Arias from

Martha

Ach? so fromm (M’Appari) This aria has been sung by every important 20th century tenor since Caruso popularized it in 1917. There are also rock, swing and jazz versions. James Joyce referenced the aria in the “sirens” section of Ulysses.

Jan Kiepura: This is a traditional version of Martha’s famous aria. Kiepura was a very famous Polish Tenor and Actor in the 30’s.  He fled Poland before the war and immigrated to America.

Connee Boswell: The Boswell Sisters were a very famous close harmony group in the 30’s. This recording is from 1935 and is the first known example of an aria being “swung “.

Tis the last rose of summer: Thomas Moore wrote the words in 1809. The music is from a traditional Irish folk tune. Flotow popularized the song in 1843 when he used it verbatim in Martha.

Deana Durbin: A very popular American actress and soprano. Known for her hollywood films of the1930’s and 40’s. Russian cellist/conductor Mstislav Rostropovich cited Durbin as one of his most important musical influences, stating: "She helped me in my discovery of myself. You have no idea of the smelly old movie houses I patronized to see Deanna Durbin. I tried to create the very best in my music, to try and recreate, to approach her purity

Nina Simone: An American singer, songwriter and civil rights activist widely associated with jazz music.

  Join our Newsletter list