Lehár: Freunde, das Leben ist lebenswert (from Giuditta)

Acclaimed Polish-born tenor Piotr Beczala pays tribute to the Austrian singer Richard Tauber (1891–1948), one of the most widely celebrated musical celebrities of his time. Recognized by many as one of the greatest tenors in the world, Piotr is regularly praised for his artistry, immaculate musicianship, keen interpretive intelligence, and flawless, elegant delivery. A perfectly cultivated and stylish singer, he is currently at the pinnacle of his career

A prominent exponent of popular song and operetta, Tauber’s career is closely associated with operetta’s golden age in pre-war Europe

In this recording Beczala shares his deeply honed affinity for this timeless, eternally popular music – a delightful recital of operetta favourites by Lehár, Kálmán, Robert Stolz, Johann Strauss II, among others – and continues the tradition set forth by legendary predecessors like Fritz Wunderlich and Nicolai Gedda

Features special guest appearances from Anna Netrebko (“Lippen schweigen”), The Berlin Comedian Harmonists, Avi Avital, Austrian soprano Daniela Fally and a unique “duet” with Richard Tauber himself, using special 21st century technology and a recorded master from 1934.

Richard Tauber loved his audience and his audience loved him. He bridged the gap between serious and light music and his voice had an instantly recognisable timbre. He sang from the heart and could hold the audence in the palm of his hand.

recorded in Alpha-Line Studio, Budapest, 16-31 January 1996