Fairy Tales

December 2022
Regula Mühlemann, a soprano of remarkable talent, invites listeners to a world of enchantment and fantasy with her latest release, “Fairy Tales.” Delving into a collection of arias and songs by diverse composers such as Adam, Britten, Dvořák, Grieg, Massenet, Mendelssohn, Monteverdi, Offenbach, Purcell, and Verdi, Mühlemann showcases her prowess as a storyteller through music. Joined by the CHAARTS Chamber Artists under the direction of Wolfgang Renz, this album takes us on a journey through the realm of fairy tales, both familiar and obscure.

The album’s theme of fairy tales is captivating, as it showcases a medley of characters and narratives, each reflecting a different facet of the magical world. From the ethereal Rusalka in Dvořák’s eponymous opera to the endearing La Fée in Massenet’s Cendrillon, Mühlemann’s vocal versatility shines as she brings these characters to life. While the inclusion of Solveig’s aria from Grieg’s “Peer Gynt” might raise an eyebrow, it nevertheless adds a unique dimension to the compilation, leaving us pondering the intricate connection between literature and music.

One intriguing aspect of “Fairy Tales” is the inclusion of purely orchestral movements from Grieg’s incidental music, contributing an instrumental interlude that beautifully weaves together the thematic essence of the album. While some might question the cohesion of such an approach, it adds an element of diversity and depth to the listening experience, underscoring the ethereal nature of the fairy tale world.

Mühlemann’s vocal artistry is showcased wonderfully in this album, her performances capturing the nuances of each character and narrative. Her rendition of the Cendrillon aria exhibits her ethereal tone and mastery of coloratura, painting a vivid picture of the fairy tale princess. Equally captivating is her interpretation of Mendelssohn’s ‘Neue Liebe,’ which carries a delicate undertone of menace, creating an enticingly mysterious atmosphere. Throughout the album, Mühlemann’s vocal control and emotive delivery draw us into the enchanting tales.

However, some listeners might find themselves wishing for a more substantial orchestral accompaniment to complement Mühlemann’s vocals. The decision to utilize the CHAARTS Chamber Artists, though executed well by Wolfgang Renz, occasionally leaves a yearning for a richer orchestral texture that could have enhanced the magical ambiance even further.

“Fairy Tales” boasts moments of true enchantment, particularly in the selections that align seamlessly with Mühlemann’s strengths. The Barcarolle from Offenbach’s “Die Rheinnixen” and Nannetta’s aria from Verdi’s “Falstaff” hold their own as engaging performances, yet they do not quite reach the same level of exceptional artistry found in other tracks.

In sum, “Fairy Tales” is a captivating journey into the realm of imagination and wonder, where Regula Mühlemann’s captivating vocals and the artistry of CHAARTS Chamber Artists intertwine to bring classic characters and stories to life. With its blend of ethereal enchantment and moments of vocal brilliance, this album is an invitation to escape into the spellbinding world of fairy tales, where music and storytelling converge in harmonious magic.