The Dutch contralto, Aafje Heynis, had a dark, rich, altogether unique voice and the story of her discovery in a Holland recovering from the ravages of World War II, told in the booklet notes, is heart-warming indeed… as is this collection put together from several of her recordings. Seven Bach and six Handel arias make up this wonderful recital.
JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH
Bist du bei mir, BWV 508: Aria
Pierre Polla, organ
Cantata, BWV 108: Was mein Herz
St Matthew Passion: Erbarme dich*
Christmas Oratorio: Bereite dich, Zion
St John Passion: Es ist vollbracht
Wolfgang Schneider, violin*
Vienna Symphony Orchestra
Hans Gillesberger
Ave Maria from Prelude No.1, BWV 846
Pro Musica Choir
Lex Karsemeijer
Meindert Boekel, organ
Christmas Oratorio: Schlafe, mein Liebster, geniesse der Ruh
GEORGE FRIDERIC HANDEL
Dank sei dir
Pierre Polla, organ
Judas Maccabaeus: Father of Heaven
Samson: Return, O God of hosts
Vienna Symphony Orchestra
Hans Gillesberger
Dixit Dominus: Virgam virtutis tuae
Amsterdam Chamber Orchestra
Marinus Voorberg
Messiah: O thou that tellest good tidings to Zion
Messiah: He was despised
Vienna Symphony Orchestra
Hans Gillesberger
Aafje Heynis, contralto