Heather Harper was an esteemed Northern Irish soprano, known for her versatile voice and her remarkable interpretations of both the operatic and concert repertoires. Born on May 8, 1930, in Belfast, she rose to prominence in the post-war years and became particularly associated with the works of British composers, such as Benjamin Britten, whose operas and vocal works feature prominently in her discography.

Harper's career spanned several decades, during which she became a favorite of both audiences and critics for her luminous tone and insightful musicianship. Her performance in key roles, such as Ellen Orford in Britten's "Peter Grimes" and the Female Chorus in "The Rape of Lucretia," became benchmarks for subsequent generations. Moreover, her interpretations of the choral and orchestral works of Handel, Mahler, and Wagner, as evidenced by her recorded legacy, demonstrate her prowess in a wide array of musical styles. She collaborated with leading orchestras and conductors around the world until her retirement, leaving behind a rich recorded legacy that continues to be celebrated posthumously. Heather Harper passed away on April 22, 2019, but her artistic contributions endure.

Genres

Classical Soprano

Latest Release

Mahler & Wagner: Orchestral Works

Gustav Mahler•

Sir Georg Solti•

Heather Harper•

London Symphony Orchestra•

Wiener Philharmoniker

Album - 10 Tracks - Released March 5, 2021