser Weg.
Father, we must go o
O Vater, lass uns ziehn!
Aria: Kennst du das Land
Composer: Ambroise Thomas
Opera: Mignon
Ambroise Thomas (1811-1896) was a prominent French
composer of the 19th century, known for his contributions to
French opera. "Mignon" is considered one of his masterpieces,
and it reflects the Romantic era's fascination with themes of
individuality, exoticism, and the exploration of different cultures.
"Kennst du das Land" is a famous aria from the opera "Mignon"
composed by Ambroise Thomas. The opera, based on Johann
Wolfgang von Goethe's novel "Wilhelm Meister's
Apprenticeship," premiered in 1866 at the Opéra-Comique in
Paris. This aria is one of the most cherished and enduring pieces
in the French operatic repertoire.
"Kennst du das Land" is a lyrical and introspective aria that
showcases Ambroise Thomas's gift for crafting emotionally
resonant melodies. The aria is known for its simplicity and
heartfelt expression. The orchestration is understated, allowing
Mignon's voice to shine as she sings of the "land" she longs for.
The aria's structure, with its repeated question "Kennst du das
Land?" (Do you know the land?), adds an element of
introspection and uncertainty to Mignon's character.
Aria: To This We've Come
Composer: Gian Carlo Menotti
Opera: The Consul
Gian Carlo Menotti (1911-2007) was an Italian-American
composer and librettist who made significant contributions to
20th-century opera. "The Consul" was composed during the
post-World War II period, when the world was grappling with
the social and political consequences of the war, including the
plight of refugees and the impact of authoritarian regimes.
"To This We've Come" is a poignant and powerful aria from
Gian Carlo Menotti's opera "The Consul." This opera, with a
libretto and music composed by Menotti himself, premiered in
1950 and quickly gained recognition for its exploration of
political oppression. "To This We've Come" is a standout
moment within the opera, offering a glimpse into the
protagonist's emotional turmoil and her desperate circumstances.
"To This We've Come" is a heart-wrenching aria that
underscores Menotti's gift for expressing deep emotions through
music. The aria is characterized by its hauntingly beautiful
melody and emotionally charged lyrics. The orchestration is
both evocative and atmospheric, creating a sense of foreboding
and despair.
