ROBERT SCHUMANN (1810-1856): Scenes from Goethe's Faust, WoO 3.

Description: Written in pieces over the period 1844-53, this large-scale oratorio was never performed in Schumann's lifetime. The earlier-composed sections are lyrical, the later more dramatic, possibly under the influence of Wagner's music during the decade it took to complete the work. Some of the composer's best music is in this journey from human failing to divine redemption and not very many versions of it are otherwise available right now (one, exactly) if you don't want to buy a massive Schumann anniversary box-set. 2 CDs. Texts and translations available on-line. Christiane Libor, Iwona Hossa (sopranos), Ewa Marciniec, Anna Lubanska (altos), Daniel Kirch (tenor), Jaakko Kortkangas (baritone), Andrew Gangestad (bass), Warsaw Boys' Choir, Warsaw Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra; Antoni Wit.