Royal Opera House remembers Susan Chilcott with new album

4 September 2013, 11:11

Soprano Susan Chilcott is to be remembered on the 10th anniversary of her death with a new album of previously unheard performances, titled The Shining River.

The album showcases the soprano's incredible voice and warm personality through a selection of songs by Copland, Richard Strauss, Berlioz, Vaughan Williams and Britten, accompanied by pianist Iain Burnside. Released on the Royal Opera House label, Opus Arte, the project has the backing of conductor Antonio Pappano, who worked with the singer before she died.

He said: "I conducted her for ten years (more likely she conducted me!); those experiences remain unforgettable to me. This recording is a celebration of her unique spirit, voice and heart, and I am thrilled it is now being issued. Susan Chilcott lives!"

Susan died of breast cancer at the age of 40 on 4 September 2003. After her death, the Susan Chilcott Scholarship was set up to help aspiring singers with their career.

(Photo: Keith Saunders)