WAO Playlist Series XVII Curated by Pia Harris
This week's playlist is curated by The Standing Room's Pia Harris. Stream and read about Pia's playlist which includes works by Bellini, Strauss and Wagner.
Casta Diva by Bellini performed by Maria Callas
This aria inspired me to get serious about becoming an opera singer. Callas was such an incredible artist, you only have to listen to one bar and you can feel and hear the intention and emotion in the sound and the text.
Donde Lieta Usci by Puccini performed by Angela Gheorghiu
Again this piece really inspired me to get serious about opera. I really love how Angela Gheorghiu modernised this aria and made it fresh and relevant to now.
Sempre Libera by Verdi performed by Beverly Sills
One of my favourite arias and singers, Beverly’s bright full warm tone and clear coloratura are very impressive and inspire me.
Der Engel by Wagner performed by Jesse Norman
Incredible Jessye Norman singing Wesendonck lieder, I decided to sing include this piece for my final Masters recital at the Royal College of Music in London.
Cäcilie - Opus 27 by Strauss performed by Renee Fleming
My favourite song in the whole repertory, it makes me happy and love the sweeping phrases.
The Presentation of the Rose by Strauss performed by Diana Damrau and Joyce DiDonato
This is such an incredible piece of music. I’m looking forward to performing this sometime in the future.
Marriage of Figaro overture by Mozart
I love Mozart, there is such a cheekiness to his music at times and it just makes me want to dance!
Canzone del Salice by Verdi performed by Shirley Verrett
I sang this aria for many of my early auditions and it got me through into my Masters at the Royal College of Music and my contracts at Opera Holland Park
Liebestod by Wagner performed by Shirley Verrett
One of my favourite arias I first heard it at an amazing tribute to the fantastic Shirley Verrett in New York City.
Porgi Amor by Mozart performed by Renee Fleming
When I was 16 I heard Renee Fleming singing this in the met production and was blown away by the power and beauty of her voice.
