Amadè – Julie Fuchs

Julie Fuchs, the accomplished soprano, takes listeners on an enchanting journey through the lesser-known corners of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s repertoire in her Sony Classical release, “Amadè.” With an album design exuding elegance and luxury, Fuchs’ musical exploration is far from predictable. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Château de Fontainebleau, the album features the Balthasar Neumann Orchestra conducted by Thomas Hengelbrock, creating an atmosphere that resonates with the depth of the chosen repertoire.

While the anticipation might be for a collection of Mozart’s well-trodden arias, “Amadè” surprises and delights by showcasing a careful selection of both familiar and rare compositions. The album interweaves cherished pieces from Mozart’s famed works, such as “Le nozze di Figaro” and “Die Zauberflöte,” with hidden gems that deserve more recognition.

Among the notable inclusions are freestanding concert arias, a segment of Mozart’s incidental music for the play “Thamos, König in Ägypten,” and a piece from the unfinished opera “Zaide.” Fuchs and her team even unearthed a hidden treasure: two verses from the collaborative aria “Per la ricuperata salute di Ofelia, K. 477a,” co-written by Mozart, Antonio Salieri, and an unknown third composer. Fuchs, unfortunately, only performs Mozart’s verses, leaving listeners intrigued by the potential of a head-to-head comparison.

Fuchs’ commitment to her craft shines through in her performances, infusing each piece with the emotional depth and technical finesse they deserve. Her interpretation lends a unique flavor to the well-known aria “Dove sono,” drawing listeners into Mozart’s world and leaving an indelible imprint.

The album’s connection to Nancy Storace, a prominent singer from Mozart’s era, adds an extra layer of historical significance. Fuchs’ exceptional vocal prowess, which is reminiscent of the qualities associated with Storace, paints an intriguing picture of what the music might have sounded like in its original context.

“Amadè” stands as evidence of Julie Fuchs’ musical insight and her dedication to shedding light on overlooked corners of classical music. This release is not just another Mozart album; it’s an emotional exploration that expands our understanding of the genius composer and the musical landscape of his time. In a world where the familiar often takes center stage, Julie Fuchs and her collaborators have crafted a major-label release that is refreshingly unique and a must-listen for Mozart enthusiasts and classical music aficionados alike.