Debussy & Strauss

Debussy & Strauss is the debut release by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra on MSO their new record label. It brings together Chief Conductor Jaime Martín, Superstar Soprano and MSO 2023 Artist in Residence Siobhan Stagg and the full might of the MSO to perform music from Strauss and Debussy that explores life, love and approaching death. This is Siobhan Stagg’s 2nd album at NativeDSD.  Following her earlier album Voices: Songs by Richard Hagemen on the Aliud label.

This album is available at NativeDSD in Stereo and 5 Channel Surround Sound DSD 256, DSD 128, DSD 64 and Stereo DSD 512. It is the first release of recordings stemming from a new production and distribution partnership, signed in December 2022, between the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) and the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO).

Chief Conductor Jaime Martín praises the new release. “The Strauss and Debussy concerts with the incredible Siobhan Stagg were among my personal highlights of 2023,” says Martín. “Our partnership with the LSO means that the first recording on our new label will receive international distribution and promotion, allowing the MSO to share this wonderful music with the largest possible audience.”

Mildura-born soprano and darling of the international stage Siobhan Stagg performed Strauss’ Vier letzte Lieder at the MSO 2023 Season Opening Gala. Posthumously titled Four Last Songs, Strauss’ sublime pieces farewell a world irrevocably altered by two world wars. Under Martín’s ‘sensitive accompaniment’ (The Age) Stagg imbues these complex works with nostalgia, naïveté, and astonishing sincerity. In this ‘truly magical experience’ (Australian Stage) Stagg brings ‘profound empathy and commanding elegance’ to Richard Strauss’ Four Last Songs (The Age). Classic Melbourne described Stagg’s stage presence as ‘mesmerizing’, and her voice as ‘shining and luscious.’

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Jamie Martín, Conductor
Siobhan Stagg, Soprano