Wagner by Arrangement: Operatic Highlights, Vol. 3

Featuring

Ben Woodward
Catharine Woodward
Keel Watson
Holden Madagame
Philip Modinos
Edwin Kaye

Regents Opera Ensemble
Richard Wagner

Did you know?

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Composer's Artistic Vision

Richard Wagner's 'Gesamtkunstwerke' or 'total works of art for the stage' are characterized by enormous voices, orchestras, and an all-consuming musical nature.

Interpretation

The Regents Opera Ensemble's arrangement of Wagner for eighteen players aims to provide an intimate, soloistic, and illuminating insight into the works, rather than merely reducing them.

Recording & Production

This album's motivation is to showcase three singers, Catharine Woodward, Philip Modinos, and Keel Watson, whom Ben Woodward discovered while planning a new Ring cycle for Regents Opera.

Performer Biography

Holden Madagame, an American tenor on this album, is a trans activist who advocates for trans-identified artists in opera and classical music.

Performer Biography

Catharine Woodward, a British dramatic soprano on this album, has had an unconventional career path, including working at BBC Radio 1 and performing in a cabaret act, before moving into dramatic repertoire.

Compositional Technique

Arranging Wagner's music for smaller ensembles is challenging due to his precise harmonies and carefully chosen orchestral colors for specific effects.