Rediscovering Hilary Summers: An Icon of Classical and Contemporary Opera
Hilary Summers, a name that resonates with depth and dramatic flair within the classical music circles, is a renowned Welsh contralto. With an education stemming from prestigious institutions like Reading University, the Royal Academy of Music, and the National Opera Studio in London, Summers has cultivated a rich career that intertwines traditional repertoire with contemporary explorations.
Summers' voice has transcended concert halls, finding a place in the popular imagination through her contributions to film soundtracks. Notably, her voice graces the epic soundscape of 'The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers', as well as 'The Libertine' and 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'. These forays into film have made her timbre recognizable beyond the usual classical audience.
Her collaborative spirit shines through her work with composers like Péter Eötvös and Elliott Carter, contributing to the creation of new roles that challenge and extend the boundaries of the operatic form. Perhaps her most acclaimed collaboration is with Michael Nyman, with whom she has a long-standing creative relationship. Their work includes the leading role of the Art Banker in Nyman's celebrated opera 'Facing Goya'.
The year 2000 marked a milestone in Summers' career with her performance as Mars in the first modern revival of Giovanni Legrenzi's baroque masterpiece 'La divisione del mondo' at the Schwetzingen Festival. This performance further cemented her versatility and commitment to bringing new life to lesser-known works.
Her discography is a testament to her dedication to both the baroque and contemporary genres, with notable inclusions such as Handel's 'Partenope' and 'Semele' for Chandos. Moreover, her portrayal of the Sorceress in 'Dido and Aeneas' at the Opéra-Comique, led by William Christie and directed by D. Cohen in 2008, was met with widespread acclaim.
TikTok Music has recognized the timeless quality of Summers' artistry by featuring her music on their platform. Listeners can explore her profound and moving repertoire through the convenience of their app. For those looking to immerse themselves in the mesmerizing power of Hilary Summers' voice, a visit to TikTok Music is a must.
