Canadian baritone Gerald Finley is a singer of rare distinction and commanding character, at the top of his game in opera houses and concert halls across the world.

Joined by his regular recital partner Julius Drake, Finley performs works by two of the masters of Romantic song, in a powerful recital based around the vivid, highly emotional verse on themes of love, desire and loss by the great German poet Heinrich Heine.

Schumann’s Dichterliebe (or A Poet’s Love) traces a tragic journey from elation to despair; from spring optimism, as the singer hopes his new-found beloved will return his love, to the bitter disappointment of indifference and rejection. It contains some of Schumann’s most poignant songs, set to music of immense subtlety and power.

Schwanengesang, Schubert’s final song cycle, seems to pick up where Dichterliebe left off, as the poet addresses his distant beloved in forlorn hope and increasing grief. Placed together, these two cycles offer an immensely powerful experience. Discover new depths of emotion as Finley brings his considerable talents to these heartbreaking works.

Supported by
Donald and Louise MacDonald