Metropolitan Opera

Dido's Lament, Sung by Marjorie Lawrence

English · Music, Performing Arts

Hear Marjorie Lawrence sing “Dido’s Lament,” the celebrated aria from Henry Purcell’s opera Dido and Aeneas. The Metropolitan Opera title identifies this as a performance associated with the company; the supplied title names Lawrence as the singer and gives the date of February 18, 1945.

Purcell’s lament is a poignant farewell, with Dido expressing grief and resignation in the aria’s famous descending line. Its expressive vocal writing and measured, elegiac character make the piece a focused showcase for the singer, distinct from the larger dramatic sweep of a complete opera.

For listeners drawn to opera and historic vocal performance, this recording offers a chance to hear Lawrence in a compact, emotionally direct selection from the Baroque repertoire.

This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.