STRONG VOICES OF WOMEN

“Voices of Women” is the second CD release of mezzo-soprano Bettina Smith and pianist Einar Rottingen as a duo. Featured this time are Fartein Valen, Jostein Stalheim and Ketil Hvoslef, all composers from Western Norway.

The recording highlights women’s voices in world literature: Goethe’s female characters “Mignon” and “Suleika”, Shakespeare’s “Ophelia” from “Hamlet”, and the gospel according to Mary Magdalene. The musicians wish this time to place their focus on contemporary Norwegian music composed for voice and piano, and two of the works were written especially for them.

Mezzo-soprano Bettina Smith has had a distinguished international career. As a student of both Elly Ameling and Elisabeth Schwartzkopf, she has developed a special interest in classical song and chamber music. In addition to her performance career, Bettina Smith is Associate Professor of Singing at the University of Stavanger, Norway.

Pianist Einar Rottingen is Professor of Music Performance at the Grieg Academy, University of Bergen. He has performed as soloist and chamber musician in major cities in Europe, the USA, and Asia. His long-time close collaborations with composers such as Harald Saverud and Ketil Hvoslef have led to numerous first performances and critically acclaimed recordings.

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