Amy Beach: Chanson D'Amour
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Music Reviews of Amy Beach: Chanson D'Amour
Music Review: A disappointing recording from a splendid singer
Rating: 2 Stars
After reading the rather rude review of this CD, I was ready to rush to Emma Kirkby's defence, but I thought maybe I should listen to it first before passing judgement. Unfortunately I must conclude that this isn't a good CD for fans of Kirkby or Beach. Emma Kirkby's repertoire covers a huge section of musical history from the 12th to the 18th century, but this is the first recording I have ever heard where she sings later music. So many fans and critics have suggested that she sing something more modern, and it would appear that this is her answer to them. The earlier virtues of clarity and control counted for little with the romantics, and her voice seems so out of place here. Listen to her singing Bach, Dowland, Monteverdi, De Machaut or Handel, but don't listen to this CD. But everyone makes mistakes sometimes - even the Eagles had the Long Run.Music Review: Amy Beach: Chanson d'Amour
Rating: 3 Stars
For the fundamental value of having a CD of Amy Beach solo vocal and chamber pieces, this is an excellent purchase. The instrumentalists are excellent musicians who offer beauty and clarity to the individual lines. Emma Kirkby is, however, a huge disappointment. Her voice is hardly suited to any type of music (an early music specialist that would gain hugely from a little coaching from Barbara Bonney for technique). In these pieces, her small, strident voice is remarkably mismatched. It is amazing that producers would consider her for such pieces. Her only redeeming moments are found in the final three pieces. Despite the soprano, this is a valuable CD.Music Review: One of my favourite CDs
Rating: 5 Stars
I'm a big fan of Emma Kirkby's "usual" early music repertoire, and bought this after listening to the samples. It really is quite beautiful and incredibly dramatic.
I don't really understand the criticisms of other reviewers - yes, she sings it differently to how most singers do, but I really prefer it her way - her voice is pure and vibrant, and it's not so over-stated as with other recordings of Beach.
In short, I love it. Buy it and as long as you're prepared for her to do it her way, you'll love it.