Un Couleru De Plus Au Drapeau [Import]

1. Une Couleur De Plus Au Drapeau

2. Qui Es-Tu -

3. Op Ration Charbon

4. Qui Sera Le Prochain -

5. Artifices

6. Le Geste

7. Si Tu Aimes —A

8. Interlude J.T

9. Ghetto CocaŸNe

10. Pousse Les Limites

11. Vie De Crev's

12. Jungle Fever

13. Neuf Mois

14. Sans Parrain Ni Mac

Tracks:

Apres un reve, Op. 7 No. 1
Sylvie, Op. 7 No. 3
Au bord de l'eau, Op. 8 No. 1
Lydia, Op. 4 No. 2
Le papillon et la fleur, Op. 1 No.1
Mandoline, Op. 58 No. 1: 5 Melodies de Venise
Clair de lune, Op. 46, No. 2
Les berceaux, Op. 23 No. 1
3 Chansons de Bilitis: I. La flute de Pan
3 Chansons de Bilitis: II. La chevelure
3 Chansons de Bilitis: III. Le tombeau des Naiades
Fetes galantes: I. En sourdine
Fetes galantes: II. Fantoches
Fetes galantes: III. Clair de lune
Nuit d'etoiles
Beau soir
Fleur des bles
La Belle au bois dormant
Noel des enfants qui n'ont plus de maison
BANALITES: I. Chanson d'Orkenise
BANALITES: II. Hotel
BANALITES: III. Fagnes de Wallonie
BANALITES: IV. Voyage a Paris
BANALITES: V. Sanglots
2 Melodies de Guillaume Apollinaire: I. Montparnasse
2 Melodies de Guillaume Apollinaire: II. Hyde Park
Les chemins de l'amour - valse chantee

Customer Reviews:

Lovely.......2005-08-30

I recommend this to any art-song lover, and really, anybody at all. Gens does an excellent performance of a great collection of beautiful French songs. Her voice is enjoyable all the way, she has great expression, and a convincing mastery of the genre.

An unexpected glimpse of happiness........2001-07-21

Stendhal wrote that "the sight of anything extremely beautiful, in nature or in art, brings back the memory of what one loves, with the speed of lightning. That is, ... all that is beautiful and sublime in the world takes part in the beauty of what one loves, and this unexpected glimpse of happiness immediately fills the eyes with tears. This is how love of the beautiful and love give each other life." This is what Ms. Gens will do to you when you listen to this CD.

Enchanting recital of French Melodies.......2000-07-07

This is a most enjoyable release, all the more so because Veronique Gens, who is generally considered a baroque specialist on the lyric stage, may well be a torch-bearer of the elusive art of the French song in the coming decades. The voice of Gens, which is solid and well-integrated with an alluring dash of vibrancy embedded therein, is eminently suited to the repertoire represented in this new Virgin Classics release. Her secure technique (just a hint of strain in one or two high notes) also renders it possible for her to fine down her voice in the ending of phrases to a charming effect. Being a native French speaker certainly helps, too. Although hers is perhaps not the most strongly-etched of readings, she is able to inflect the text intelligently, and her subtle but heart-felt stresses on particular words not only serve to illuminate the poetic prose, but also meld beautifully with the notes that she sing.

The CD opens with songs by Faure, and while Gens may not possess the charm and naturalness of utterance of Maggie Teyte, whose recordings of Faure's songs are, in the opinion of this reviewer, unsurpassable, she can conjure up the right kind of feeling for every song as no one can. Her tempo for the popular "Apres un reve" is a trifle too laid back. Yet, she conveys to perfection the dream-like quality of the song, as well as the sense of confusion and regret at awakening. Her singing of "Le papillon et la fleur" is delightfully vivid, and her evocation of the feeling of sadness being kept in restraint in "Les berceaux" makes the performance both intimate and touching.

The Debussy group is no less impressive. Despite the innovative idiom in which most of these songs are composed, Gens is able bring them off effortlessly and stylishly. She is in total command whether in the serenity of "Beau soir", the romanticism of "Nuit d'etoiles", the rustic charm of "Fleur des bles", or the harrowing grimness of "Noel des enfants qui n'ont plus de maison", the last one composed when Debussy was being haunted by the atrocities of the Great War. In "Fetes galantes I", although the vocal and piano parts are often independent of each other, Gens's remarkable interpretation succeeds in unifying the two strands into a picturesque and colourful whole. The "3 Chansons de Bilitis", which are composed very much in the style of PELLEAS ET MELISANDE, also find an ideal interpreter in Gens where, blessed with a keen sense of rhythm, she succeeds in propelling the texts forward with musical grace and dramatic import. She would surely make a wonderful Melisande.

The Poulenc is equally fine. The young soprano is able to do full justice to the diverse moods in "Banalites", which, according to Olivier Opdebeeck, who penned the CD notes, is composed in a "part-melancholy, part-joyful tone with a barb of irony which the composer identified in the poet". The "2 Melodies de Guillaume Apollinaire" are sharply contrasted, one (Montparnasse) languid and brooding and the other (Hyde Park) gusty and piquant. Gens's singing of "Les chemins de l'amour", a cross between a Viennese waltz and a cabaret song, is loveliness itself and provides a delicious end to an enchanting recital.

The major reservation that this reviewer has involves the accompaniment of Roger Vignoles. While he is able to provide secure support for the singer, his playing is uncharacterful and even bland. Besides, the piano tone seems to be rather thin at times. Nonetheless, this should not detract one from the sensuous beauty of Gens's performance. This reviewer hopes that Virgin Classics would be encouraged by the success of this release so that they can present this most promising singer in further volumes of French songs by, say, Chausson, Ravel and Duparc.

Nuit d'toiles - Melodies Francaises/ Gens, Vignoles.......2000-06-13

Not being a professional, but loving the genre of French melodies I'll avoid technical commentary; I have become a collector of these in recent years and find this one extremely satifying and appreciate the variety this CD presents.

An Outstanding Vocal Performance.......2000-05-01

This ranks as one of the very best recordings of French 'melodies' that I have yet heard. Unlike most other singers, Gens gives the words drama and meaning. Too many singers perform these works in a detached 'artistic' manner that often makes them all sound almost alike. I say this not to belittle Gens' voice (which is superb), but to indicate that this disk will take you beyond the 'standard' interpretations of these works. I had a chance to compare one of the melodies with another recent recording by Schafer, another singer whom I respect Both were being featured in a local record store. It was hard to realize they were actually singing the same piece. I recently saw Gens perform much of the same program at a recital in NYC. This was the best recital I had heard in a very long time (I go to many). The disk is almost as good. It suffers a bit from a very unnatural recorded sound: the microphone is much too close to the singer and the piano is much too forward. Also the accompaniest in NYC was clearly better. Nevertheless, it would be hard to find a better recorded performance. The more I listen to the disk, the less I notice these drawbacks. The choice of repetoire is also well done. I particularly liked the Debussy 'Trois chansons de Bilitis.' She ends with 'Les chemins de l'amour' which Poulenc wrote for Jean Anouilh's play 'Leaocadia'. This has become very popular outside the normal recital circuit. If you get only one disk of French melodies, this is the one to get.

Debussy & Ravel: Piano Works - Samson Francois (6 CD's)

Average customer rating:

great pianist!!!!
Yesterday Francois would be celebrating his eighty-two anniversary

Debussy & Ravel: Piano Works - Samson Francois (6 CD's)
Samson Francois , Claude Debussy , and Maurice Ravel
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Pavanes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Lullabies & Berceuse | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Chopin: Piano Works, Vol. 3
Debussy, Ravel: Orchestral Works
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Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas / Daniel Barenboim

ASIN: B0002RUAEM
Release Date: 2004-11-02

Tracks:

1. Danseuses De Delphes
2. Voiles
3. Le Vent Dans La Plaine
4. Les Sons Et Les Parfums Tournent Dans L'Air Du Soir
5. Les Collines D'Anacapri
6. Des Pas Sur La Neige
7. Ce Qu'a Vu Le Vent D'Ouest
8. La Fille Aux Cheveux De Lin
9. La Serenade Interrompue
10. La Cathedrale Engloutie
11. Danse De Puck
12. Minstrels
1. Brouillards
2. Feuilles Mortes
3. La Puerta Del Vino
4. Les Fees Sont D'Exquises Danseuses
5. Bruyeres
6. General Lavine (Eccentric)
7. La Terrasse Des Audiences Au Clair De Lune
8. Ondine
9. Hommage A S. Pickwick Esq. P.P.M.P.C.
10. Canope
12. Feux D'Artifice

Tracks:

1. Reflets Dans L'eau
2. Hommage A Rameau
3. Mouvement
1. Cloches A Travers Les Feuilles
2. Et La Lune Descend Sur Le Temple Qui Fut
3. Poissons D'or
Reverie
1. Andantino
2. Allegretto Scherzando
La Plus Que Lente, Valse
1. Pour Les Degres Chromatiques
2. Pour Les Agrements
4. Pour Les Sonorites Opposees
5. Pour Les Arpeges Composes
6. Pour Les Accords
Masques
L'Isle Joyeuse
Berceuse Heroique

Tracks:

1. Doctor Gradus Ad Parnassum
2. Jimbo's Lullaby
3. Serenade For The Doll
4. The Snow Is Dancing
5. The Little Shepherd
6. Golliwogg's Cake-Walk
1. Pagodes
2. La Soiree Dans Grenade
3. Jardins Sous La Pluie
1. Prelude
2. Menuet
3. Clair De Lune
4. Passepied
1. Prelude
2. Sarabande
3. Toccata

Tracks:

1. Allegramente
2. Adagio Assai
3. Presto
Lento/Allegro
1. Pavane De La Belle Au Bois Dormant - Pierre Barbizet
2. Petit Poucet - Pierre Barbizet
3. Laideronnette, Imperatrice Des Pagodes - Pierre Barbizet
4. Les Entretiens De La Belle Et De La Bete - Pierre Barbizet
5. Le Jardin Feerique - Pierre Barbizet

Tracks:

Pavane Pour Une Infante Defunte
1. Modere, Tres Franc
2. Assez Lent
3. Modere
4. Assez Anime
5. Presque Lent
6. Vif
7. Moins Vif
8. Epilogue: Lent
Prelude
Jeux D'Eau
Menuet Sur Le Nom D'Haydn
1. Noctuelles
2. Oiseaux Tristes
3. Une barque Sur L'Ocean
4. Alborada Del Gracioso
5. La Vallee Des Cloches
Emmanuel Chabrier (Paraphrase Sur Un Air De Gounod)
Borodine

Tracks:

1. Ondine
2. Le Gibet
3. Scarbo
1. Modere
2. Mouvement De Menuet
3. Anime
1. Prelude
2. Fugue
3. Forlane
4. Riguadon
5. Menuet
6. Toccata
Menuet Antique

Customer Reviews:

great pianist!!!!.......2007-02-16

samson was one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century his debussy was sublime and his color palete to impresionism is unsurpassed. could someone tell me if these recordings of his debussy are the stereo ones

Yesterday Francois would be celebrating his eighty-two anniversary .......2006-05-19

Samson Francois figure has evidenced slow but increasing enhancement through the years. His notable pianism, aristocratic approach and refined phrasing are some of his virtues.

If you still do not know about this legendary artist, no itý s the time for you to convince by yourself about the supreme level occupied by him.

When he left us in 1970 at his 46, he had so much to give. The musical world remained legitimately orphan and much more vile since his premature death.

But, fortunately his legacy will live among us, every time you listen any record you acquire of this peerless musician.

His Ravel is loaded not only of notable, sensual and asserive expressiveness. If you know about some other performance able to equal his Gaspard de la nuit, please, be my guest.

His Debussy is sober, eloquent with Impresionist flair and sublime musicality.

A true artistic and a fundamental treasure in your collection.

Average customer rating:

Brava
Un trouvaille!
Rare Crespin
Only for real fans!

Regine Crespin: Ses Plus Grands Rôles

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Tracks:

Otello: Air Du Saule-Ave Maria
Cosi Fan Tutti: Qu'il S'eloigne Qu'il Parte Au Loin De Moi
Le Nozze De Figaro: E Susanna, Non Vien
Penelope: Justice Est Faite
Parsifal: Ich Sah Das Kind
Der Rosenkavalier: Da Geht Er Hin
Fidelio: Abscheulicher, Wo Eilst Du Hin
Un Ballo In Maschera: Teco Io Sto

Customer Reviews:

Brava.......2005-01-31

I remember a Metropolitan Opera broadcast singers roundtable in which the great Regine Crespin participated fairly late in her career. As they went around the table, the question was "When you give a performance, what do you hope the audience will go away thinking?" When it came to Crespin, her answer was "I hope they will go away thinking 'She looks like she's lost twenty pounds', because I have!" The audience was in hysterics for what seemed like half an hour.

I trust this release, the few others currently available, and the considerable amount of recorded material not currently in release which should be, will attest to the unquestioned fact this extraordinary artist should, and will, be remembered for much, much more.

May she live forever in our hearts.

Un trouvaille!.......2002-06-20

This is what the French would call "a find"!

I agree wholeheartedly with Mr Levinson's comments below. Featuring Crespin's singing of repertoire mostly unavailable elsewhere (and now that EMI's early-career studio recordings, including the Otello scene in Italian, are currently out of the catalog) with the voice fresh in its voluptuous, youthful splendor, this generous compilation is simply not to be missed!

Never mind any sonic flaws of the source material which, for live airchecks, are fairly negligible. In fact, the sound is remarkably dynamic if a shade fierce in the treble, with only one serious pitch variation due to uneven tape speed marring the Fiordiligi aria, which is nevertheless sung magnificently, as mentioned before, translated into the venacular (a practice commonplace in European opera houses of the period). With diction so pure and clear as Crespin's, a model of how French should be sung, it is not only instructional but sheer pleasure to hear the familiar Mozartean tour-de-force rendered in her native tongue rather than the usual Italian.

Perhaps of greatest significance is the Wagner selection. Considering that this is the only currently available sample of Crespin's ne-plus-ultra interpretation of the role of Kundry (a complete Bayreuth aircheck of this Parsifal is out there and urgently wanting issue on CD), which her conductor and Parsifal specialist Knappertsbusch called the greatest Kundry he had ever heard, this becomes a must-have release.

Rare Crespin.......2000-12-04

The sound is live-broadcast, but good enough to reveal the magnificent Crespin at her vocal peak in repetoire unavailable otherwise. Desdemonda's grand scene from "Otello" and the Mozart selections are sung in French, but with such feeling and sheer vocal beauty that it almost doesn't matter. The Verdi "Ballo" duet with Corelli (in Italian) is thrilling, but so is everything else on this disc. For me, the recording is an unadulterated pleasure, sound and language be damned.

Only for real fans!.......1999-05-20

I was excited by the prospect of hearing a much loved voice in her best repertoire. unfortunately the reording quality is poor, and the arias often sung in translation. her Fiordiligi is uncomfortable. Yet her Penelope (Faure) is riveting. Listen to this one first!

Average customer rating:

Best collection of violin playing ever made
I really can't add anything to the other reviews...
An essential item for any classical collection
Michael Rabin was INCREDIBLE
A Fitting Tribute To The 20th Century's Greatest Violinist

Michael Rabin, 1936-1972

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
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ASIN: B000002S35
Release Date: 2005-10-04

Tracks:

Vn Concerto No.1 in D, Op.6: I. Allegro maestoso
Vn Concerto No.1 in D, Op.6: II. Adagio espressivo
Vn Concerto No.1 in D, Op.6: I. III. Rondo (Allegro spirituoso)
Vn Concerto No.2 in d, Op.22: I. Allegro moderato
Vn Concerto No.2 in d, Op.22: II. Romaze ( Andante non troppo)
Vn Concerto No.2 in d, Op.22:III. Allegro con fuoco- Allegro moderato (a la Zingara)
Vn Concerto No.1 in F sharp minor, Op.14: I. allegro moderato
Vn Concerto No.1 in F sharp minor, Op.14: II. Preghiera (Larghetto)
Vn Concerto No.1 in F sharp minor, Op.14: III. Rondo (Allegro giocoso)

Tracks:

Vn Concerto No.1 in D, Op.6: I. Allegro maestoso (Kadenz/Cadenza:Flesch)
Vn Concerto No.1 in D, Op.6:II. Adagio espressivo
Vn Concerto No.1 in D, Op.6: III. Rondo (Allegro Spirituoso)
Vn Con in D, Op. 35: I. Allegro moderato
Vn Con in D, Op. 35: II. Cazonette (Andante)
Vn Con in D, Op. 35:III. Finale (Allegro vivacissimo)

Tracks:

Vn Con in e, Op. 64: I. Allegro molto appassionato
VnCon in e, Op. 64: II. Andante
Vn Con in e, Op. 64: III. allegretto non troppo-allegro molto vivace
Scottish Fantasy Op.46 for vn with orch and hp:I. Adagio
Scottish Fantasy Op.46 for vn with orch and hp:II. allegro-Tanz-Animato-Adagio-Tempo I...
Scottish Fantasy Op.46 for vn with orch and hp:III. Andante sostenuto-Piu animato
Scottish Fantasy Op.46 for vn with orch and hp:IV. Finale (Allegro Guerriero) ...
Vn Con in a, Op.82: I. Moderato
Vn Con in a, Op.82: II. Andante sostenuto
Vn Con in a, Op.82: III. Allegro - Michael Rabin M

Tracks:

Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.1 E-dur/in E
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.2 h-moll/in b
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.3 e-moll/in e
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.4 c-moll/in c
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.5 a-moll/in a
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.6 g-moll/in g
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.7 A-dur/in A
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.8 Es-dur/in E flat
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.9 E-dur/in E
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.10 g-moll/in g
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.11 C-dur/in C
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.12 As-dur/in A Flat
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.13 B-dur/in B flat
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.14 Es-dur/in E flat
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.15 e-moll/in e
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.16 g-moll/in g
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.17 Es-dur/in E flat
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.18 C-dur/in C
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.19 Es-dur/in E flat
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.20 D-dur/in D
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.21 A-dur/in A
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.22 F-dur/in F
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.23 Es-dur/in E flat
Capricen Nos.1-24,Op.1 For solo vn: No.24 a-moll/in a

Tracks:

sonate No.3,BWV 1005 in C, for solo vn: I. Adagio - Michael RabinMichael Rabin
Sonate No.3,BWV 1005 in C, for solo vn: II. Fuga (Alla breve)
Sonate No.3,BWV 1005 in C, for solo vn: III. Largo
Sonate No.3,BWV 1005 in C, for solo vn: IV. Allegro assai
Sonate Op.27 No.4 in c, for solo vn: I. Allemanda
Sonate Op.27 No.4 in c, for solo vn: I. Allemanda
Sonate Op.27 No.4 in c, for solo vn: II. Sarabande
Sonate Op.27 No.3 in d, for solo vn: in one movement
Etude-Caprice, Op.18 No.4 for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
La plus que lente for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Piece en forme d'Habanere for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Tzigane: Rhapsody for vn and orch
Meditation: for vn and orch
Caprice Viennois, Op.2: for vn and orch
Into & Rondo capriccioso,Op.28 for vn and orch

Tracks:

Havanaise, Op.83 for vn and orch
Intro & Rondo capriccioso, Op.28 for vn and orch
Zapateado (No.2 aud/from Spanische Tanz Op.23) for vn and orch - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Habanera for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Ziegunerweisen, Op.20 No.1 for vn and orch
Hora staccato for vn and orch
Moto perpetuo, Op.11 for vn and orch
La Capricieuse, Op.17 for vn and orch - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Du alter Stephansturm for vn and orch
Der Hummelflu for vn and orch
Nocturne No.8 Op.27 No.2 in D flat, for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Jeunes filles au jardin for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Etude Op.8 No.10 for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Sea-Shell for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Marsch for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers
Burleska for vn and pno - Michael Rabin/Leon Pommers

Customer Reviews:

Best collection of violin playing ever made.......2007-04-12

I am a professional violinist and have long been an admirer of Michael Rabin. His technic is beyond concern. I am familiar with people involved in these recordings. Amazingly, many were single, unedited takes. If you ever buy a violin recording, these are the ones to get.

I really can't add anything to the other reviews..........2007-01-07

...this collection is an absolute necessity to anyone enjoys violin music and a near necessity to anyone who enjoys classical music...what astounds me is the quality of many of the recordings...more often than not violin recordings seem to produce a sound that leaves the impression that you're listening from the back row in a large hall...most of Rabin's recordings, on the other hand, give the impression either he's right in the room with you or else you're in the front row at the concert.

An essential item for any classical collection.......2006-04-20

Rabin is spectacular!!! Just listen to his rendition of Zigeunerwiesen, he has no equal for this piece - not even close! I have been waiting for the re-release of this set for over 5 years, asking EMI if they would ever consider it. My thanks to EMI for listening. This is a re-release they wont regret. I have a collection of classical violin by many artists, but there is something very special about these recordings by Michael Rabin. His interpretations and the gusto of his playing take your breath away.

I cannot imagine any collection of classical music without this set of CDs.

Michael Rabin was INCREDIBLE.......2006-04-14

I have to second Scott68. Rabin was one incredible violinist. I agree, the Paganini Caprices (age 15!) Wieniawski and others were never topped by anyone! This set is guaranteed to drop your jaw.

A Fitting Tribute To The 20th Century's Greatest Violinist.......2006-04-01

If you don't have these CD's get them, you won't be disappointed, especially if you love the violin as I do. If you're a Rabin fan too then this small investment is money well spent. A better set of recordings of violin classics couldn't be found anywhere. Rabin quite simply was the greatest violinist of the 20th century, rivalling, and in some ways surpassing the venerable Heifetz. He was also known for his phenomenal virtuosity and 'voluptuos' tone somewhat reminiscent of Perlman.

This boxed set includes many of the virtuoso pieces that made him famous as well as more reflective pieces like Bach. Listen to these and judge for yourselves what a truly great violinist was Rabin.

Forgotten Songs: Dawn Upshaw Sings Debussy

Average customer rating:

Classic Art Songs Sung with Brilliance and Artistry
Pretty, but not memorable
Returning to the Recital Hall: A Soiree
Pretty sound spoiled by a bad vocal habit
Excellent!

Forgotten Songs: Dawn Upshaw Sings Debussy

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Upshaw, Dawn | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
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ASIN: B000002B6P
Release Date: 1997-03-18

Tracks:

Vasnier Songbook: I. Pantomime
Vasnier Songbook: II. Calmes dans le demi-jour (En sourdine)
Vasnier Songbook: III. Mandoline
Vasnier Songbook: IV. Clair de lune
Vasnier Songbook: Fantoches
Vasnier Songbook: VI. Coquetterie posthume
Vasnier Songbook: VII. Romance - Silence ineffable
Vasnier Songbook: VIII. Musique
Vasnier Songbook: X. Paysage sentimental
Vasnier Songbook: X. Romance - Voici que le printemps
Vasnier Songbook: XI. La Romance d'Ariel
Vasnier Songbook: XII. Regret
Forgotten Melodies: I. C'est l'extase langoureuse
Forgotten Melodies: II. Il pleure dans mon coeur
Forgotten Melodies: III. L'ombre des arbres
Forgotten Melodies: IV. Chevaux de bois
Forgotten Melodies: V. Green (Aquarelle)
Forgotten Melodies: VI. Spleen (Aquarelle)
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: I. Le Balcon
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: II. Harmonie du soir
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: III. Le Jet d'eau
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: IV. Recueillement
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: V. La Mort des amants

Customer Reviews:

Classic Art Songs Sung with Brilliance and Artistry.......2006-11-10

Dawn Upshaw possesses a voice with beautiful bell canto tonal quality and uses the glissando technique, only when effective, rendering this collection of uncommon art songs superbly sung. The entire album is a joy to listen to...

Pretty, but not memorable.......2006-04-29

'Forgotton Songs, Dawn Upshaw sings Debussy' with James Levine at the piano is, to my layman's ear, very pretty to listen to, but not a whole lot to get excited about. If you are especially fond of Upshaw, you must have this recording. If you are especially fond of Debussy, other vocalists may have just a little more to offer. Everything about this recording is 'nice', just not a whole lot to get excited about.

Returning to the Recital Hall: A Soiree.......2005-04-09

Dawn Upshaw is one of the most intelligent and creative and adventuresome singers on the concert stage today. Just reviewing the list of her recordings available and it is obvious that she has paid attention to both contemporary and established composers in a way that is truly refreshing.

Here the program is devoted to the works of Claude Debussy, a composer for whom Upshaw has a particular penchant. Her voice is crystal clear, perfectly focused and yet not afraid to animate when the lyrics demand. She covers three cycles here: 'Ariettes oubliees' (for this listener the most successful on the album), 'Racueil Vasnier', and 'Cinq Poemes de Charles Baudelaire' (contrast these with the recently released Susan Graham version and see what interpretation is all about!).

The collaboration between Upshaw and James Levine is sensitive (if not always the pianism of others..). But the entire recital is uplifting and satisfying for the variation in the songs, recorded sound, the generosity of the disc, and most of all for the musical intelligence in which these songs are performed! Grady Harp, April 05

Pretty sound spoiled by a bad vocal habit.......2004-05-07

Every voice teacher I have ever had, and I have had many, were unanimous in their advice that sliding into notes is something that must be done with great moderation. Dawn Upshaw does it all the time and to the ears of a trained singer it becomes extremely annoying extremely quickly. Constant sliding into notes is less objectionable if one actually reaches the right pitch in the process. Miss Upshaw frequently does NOT, resulting in numerous instances where she is simply not in tune at all on some notes. Her sliding also creates constant dissonances with the piano which are entirely undebussyesque. If it were Webern or Berg she were singing she might get away with it. Here she does not. NOT RECOMMENDED.

P.S. Since writing this review (quite some time ago), I was fortunate to hear a recording of Ms. Upshaw in a production at the Metropolitan Opera where she didn't do any of her annoying sliding at all - not once - (probably because it was music from a much earlier time) The difference was astounding. It was a glorious performance. It was hard to believe it was the same person. This, more than ever, confirms my opinion that she ruined this recording with a bad singing habit.

Excellent!.......2003-11-26

This recording of Debussy's Melodies are really excellent. Dawn Upshaw's voice is exactly right for this kind of music - light, charming, and lyrical, with real sensitivity to the text. The Ariettes Oubliees are the best I've heard, with the exception of Frederica von Stade. In addition, her interpretation of Mandoline from the Vasnier Songbook is perfect - the tempo, piano, voice, and interpretation are exactly right. My only criticism is that the diction, while perfectly clear, has an "American" accent that is sometimes distracting.

Average customer rating:

Correction
Fritz Wunderlich can do no wrong....
The Wonder of Wunderlich
I wish I could give this release more than 5 stars: it's terrific!!!

The Art of Fritz Wunderlich

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

The Magic of Wunderlich [Includes Bonus DVD]
Fritz Wunderlich: Great German Tenor
Schumann: Dichterliebe / Wunderlich, Giesen
Schubert: Die Schöne Müllerin, 3 Lieder / Fritz Wunderlich
Very Best of

ASIN: B0009PLMQW
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

Duetto And Chorus: Kommt, Eilet Und Laufet
Aria: Sanfte Soll Mein Todeskummer
Recitative And Chorale: O Schmerz! Hier Zittert Das Gequalte Herz
Aria With Chorus: Ich Will Bei Meinem Jesu Wachen
Recitative: Mein Jesus Schweigt Zu Falschen Lugen Stille
Aria: Geduld!
Duet: Et Misericordia
Aria: Deposuit Potentes
Recitative: So Stehe Denn, Du Gottergeb'ne Seele
Aria: Adam Muss In Uns Verwesen
Chorus: Jauchzet, Frohlocket, Auf, Preiset Die Tage
Recitative: Es Begab Sich Aber Zu Der Zeit
Aria: Frohe Hirten, Eilt, Ach Eilet
Aria: Ich Will Nur Dir Zu Ehren Leben
Recitative: Und Liess Versammeln Alle Hohenpriester
Terzetto: Ach! Wann Wird Die Zeit Erscheinen
Recitative: Und Gott Befahl Ihnen Im Traum-Genug, Mein Schatz Geht Nicht Von Hier
Aria: Nun Mogt Ihr Stolzen Feinde Schrecken

Tracks:

Overture
Aria: Hier Soll Ich Dich Denn Sehen
Recitative And Aria: Konstanze, Dich Wiederzusehen, Dich!/O Wie Angstlich, O Wie Feurig
Aria: Wenn Der Freude Tranen Fliessen
Quartet: Ach! Belmonte! Ach, Mein Leben!
Aria: Ich Baue Ganz Auf Deine Starke
Recitative And Aria: Welch Ein Geschick!/Wie, Du Solltest Fur Mich Sterben!
Aria: Dies Bildnis Ist Bezaubernd Schon
Zum Ziele Fuhrt Dich Diese Bahn
Wie Stark Ist Nicht Dein Zauberton
Der Welcher Wandert Diese Strasse Vol Beschwerden
Tamino Mein! O Welch Ein Gluck!

Tracks:

Duet: Strahlt Auf Mich Der Blitz Des Goldes - Hermann Prey
Duet: Hier Nimm Den Ring Der Treue
Scene And Duet: Ich Denk Ihn Lieber Mir Von Meinem Stande/Liebe Ist Seligkeit, Ist Licht Und Leben
Toast: O Freunde, So Leeret In Vollen Zugen - Chor Des Bayerischen Rundfunks
Duet: Ich Sah Euch Lieblich Und Engelsschon - Chor Des Bayerischen Rundfunks
Duet: O, Lass Uns Fliehen Aus Diesen Mauern - Chor Des Bayerischen Rundfunks
Scene And Duet: er Ist's! Carlos! Mein PRinz!/Gott, Der Entflammte Der Liebe Heisse Glut - Hermann Prey
Duet: Infame Feder! Welch Scheusslicher Pinsel/Ach, Geliebte! Nie Kehrst Du mir Wieder! - Hermann Prey
Aria: Und Es Blitzten Die Sterne
Scene: Nicht An Mich, Geliebter, Denke
Duet: Du Sussester Engel, Wie Herrlich Hast Du Geteufelt!
Leukippos, Du?
Arioso: Ja, Ich Lieb Sie, Olga
Aria: Wohin Seid Ihr Entschwunden

Tracks:

Recitative And Arioso: Holdes Laubgezewig, Du Schones/Schattige Ruh, Nie Gab Natur Sie Mir
Aria: Der Gedanke An Die Flammen Der Liebe
Aria: Bleibt Ihr Treu Dem, Der Euch So Verachtet?
Aria: Finstre Furie, Ihr Geister Der Holle
Aria: Nur Einen wunsch, Nur Ein Verlangen - Hermann Prey
Recitative And Duet: O Unverhofftes Gluck/Das Hore Ich Von Dir, Von Meinem Freunde? - Hermann Prey
Ma Se Il Nostro Gioir/Alcun Non Sia
Perche A Lo Sdegno/Padre Cortese/Si Non Vedro
Aria: Erwacht In Meinem Herzen
Duet: Nur Weinen Lernte Ich/Nur Klagen lernte Ich
Aria: Keine Schlange Lasst Sich Toten
Romance: O Schweige Still, O Lasse Dich Erbitten
Trio: Doch Nun Zu Dir/Trenne Nicht Das Band Der Liebe - Hermann Prey
Aria: Man Wird Ja Einmal Nur Geboren
Song: Lebe Wohl, Mein Flandrisch Madchen - Chor Des Bayerischen Rundfunks
Recitative And Duet: Du Stehst Wirklich Vor Mir/Der tempel Brahmas Strahlt - Hermann Prey

Tracks:

I. Im Wunderschonen Monat Mai
II. Aus Meinen Tranen Spriessen
III. Die Rose, Die Lilie, Die Taube, Die Sonne
IV. Wenn Ich In Deine Augen Seh
V. Ich Will Meine Seele Tauchen
VI. Im Rhein, Im Heiligen Strome
VII. Ich Grolle Nicht
VIII. Und Wussten's Die Blumen, Die Kleinen
IX. Das Ist Ein Floten Und Geigen
X. Hor Ich Das Liedchen Klingen
XI. Ein Jungling Liebt Ein Madchen
XII. Am Leuchtenden Sommermorgen
XIII. Ich Hab Im Traum Geweinet
XIV. Allnachtlich Im Traume Seh Ich Dich
XV. Aus Alten Marchen Winkt Es
XVI. Die Alten Bosen Lieder
Zartliche Liebe: 'Ich Liebe Dich' WoO 123
Adelaide Op.46
Resignation WoO 149
Der Kuss Op.128
Was Ist Silvia, Saget An
Lied Eines Schiffers An Die Dioskuren D 360
Liebhaber In Allen Gestalten D 558
Der Einsame D 800
Im Abendrot Op. Post. D 799
Leise Flehen Meine Lieder
An Die Laute D 905
Der Musensohn D 764
An Die Musik D 547

Tracks:

Granada
Mattinata
Funiculi-Funicula
O Sole Mio
Vergiss Mein Nicht
Ein Lied Geht Um Die Welt
Du Bist Die Welt Fur Mich
Ich Kusse Ihre Hand, Madame
Caro Mio Ben
Ave Maria
Plaisir D'Amour
La Danza
Serenade: Fern Im Weiten Land, Dort Unten Im Suden
Be My Love
Santa Lucia
Tiritomba
Heute Nacht Oder Nie

Tracks:

Wien, Wien, Nur Du Allein
Denk Dir, Die Welt War Ein Blumenstrauss
Ich Kenn Ein Kleines Wegerl Im Helenental
In Wien Gibt's Manch Winziges Gasserl
Draussen In Sievering
Ich Weiss Auf Der Wieden Ein Kleines Hotel
Ich Muss Wieder Einmal In Grinzing Sein
Im Prater Bluhn Wieder Die Baume
Herr Hofrat, Erinnern Sie Sich Noch?
I Hab Die Schonen Maderln Net Erfunden
Es Steht Ein Alter Nussbaum Drausst In Heiligenstadt
Wien Wird Bei Nacht Erst Schon
Wenn Es Abend Wird/Gruss Mir Mein Wien
Ob Blond, Ob Braun, Ich Liebe Alle Frau'n
Weine Nicht, Bricht Eine Schone Frau Dir Das Herz
Mein Herz Ruft Immer Nur Nach Dir, O Marita
Eine Kleine Fruhlingsweise
Schlaf Ein, Mein Blond-Engelein
Annchen Von Tarau
Still Wie Die Nacht

Customer Reviews:

Correction.......2006-12-13

Now folks, both of what the two other reviewers wrote about the tragical death of Fritz Wunderlich is wrong. Wunderlich died in hospital at September 17 1966. He had broken his skull, when he fell down the stairs in the hunting-house of a friend. Late in the evening of September 16, Wunderlich, as usual when not at home, had phoned his wife in Munich. He was very tired from strolling through the forest the whole day, making out the ideal locations for the hunt, which should start early in the next morning (Wunderlich was a passionate hunter). After he had wished his wife a good night, he went to the staircase in order to go down to his bedroom at the first floor. He still wore his heavy hunting boots - with open shoestrings! As walking downstairs, Wunderlich struggled over the open shoestrings and grabbed for the banisters, which was not more than a rope, fixed to the wall. The banisters teared out, and Wunderlich fell down the whole stairs. Fritz Wunderlich died in hospital the next day. It was only short before his 36'th birthday. An exceptional singing career had come to an untimely end. Some people believe that Wunderlich was drunken at the time of accident. If this is true can't be proven any more. But still this is not what his close friends said, regarding his accident and his death. In my opinion Wunderlich was the last of the really great tenors of the last century. All the tenors which came to fame after him (sorry folks, even such maestros as Pavarotti and Domingo) lack a certain quality in singing. It's the ease of breath flow, or singing on the breath without pushing the voice, it's the overtones, the legato, the mezza voce, the messa di voce and many more things - in short: the overall beauty of the voice through both registers. Wunderlich was the last tenor who had all this. Other examples are Caruso, McCormack, Gigli (despite the sobbing in his later recordings) and of course the wonderful Jussi Björling. But these are only some few names. If you listen for example to the cd's in the box "Famous tenors of the past" you will find that there were many very good and outstanding tenors in the first half of the 20'th century and - as we can only assume - in the time before the invention of the grammophone. Take a close look at todays famous tenors (I know, there are some quite good and promising ones) but what are they in comparison to those tenors (or better to say, to their voices and singing) I just mentioned before?

Please make your own decision.

Fritz Wunderlich can do no wrong...........2006-05-05

... okay, maybe. It's just that I've never heard a recording I didn't love. And I prefer that he sing everything in German even when that means not using original language.

This is a bit strange because I'm most often bugged by Don Carlos and Vepres in Italian (just a personal quirk). Of course, I'm also bugged by dropping the "s" in Don Carlos, which is always incorrect. The man's name IS Carlos whether in Italian or French.

I tried to write Mr. Avila a personal note, but could not, so let me say that Fritz Wunderlich did not die of cancer, but a dreadful accident in Scotland (I'll not go into the whys and wherefores, I just wanted to set PART of the record straight.)

The Wonder of Wunderlich.......2005-11-22

Deutsche Grammophone does it again! This is an extensive 3-cd compilation album featuring the artistry of the great German tenor Fritz Wunderlich in a variety of vocal repertoire - Baroque cantata/oratorio, opera and Lieder. Like the other critic pointed out, I first heard Fritz sinigng a superb Tamino in the Karl Bohm Magic Flute, although I have also heard him sing Lieder opposite the mezzo soprano Christa Ludwig and baritone Dietrich Fischer Dieskau, who were his contemporaries and colleagues. Wunderlich died tragically in 1966 of cancer. He inspired a generation of purely lyric tenors or "tenors di grazie" whose charming voice would never roughen and lack grace. His Germanic style earned him popularity in World War II Europe and he was the leading exponent of Lieder in the 50's. His tenor voice is glorious, as close to a male angel as possible. On this recording, we are treated to sumptuous arias from Bach's Christmas/Easter Oratorios, and movements from 2 cantatas. Also noteworthy are the unsurpassed performances of Mozart tenor heroes- such as Belmonte from "Die Entfuhrung Aus Dem Serail" (Abduction from the Seraglio) and his unbeatable Tamino from Die Zauberflote The Magic Flute. He sings bel canto opera arias fo tenor, from master composers Rossinni, Bellini and Verdi. While I don't much like that he is singing Italian arias in German, one must remember that at this time, in the LP Era of World War II Germany and Austria, German-born opera singers sang Italian opera in German translation/revisions. While many German singers could indeed sing in Italian, they were mostly trained to sing it in German because of excessive national pride and because Germans viewed Italian opera as course and un-melodic. Still, there have been superb German singers who sang in Italian like Wagner diva Birgit Nilsson,baritone Dietrich Fischer Dieskau, tenor Peter Schreier, soprano Edda Moser, baritone Walter Berry, tenor Herman Pretty, all post-Wunderlich sensations. Wunderlich sings Lieder in one CD with great and unrivaled musicianship. Especially impressive are the Viennese pieces. Further to the cd's this album is equipped with photos of Wunderlich and his family and a detailed profile biography.

I wish I could give this release more than 5 stars: it's terrific!!!.......2005-10-28

I knew little about the German tenor Fritz Wunderlich (1930-1966), except reading the accolades given to his recordings and performances by reviewers in "American Record Guide" over the past 13 years. I knew Wunderlich recorded the role of Tamino in the famous DG recording of Mozart's "Die Zauberflote", with Karl Bohm/Berlin Philharmonic (Now on DG Originals CDs), but was not aware of what a wide range of repertoire he had until hearing this release.

This release has a wide variety of Wunderlich's discography, including Bach arias from his Christmas and Easter Oratorios, and movements from 2 cantatas; his Mozart roles in "Die Entfuhrung aus dem Serail" (Eugen Jochum/Bavarian Radio Orchestra) and "Die Zauberflote" (Karl Bohm/Berlin Philharmonic); a variety of arias and duets by Rossini, Bellini, Verdi, Richard Strauss, mostly sung in German, and with Hermann Prey, baritone and Erika Koth, soprano in many of the duets; Baroque arias by Handel, from "Xerxes" (including the famous "Ombre mai fu" sung in German) and "Julius Caesar", selections from Monteverdi's "Orfeo" (an early track from 1955 sung in Italian); Schumann's "Dichterliebe", 4 Beethoven Lieder, including "Adelaide" and "Der Kuss"; and 9 Schubert lieder, including "An der Musik," and "Der Musensohn", all with Hubert Giesen, piano; Popular songs such as "Granada" and Viennese songs, with chamber orchestra accompaniment. There are no texts for the songs, but you may have text booklets with other CD releases, so don't really need them when you hear Wunderlich's beautiful voice.

There is a booklet with articles about Wunderlich's career, including a preface by his widow, Eva Wunderlich, photos of Wunderlich as a boy and young man, with his wife Eva in 1965, and children Constanze, Wolfgang, and Barbara. I enjoy reading and looking at the booklet, even apart from listening to the beautiful recordings.

Wunderlich was a genius, and his voice sounds great in every track, mono (some, but not a majority) and stereo (most of the tracks in the 7 discs are stereo) alike. If you love great music, and opera, but like me aren't often of a mind to sit still for 3 hours to listen to one, get this. It's a great release, and reasonably priced to boot. I'm thankful to God for great music, for the ability to hear and feel, and for Fritz Wunderlich and his service to music lovers everywhere.

Average customer rating:

The embodiment of FURY
Completely over the top!
Good alternative.
(No title).
An incredible recording! Gibbons' Alkan is superb!

Alkan: 12 Études, Op. 39

Manufacturer: Asv Living Era
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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Barcarolles | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Alkan: Sonate de Concert; Grand Duo Concertant; Piano Trio

ASIN: B0000030PK
Release Date: 1995-09-19

Tracks:

Etude No.1: Comme Le Vent
Etude No.2: En Rythme Molossique
Etude No.3: Scherzo Diabolico
Etude No.4: Sym-First Movt: Allegro
Etude No.5: Sym-Second Movt: Marche Funebre
Etude No.6: Sym-Third Movt: Menuet
Etude No.7: Sym-Fourth Movt: Finale
Nocturne in B, Op.22
Allegro Barbaro: Etudes, Op.35 No.5
Assez Vivement: Chants, Op.38 No.1
J'etait Endormie, Mais Mon Coeur Veillait: Prlds, Op.31 No.13
Le Staccatissimo: Esquisses, Op.63 No.2
Les Cloches: Esquisses, Op.63 No.4
Les Soupirs: Esquisses, Op.63 No.11
En Songe: Esquisses, Op.63 No.48
Gros Temps: Les Mois, Op.74 1st Ste No.1
Barcarolle: Chants, Op.65 No.6
La Chanson De La Folle Au Bord De La Mer: Prlds, Op.13 No.8
Le Temps Qui N'est Plus: Prlds, Op.31 No.12

Tracks:

Etude No.8: Con-First Movt: Allegro Assai
Etude No.9: Con-Second Movt: Adagio
Etude No.10: Con-Third Movt: Allegretto Alla Barberesca
Etude No.11: Ov
Etude No.12: Le Festin D'Esope

Amazon.com

Alkan's gargatuan Op. 39 Etudes embody a symphony (Etudes 4-7), a solo concertos (Etudes 8-10), an overture (No. 11), and a riotous set of 25 variations depicting the animals of Aesop's fables (No. 12, La festin d'Esope). The music demands boundless technique and stamina, which Jack Gibbons supplies in spades. He dives headfirst into the treacherous writing, letting the chips fall where they may. One can't really top Marc-Andre Hamelin's unflappable proficiency in the concertos, yet Gibbons rougher, leonine demeanor thrusts Alkan's Dionysiac qualities more to the fore. Bet you can't digest this yummy 12-plus course piano feast all in one sitting! --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

The embodiment of FURY.......2004-09-24

Gibbons' occasional technical vulnerabilities give these performances a human edge missing from hamelin's recordings. Alkan's op39 is music the pianist must fight with. Blood and sweat are a must. Its raw fury can be lost when cooly presented (ala Hamelin). The symphony finale oozes raw excitement under Gibbons' hands. Like in a disaster movie, we root for the protagonist and hope he survives through to the end. A most rewarding experience.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Completely over the top!.......2003-08-04

The main differences between this recording and the only other complete recording of the minor key etudes by Ronald Smith are:

1. Superior sound
2. A virtuosity that must be heard to be believed. Gibbons plays fast, Gibbons plays loud, Gibbons plays soft, Gibbons plays all the notes, and all the while Gibbons plays them musically! A truly remarkable performance of some very complex music.

But the recording by Smith has much going for it too. In an ideal world, if you're a fan of Alkan, get both recordings. I've got them both!

Good alternative........2002-11-02

It's a good alternative to Hamelin's recordings. With a really wilder approach!!

(No title)........2000-12-15

Comme Le Vent, Like the wind, is a firey, unrelenting deluge of notes which, if played at Alkan's specified metronome marking, travels at the rate of 160 bars per minute -- 20 densely packed pages in just 4'30," and Gibbons falls unbelievably only 7 seconds short! En Rhythm Molossique and Scherzo Diabolico, both technically wicked compositions, receive commanding and sure-footed performances. The Symphony further demonstates Gibbons proficiency in adherence to tempo and metronome markings inspite of taxing athletic and visceral demands, giving it a great sense of impetus, space, and drive. The Concerto, in his hands, is less classical and crisp than Hamelin's, but more wildly romantic; an extraordinary feat of virtuosity. Le festin d'Esope and Allegro Barbaro in all their fiendish and barbaric virtuosity get very poetic readings, very rare indeed... The more slow pieces all fall within the heartbeat, receiving sensitive, simple, and atmospheric performances... Gibbons is an Alkan interpreter of exceptional authority, and I cannot wait until his next release (of anything). In excellent sound, this very generous two-CD set is a TOP recommendation!

An incredible recording! Gibbons' Alkan is superb!.......1999-09-04

Alkan's Magnum Opus (39) has been seen recorded many times over the past years in part, as well as in whole. Jack Gibbons demonstrates that his interpretation of this monstrously challenging set stands at the very top of the list. Out of the 250+ CDs I own, I would have to say that this is the best. Gibbons' "Comme le Vent" is breathtakingly virtuostic and full of velocity. His "En Rythm Molossique" is a great wall of power and control, his "Scherzo Diabolique", feindish and scary. This recording of the "Symphonie" is fantastic, second only to Lewenthal's. His "Concerto" is very ordered, the finale a dazzling display of pianism (despite the missed note in the final black-key run). The "Ouverture" is the best recorded yet, and shows the true depth of Alkan's creations; I could write a review on just this piece! His "Festin" is a bit slow, but he never overexagerates the tempos. The other pieces added to the first disc ruin one's picture of the all-out-bravura crazed Alkan, replacing it with a sensitive, profound one. This CD is truly incredible. If you have any affection for Art Music whatsoever, this recording is a must have!

Poulenc - Melodies / Ameling · Gedda · W. Parker · Sénéchal · Souzay · Baldwin

Average customer rating:

Essential for the chansom junkie. Buy It.
Almost completely wonderful
Indisputable Gallic flair
Idiomatic, fresh, cleanly recorded
the best songs ever ruined by uneven performing

Poulenc - Melodies / Ameling · Gedda · W. Parker · Sénéchal · Souzay · Baldwin
Francis Poulenc , Dalton Baldwin , Elly Ameling , Gérard Souzay , Nicolai Gedda , Michel Sénéchal , and William Parker
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Debussy - Mélodies / Ameling · Mesplé · Command · Souzay · von Stade · Baldwin
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A French Song Companion
Véronique Gens - Nuit d'étoiles (Mélodies Française) / Vignoles
The Songs of Henri Duparc

ASIN: B000002S31
Release Date: 1992-01-23

Tracks:

LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: I - Le Dromadaire
LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: II - La Chevre Du Tibet
LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: III - La Sauterelle
LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: IV - Le Dauphin
LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: V - L'ecrevisse
LE BESTIAIRE OU CORTEGE D'ORPHEE: VI - La Carpe
COCARDES: I - Miel De Narbonne
COCARDES: II - Bonne D'enfant
COCARDES: III - Enfant De Troupe
5 POEMES DE RONSARD: I - Attributs
5 POEMES DE RONSARD: II - Le Tombeau
5 POEMES DE RONSARD: III - Ballet
5 POEMES DE RONSARD: IV - Je N'ai Plus Les Os
5 POEMES DE RONSARD: V - A Son Page
CHANSONS GAILLARDES: I - La Maitresse Volage
CHANSONS GAILLARDES: II - Chanson A Boire
CHANSONS GAILLARDES: III - Madrigal
CHANSONS GAILLARDES: IV - Invocation Aux Parques
CHANSONS GAILLARDES: V - Couplets Bachiques
CHANSONS GAILLARDES: VI - L'offrande
CHANSONS GAILLARDES: VII - La Belle Jeunesse
CHANSONS GAILLARDES: VIII - Serenade
AIRS CHANTES: I - Air Romantique
AIRS CHANTES: II - Air Champetre
AIRS CHANTES: III - Air Grave
AIRS CHANTES: IV - Air Vif
Epitaphe
3 POEMES DE LOUISE LALANNE: I - Le Present
3 POEMES DE LOUISE LALANNE: II - Chanson
3 POEMES DE LOUISE LALANNE: III - Hier
4 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: I - L'anguille
4 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: II - Carte Postale
4 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: III - Avant Le Cinema
4 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: IV - 1904
5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: I - Chanson Bretonne
5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: II - Cimetiere
5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: III - La Petite Servante
5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: IV - Berceuse
5 POEMES DE MAX JACOB: V - Souric Et Mouric
8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: I - La Couronne
8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: II - Le Depart
8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: III - Les Gars Polonais
8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: IV - Le Dernier Mazour
8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: V - L'adieu
8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: VI - Le Drapeau Blanc
8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: VII - La Vistule
8 CHANSONS POLONAISES: VIII - Le Lac

Tracks:

5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: I - Peut - Il Se Reposer?
5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: II - Il La Prend Dans Ses Bras
5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: III - Plume D'eau Claire
5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: IV - Rodeuse Au Front De Verre
5 POEMES DE PAUL ELUARD: V - Amoureuses
A Sa Guitare
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: I - Bonne Journee
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: II - Une Ruine Coquille Vide
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: III - Le Front Comme Un Drapeau Perdu
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: IV - Une Roulotte Couverte En Tuiles
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: V - A Toutes Brides
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: VI - Une Herbe Pauvre
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: VII - Je N'ai Envie Que De T'aimer
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: VIII - Figure De Force Brulante Et Farouche
TEL JOUR, TELLE NUIT: IX - Nous Avons Fait La Nuit
3 POEMES DE LOUISE DE VILMORIN: I - Le Garcon De Liege
3 POEMES DE LOUISE DE VILMORIN: II - Au-Dela
3 POEMES DE LOUISE DE VILMORIN: III - Aux Officiers De La Garde Blanche
2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: I - Dans Le Jardin D'anna
2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: II - Allons Plus Vite
MIROIRS BRULANTS: I - Tu Vois Le Feu Du Soir
MIROIRS BRULANTS: II - Je Nommerai Ton Front
Le Portrait
La Grenouillere
Priez Pour Paix
Ce Doux Petit Visage
Bleuet
FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: I - La Dame D'andre
FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: II - Dans L'herbe
FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: III - Il Vole
FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: IV - Mon Cadavre Est Doux Comme Un Gant
FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: V - Violon
FIANCAILLES POUR RIRE: VI - Fleurs

Tracks:

BANALITES: I - Chanson D'orkenise
BANALITES: II - Hotel
BANALITES: III - Fagnes De Wallonie
BANALITES: IV - Voyage A Paris
BANALITES: V - Sanglots
CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: I - Chanson Du Clair Tamis
CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: II - Les Gars Qui Vont A La Fete
CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: III - C'est Le Joli Printemps
CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: IV - Le Mendiant
CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: V - Chanson De La Fille Frivole
CHANSONS VILLAGEOISES: VI - Le Retour Du Sergent
METAMORPHOSES: I - Reine Des Mouettes
METAMORPHOSES: II - C'est Ainsi Que Tu Es
METAMORPHOSES: III - Paganini
2 POEMES DE LOUIS ARAGON: I - C
2 POEMES DE LOUIS ARAGON: II - Fetes Galantes
2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: I - Montparnasse
2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: II - Hyde Park
2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: I - Le Pont
2 POEMES DE GUILLAUME APOLLINAIRE: II - Un Poeme
Paul Et Virginie
Mais Mourir
Hymne
3 CHANSONS DE FEDERICO GARCIA LORCA: I - L'enfant Muet
3 CHANSONS DE FEDERICO GARCIA LORCA: II - Adelina A La Promenade
3 CHANSONS DE FEDERICO GARCIA LORCA: III - Chanson A L'oranger Sec
Le Disparu
Main Dominee Par Le Coeur
CALLIGRAMMES: I - L'espionne
CALLIGRAMMES: II - Mutation
CALLIGRAMMES: III - Vers Le Sud
CALLIGRAMMES: IV - Il Pleut
CALLIGRAMMES: V - La Grace Exilee
CALLIGRAMMES: VI - Aussi Bien Que Les Cigales
CALLIGRAMMES: VII - Voyage

Tracks:

Mazurka
LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: I - Rayon Des Yeux...
LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: II - Le Matin Les Branches Attisent...
LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: III - Tout Disparut...
LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: IV - Dans Les Tenebres Du Jardin...
LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: V - Unis La Fraicheur Et Le Feu...
LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: VI - Homme Au Sourire Tendre...
LA FRAICHEUR ET LE FEU: VII - La Grande Riviere Qui VA...
PARISIANA: Le Joueur De Bugle
PARISIANA: Vous N'ecrivez Plus?
Rosemonde
LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: I - Pablo Picasso
LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: II - Marc Chagall
LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: III - Georges Braque
LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: IV - Juan Gris
LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: V - Paul Klee
LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: VI - Joan Miro
LE TRAVAIL DU PEINTRE: VII - Jacques Villon
La Souris
Nuage
Dernier Poeme
Une Chanson De Porcelaine
LA COURTE PAILLE: I - Le Sommeil
LA COURTE PAILLE: II - Quelle Aventure!
LA COURTE PAILLE: III - La Reine De Coeur
LA COURTE PAILLE: IV - Ba, Be, Bi, Bo, Bu
LA COURTE PAILLE: V - Les Anges Musiciens
LA COURTE PAILLE: VI - Le Carafon
LA COURTE PAILLE: VII - Lune D'avril
Toreador
4 CHANSONS POUR ENFANTS: I - La Tragique Histoire Du Petit Rene
4 CHANSONS POUR ENFANTS: II - Nous Voulons Une Petite Soeur
4 CHANSONS POUR ENFANTS: III - Le Petit Garcon Trop Bien Portant
4 CHANSONS POUR ENFANTS: IV - Monsieur Sans-Souci
Fancy
Colloque

Customer Reviews:

Essential for the chansom junkie. Buy It........2006-10-25

'Poulenc Melodies' performed by a really impressive lineup of vocal talent including Elly Ameling and Nicolai Gedda is exactly the kind of recording you need if you are compulsive about having 'complete' collections of things. This shows a range of composition which smaller releases such as single CD 'Voyage a Paris' (Hyperion, with Felicity Lott and Graham Johnson)can give us. For starters, many of these chansom showed a lot more evidence of more modern stylings and a far greater range of interpretation. In fact, I even had to check the lyrics in the included booklet to verify that on some songs, the performers were singing in French. Even though I have a smattering of knowledge of French, I would have sworn that the singers were performing songs in Russian.

I am happy that all four discs run for more than 60 minutes. No cheap short changing here. If you don't want to spring for the large set, the Hyperion release is great, but this is worth every penny.

Almost completely wonderful.......2005-04-29

Its very considerable advantage lies in its completeness. Poulenc was one of the very greatest songwriters of any era. If you have no Poulenc songs in your collection, start here. The recommendation of Kruysen is a fine one, but only after you have heard this as a basis of comparison. Of Ameling, Senechal, Souzay, Gedda, and Parker, the only disappointment is Parker, who - I'll just say it - sings with his usual bleat. Souzay is a shade past it in vocal quality, but he still understands these songs as well as anybody, with great declamation (and that, after all, is what most of French singing is about). The dryness of the voice is nowhere close to disastrous, as it might have been in Italian opera. Indeed, it lends an air of life lived, without excuses. Gedda is okay. The standouts are Souzay, Ameling, and Senechal. Baldwin accompanies superbly.

Indisputable Gallic flair.......2004-06-06

These performances are piquant and stylistically right on target. Even if Souzay is past his best here, he brings a lifetime of experience to bear and the other performers are wonderful. Ignore the curmudgeon who blasted this set. You will enjoy this tremendously if you love Poulenc.

Idiomatic, fresh, cleanly recorded.......2001-05-12

This is a fine set. Dalton Baldwin accompanies each singer with clarity and zest. And who can resist the affectionate singing of the likes of Nicolai Gedda and Elly Ameling? The "melodies" themselves are magnificent--among Poulenc's finest creations. Whether you have other performances of these works or not, I think you'd be pleased with this beautifully recorded set. Certainly the 70's-vintage performances are more individual in profile, more "romantic," if you will, than those conjured by most of the "anonymous" singers of our own age. Recommended with enthusiasm.

the best songs ever ruined by uneven performing.......2001-05-05

This is a warning for all Poulenc fans NOT to take the bargain route and purchase this immense collection -- you might think you're getting a great deal but: the singing and pianism is substandard and doesn't do the music justice (remotely). Songs like Bonne Journe'e or Ho^tel are all but ruined... Here's what to buy: Bernard Kruysen's CD of selected Poulenc masterpieces (favoring the Elouard settings)... nobody will ever come close to Kruysen in interpreting Poulenc. Avoid THIS CD. They still get 2 stars for (1) being encyclical and (2) delivering clear and even sound quality.

Love's Illusion-Music From The Montpellier Codex 13th Century

Average customer rating:

Excellent Rendition of Early Music. Buy It.
Fun and full of love
from a newcomer viewpoint
Love's Illusion
OUTSTANDING

Love's Illusion-Music From The Montpellier Codex 13th Century
Anonymous 4 , and Marsha Genensky
Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Lily and the Lamb: Chant and Polyphony from Medieval England
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An English Ladymass: Medieval Chant and Polyphony
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La Bele Marie: Songs to the Virgin from 13th-Century France

ASIN: B0000007E5
Release Date: 1994-08-23

Tracks:

Montpellier Codex: Plus Bele Que Flor - Quant Revient - L'autrier Joer - Flos Filius (Mo 21)
Montpellier Codex: Puisque Bele Dame M'eime - Flos Filius (Mo 231)
Montpellier Codex: Amours Mi Font Souffrir - En Mai - Flos Filius (Mo 111)
Montpellier Codex: Ne Sai, Que Je Die - Iohanne (Mo 185)
Montpellier Codex: Si Je Chante - Bien Doi Amer - Et Sperabit (Mo 311)
Montpellier Codex: Or Ne Sai Je Que Devenir - Puisque D'amer - Kyrieleyson (Mo 267)
Montpellier Codex: H? Dieus, De Si Haut Si Bas - Maubatus - Cumque (Mo 92)
Montpellier Codex: Celui En Qui - La Bele Estoile - La Bele, En Qui - Iohanne (Mo 20)
Montpellier Codex: Qui D'amours Se Plaint - Lux Magna (Mo 215)
Montpellier Codex: Amours, Dont Je Sui - L'autrier, Au Douz Mois - Chose Tassin (Mo 270)
Montpellier Codex: Au Cuer Ai Un Mal - Ja Ne M'en Repentirai - Jolietement (Mo 260)
Montpellier Codex: Quant Voi La Fleur - Et Tenuerunt (Mo 241)
Montpellier Codex: Quant Se Depart - Onques Ne Sai Amer - Docebit Omnem (Mo 131)
Montpellier Codex: Joliement - Quant Voi La Florete - Je Sui Joliete - Aptatur (Mo 34)
Montpellier Codex: Amor Potest Conqueri - Ad Amorem Sequitur (Mo 238)
Montpellier Codex: Ce Que Je Tieng - Certes Mout - Bone Compaignie - Manere (Mo 33)
Montpellier Codex: J'ai Si Bien Mon Cuer Assiz - Aucun M'ont - Angelus (Mo 128)
Montpellier Codex: Ne M'oubliez Mie - Domino (Mo 236)
Montpellier Codex: J'ai Mis Toute Ma Pensee - Je N'en Puis - Puerorum (Mo 255)
Montpellier Codex: Blanchete - Quant Je Pens - Valare (Mo 168)
Montpellier Codex: Dame, Qeu Je N'os Noumer - Amis Donc Est - Lonc Tans A (Mo 337)
Montpellier Codex: Li Savours De Mon Desir - Li Grant Desir - Non Veul Mari (Mo 323)
Montpellier Codex: Entre Copin - Je Me Cuidoie - Bele Ysabelos (Mo 256)
Montpellier Codex: S'on Me Regarde - Prenn?s I Garde - H?, Mi Enfant (Mo 223)
Montpellier Codex: Quant Yver La Bise Ameine - In Seculum (Mo 223)
Montpellier Codex: Ne M'a Pas Oubli? - In Seculum (Mo 207)
Montpellier Codex: On Doit Fin[e] Amor - La Biaut? - In Seculum (Mo 134)
Montpellier Codex: Ja N'amerai Autre Que Cele - In Seculum (Mo 3)
Montpellier Codex: Quant Je Parti De M'amie - Tuo (Mo 200)

Amazon.com essential recording

How's this for a concept: "True love may exist only outside of marriage, and a man must subject himself totally to the will of his beloved, whether or not her requests seem rational." If you think these ideas strange, be glad you weren't looking for love in France in the Middle Ages. These precepts course through thousands of song lyrics and love poetry during the 12th and 13th centuries and some of them appear on this exceptional recording by Anonymous 4. Specifically, these four women perform 13th century French motets found in an important manuscript known as the Montpellier Codex. These polyphonic works span the entire century and thus express a variety of styles. Sometimes the use of texts is striking, as when a love song, a diatribe against hypocrisy, and a rousing drinking song are sung simultaneously. Not bad, if you can get away with it. Anonymous 4 can-and does. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Rendition of Early Music. Buy It........2005-10-29

`Love's Illusion' is the third album done by the medieval vocal quartet, `Anonymous 4' and the first recording for them of secular motets, although it is important to note that to my relatively uneducated ear, I find it hard to discern the difference between these French love songs and their renditions of medieval church music.

This is not to say I have a totally tin ear but rather to indicate that there is as strong or stronger connection between these secular songs and the liturgical music of the day as there is between Aretha Franklin's soul singing and Southern Baptist church songs. One would be foolish to think that church music influenced secular music for the first time in 1956.

The text for these songs is based on the Montpellier Codex from the 13th century and, as I said, are all in what I believe is an early version of French. The accompanying booklet gives all the French lyrics, plus translations of these lyrics into English and German (since the record company, harmonia mundi, is, I believe, headquartered in Germany and the recording is manufactured in Germany.

While this is the first album I have reviewed by this group (named after an anonymous 13th century English writer on music who lived and worked in Paris and wrote about the music done) I have been listening to their recordings for several years now and I decided to start with this one and leave some of the liturgical works for later, closer to the Christmas season.

On a purely visceral level, I like this recording very much. On an intellectual level, I believe this is as good or better than any other medieval pieces, and most other Renaissance vocal pieces I have heard, except for some works with larger choruses such as Guillaume Du Fay's Mass for St. Anthony of Padua and Ensemble Gilles Binchois recording of eleventh century French Polyphony.

For those who are new to Anonymous 4 recordings, they are generally done not in a studio but in the nave of a large church, so there is a distinct sense of their singing in a great open space, with little or no sense of electronic enhancement. I really like this effect for this music and find it just one more reason to recommend this and other Anonymous 4 recordings. I think my highest recommendation comes from the fact that I can listen to this recording many times over and not become tired of it. There are other unusual types of music such as Russian chants, tangos, and even jazz which I can take for an hour or so and then must change. This material I can listen to for hours on end.

Highly recommended for fans of early music or for people who want something different.

Fun and full of love.......2005-10-13

This is a wonderful collection of chansons, or songs, from medieval France. It is different from many Anonymous 4 collections in that this is a piece of secular songs, primarily dealing with courtly love; the songs are particularly influenced by the Arthurian romances, very much in vogue at that time. This is a collection of motets - a musical style that came out of polyphony and is an important bridge between chant and modern song styling.

The Montpellier Codex has over 300 different motets (not including duplications), including many double motets, where the tenor piece is based on a plainchant, and different voices have their own texts. These 'fin amours' songs were most likely performed mostly in private entertainment settings, and song have argued that certain parts should be done by instruments rather than voices. Of course, the Anonymous 4 is an a capella group, so that idea does not come into practice here.

This is a playful and fun recording, full of lovely songs that reach the heart in strong ways.

-- Liner Notes --
This text accompaniment to this disc is very full, so much so that the booklet is not contained within the jewel case, but rather within a slipcover in which both the CD/jewel case and the booklet reside. The liner notes include a description of the work, a brief piece about the quartet, and the lyrics of the songs both in original language and in translation - all repeated in English, German, and French sections (however, the French lyrics are in the older French language; a modern translation would be helpful). The cover art is a section of the lovely Tapestry, Lady and the Unicorn, Atelier of the Loire Valley, 'mille fleurs', fifteen century in the Museum of Cluny, France.

-- Anonymous 4 --
Contrary to the implication of their name, the Anonymous 4 are not anonymous. This is a vocal quartet made up of Ruth Cunningham, Marsha Genensky, Susan Hellauer, and Johanna Rose at the time of this recording (Ruth Cunningham will later go on to a solo career early, and another member will join - Jacqueline Horner). They came together as a formal group in 1986, and have been ensemble-in-residence at St. Michael's Church in New York City, giving concert series in New York as well as throughout North America. They have been featured a number of times on national media in North America as well as Germany. They then went on to yet more success, eventually performing more that 1000 concerts worldwide.

Their specialty is working with chant, monophonic and polyphonic music, and working with medieval texts. According to one source, 'The group takes its name from an anonymous music theorist of the late 13th century, Anonymous IV, who is the principal source on the two famous composers of the Notre Dame school, Léonin and Pérotin.'

The group ended a touring career of nearly two decades in 2004.

from a newcomer viewpoint.......2003-02-23

LOVE'S ILLUSION is one of those uncanny instances that make tradition more unusual than avant-garde. Having two to four texts in an archaic language sung on top of each other makes the album at once chaotic and highly ordered. Some texts were clearly written after one another (cf. track 24), whereas others have but a random connection. Harmonically, however, everything falls into place.
I'm still fairly new to classical music, so I can only speak of my attempts at overcoming my difficulties in listening to mediaeval polyphony. When one knows any piece of music has a text, one wants to be able to hear the words - even if one doesn't know the language -, and this is main reason why a first listening of LOVE'S ILLUSION may be disturbing, if not annoying. One initial solution is to think of it as instrumental, and take the words for granted; I suggest also repeated listening of your favorite tracks, while trying to follow one singer's voice, with booklet in hand. I have paid some attention to this record and I believe it has helped me.
The major flaw of this record is not presenting a translation of the 13th century French songs into contemporary French. The difference is indeed quite astounding.

Love's Illusion.......2002-12-11

Overall: Monotonous, irritating. I had a headache after only three cuts, and the cut I really wanted is barely recognizable as the melody of interest. Let's just say that this is a sound (i.e., all female vocals, no instrumental variety), regardless of performers, that I do not go looking for.

OUTSTANDING.......2001-01-11

This is an excellent recording of some of the most beautiful music from the 13th Century. The vocal quartet "Anonymous 4" does a superb job, especially considering the entire CD is sung in Old French. This may well be the most peaceful and reaxing CD you will ever own.

Average customer rating:

Excellent 1953 version emphasizes musicality over drama

Bizet: Les pêcheurs de perles

Manufacturer: Opera D'oro
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Léopold Simoneau: Opera Arias & Duets

ASIN: B0006VXLOK
Release Date: 2005-02-15

Tracks:

Introduction - Orchestra Des Concerts Lamoureux
Sur La Greve Un Feu - Elisabeth Brasseur Choir
Amis, Interrompez Voz Danses
Demeure Parmi Nous, Nadir
C'est Toi
Au Fond Du Temple Saint
Que Vois-Je?
Sois Le Bienvenue - Elisabeth Brasseur Choir
Seule Au Milieu De Nous... Brahma, Divin Brahma
A Cette Voix
Ke Crois Entendre Encore
Le Ciel Est Bleu
O Dieu Brahma... Dans Le Ciel Sans Voile

Tracks:

L'ombre Descend Des Cieux - Xavier Depraz
Me Voila Seule Dans La Nuit... Comme Autrefois - Pierette Alaire
De Mon Amie
Leila, Leila!... Dieu Puissant... Ton Coeur N'a Pas Compris Le Mien
Ah! Revenez A La Raison... O Nuit D'epouvante
L'orage S'est Calme... O Nadir, Tendre Ami De Mon Jeune Age - Rene Bianco
Qu'ai-je Vu?... Je Fremis, Je Chancelle - Pierette Alarie
Entends Au Loin Ce Bruit De Fete - Pierette Alarie
Des Que Le Soleil - Elisabeth Brasseur Choir
Sombres Divinites
O Lumiere Sainte
Ce Sont Eux, Les Voici... Plus De Crainte

Customer Reviews:

Excellent 1953 version emphasizes musicality over drama.......2005-08-08

Source: Studio recording made in October 1953.

Sound: Generally good 1950s mono. (Opera d'Oro issues are always iffy on matters of sound, ranging from very good to appallingly bad. They are generally much safer bets when based on studio recordings, as is the case here, than on live performances.)

Text: Standard text adopted with the first revivals of the opera, some years after Bizet's death.

Cast: Nadir - Leopold Simoneau; Zurga - Rene Bianco; Leila - Pierette Alarie; Nourabad - Xavier Depraz. Conductor: Jean Fournet.

Documentation: No libretto. Short plot summary. Track list.

This performance provided my first recording of "Les Pecheurs de perles," acquired more than forty-five years ago on Lp from some obscure European publisher. Having stumbled upon a CD version of the old warhorse, I was greatly pleased to find that it is as good as I had remembered it to be.

By 1863, the 25 year-old Bizet had already set his hand to incidental music to "L'Arlesienne," the requisite Sir Walter Scott opera, "La jolie fille de Perth" and an oriental opera, "Djamileh." He had not yet wrung the hankering for exoticism out of his system, so he embarked on a new opera to be set in pre-Columbian Mexico. With youthful folly, he began writing the music before his two hack librettists, Michel Carre and Eugene Cormon, had figured out a finish for the play. Even before the lack of a finale became a crisis, a major change had to be incorporated. It seems that the "Pearlfishers" team had been beaten in the race to put on an Aztec play in Paris. Since Carre and Cormon had probably known nothing at all about Meso-American empires, it is likely they had no qualms about shifting their story to another place they knew nothing about, Ceylon. Carré and Cormon never did come up with a logical finish, so they just set things on fire and let the doomed lovers depart into the sunset, providing a dramatic arc to "The Pearlfishers" that makes "Il trovatore" look like a textbook example of a well-made play.

I had remembered the star of the recording to be the tenor, Leopold Simoneau, and so he is. Simoneau had a voice of no great size but of surpassing sweetness and elegance. I have seen him described as a latter day Tito Schipa. To some extent he was, but Simoneau was a true vocal technician, far more skillful than that charming old con man, Schipa. Simoneau's Nadir is more focused on the beauty of the musical line than on drama. In this most lyrical of Bizet's operas, it works.

What I had not remembered about this recording was Pierette Alarie. Alarie was a formidable lieder singer who was married to Simoneau and who made many recordings with him. By operatic standards, her voice was small, but it was beautifully pure, precisely focused and amazingly agile, a sort of Francophone Roberta Peters. (For those familiar with Webber's "Phantom of the Opera," Alarie was precisely the type of singer for the role of the Phantom's young protegee.) All those years ago, I was busy being bowled over by Milanov, Tebaldi, Nilsson and Sutherland, so I foolishly discounted Alarie's smaller voice. While I still hold those ladies in highest esteem, this time, when I bought the CD, I actually listened to Alarie and I was amazed. This was particularly true of the closing number of the First Act, "O dieu Brahma." In every other performance that I have seen or heard, heavier-voiced sopranos make this prayer pleasant enough but nothing to compete with the acknowledged big numbers of the act, "Au fond du temple saint," and "Je crois entendre encore." Alarie's version is a revelation. With her lieder singer's discrimination and her phenomenal vocal agility, Alarie offers up a bel canto-like gem.

The Zurga of this set, while good, was simply not in the class of Simoneau and Alarie. René Bianco had a baritone voice that was pleasant but not at all commanding, not the best thing for portraying a character who is all assertiveness. The slight fuzziness of his vocal production kept Bianco from being an equal with the super-focused Simoneau and Alarie in the ensembles.

Nourabad is a thankless part, placed in the opera merely to keep the plot ticking. I remember nothing about any Nourabad I have seen or heard in the past. I remember nothing about Xavier Depraz beyond the obvious fact that he was not bad enough to make me remember him for that reason.

The first time I listened to these CDs, I found myself puzzled by the conducting. Jean Fournet was a big name in the French repertory in the years straddling World War II. As I had been particularly impressed by his dramatic "Samson et Dalila," the comparative looseness of dramatic tension here seemed odd. After comparing his version of "The Pearlfishers" with those of Rosenthal, Dervaux and Pretre, I think it probable that there was mutual agreement among Fournet, Simoneau and Alarie to downplay melodrama in favor of musicality, to take a miniaturist, even lieder-like approach. Of the four conductors, Fournet is the most precise and the most French. "The Pearlfishers" may take place on exotic Ceylon, but Jean Fournet's Ceylon is firmly anchored in the Seine, not many meters downstream from the Cathedral of Notre Dame.

This is an excellent "Pearlfishers." This version and the excellent 1959 live version conducted by Manuel Rosenthal (Gala GL 100.504), which emphasizes the drama of the opera, should be in any serious collection.

Five stars.

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