English, Irish & Scottish Songs (Collection)

Various Composers

Kathleen Ferrier

late 1940s, early 1950s Mono recordings. Accompanied by Phyllis Spurr and John Newmark.

Top choice. Ferrier was 'just made to sing' these traditional English songs. Her short, unaccompanied 'Blow the Wind Southerly' is 'just so beautiful... just heart-melting.' A classic set, defined by her 'humanity'.

Bryn Terfel, Malcolm Martineau

1995

A classic recording (titled 'The Vagabond') featuring powerfully sung, evocative, and atmospheric songs by Vaughan Williams, Finzi, John Ireland, and George Butterworth.

John McCormack, Gerald Moore

1930s Mono recording.

Irreplaceable recordings of traditional Irish songs and ballads ('Songs of My Heart'). McCormack, though an opera singer, 'just sounds so in character... so idiomatic.' 'Irreplaceable stuff from the horse's mouth'.