Bach: Cantatas for alto | Christophe Rousset & Les Talens Lyriques | Frescos Ayres del Prado

“Bach: Arias for Alto” is an album released on November 8, 2024, featuring Hungarian countertenor Zoltan Darago, accompanied by Christophe Rousset and his ensemble, Les Talens Lyriques. This collection showcases some of Johann Sebastian Bach’s most exquisite cantata arias composed for the alto voice.

The album comprises 11 arias, reflecting Bach’s prolific period between 1723 and 1726, during which he composed a cantata for each Sunday service. These works highlight the alto voice’s unique capacity to convey a range of emotions, from deep sorrow to fervent devotion. The program includes both well-known and lesser-performed arias, offering listeners a comprehensive exploration of Bach’s vocal compositions for the alto tessitura.

This recording marks Zoltan Darago’s debut album, and his collaboration with Christophe Rousset and Les Talens Lyriques has been described as a significant milestone in his career. Darago has expressed that this project has been a challenging and enriching journey, deepening his appreciation for Bach’s genius.