John McCormack (tenor), Alexander Schmidt (violin), Alfred Lennartz (cello), Edwin Schneider (piano), Bruno Reibold (celesta), Clement Barone (flute), Francis Lapitino (harp), Bruno Reibold (piano)

Studio orchestra, Rosario Bourdon

New Restorations by Ward Marston

John McCormack’s remarkable versatility is demonstrated here in prime examples of his art. His rendition of Handel’s Come, My Beloved is stylish and his virtuoso technique is on show in Lotti’s ornate Pur dicesti. He does supreme justice to Kramer’s masterly and impressionistic Swans, and this version of The Londonderry Air is his first and most poetic recording of one of the world’s most familiar folk songs. The three Brahms songs are of immense historical and musical value as McCormack received training from one of Brahms’ favourite singers, Sir George Henschel. Including two previously unreleased tracks and numerous popular songs of the day, this programme is rich and varied.