Customer Reviews

The Very Best of Barbara Hendricks

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I have been a fan of Hendricks for 20 years (frightening that time flies like that), and appreciate her unique vocal qualities as well as her intense devotion to her art.

This round-up of her best doesn't have ALL of her best....one couldn't fit it on two CD's, but there is plenty here to whet the appetite. For the first time she does some Verdi (Butterfly), Catalani (La Wally) and Cilea (Io son lumile) arias that make me want to hear her do the works in their entirety. That will not happen because she will be 60 soon, and is not likely to take on new roles.

Her classic stuff, such as the Gounod and Schubert Ave Maria's, as well as a group of Negro spirituals, are sublime. Then there are the lieder/songs by the likes of Schubert, Debussy, Faure, Duparc, etc. She is a renowned recitalist - and has always invested her soul in these poignant interpretations. They are arresting, thought-provoking and transporting.....even haunting.

If you don't know her art, this album will convert you. If you are a fan, this album has stuff that she has not done - and which turn out to be mouth-watering teasers.....

Highly recommended.....

I have heard her over Classical Favorites and
now i have the CD.