c'est la vie

1. C'est La Vie

2. Que C'est Triste Venise

3. Rumba Poupurri

4. David & Sebastian

5. A Manolo San Lucar

6. La Galleguita

7. Torna Sorrento

8. Tell Me Why

9. 25 Years

10. Historia De Un Amor

11. Para 'Astor Piazzola'

12. Go 'Seb' Go

13. Palermo

14. Ocean Waves

15. Never Ending Waves

c'est la vie,Alex Fox,Msi,Latin Pop/Rock

Average customer rating: LETTER PERFECT CLASS(ICAL) ACT! Great Tracks -- Great Value -- Great Book, Who Can Complain? At this price, how can one complain?

A to Z of Classical Music Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. 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Stores | Music Weber, Carl Maria von | ( W ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Arts: World Themes A - Z of Opera (includes 762 page booklet) Walden and Other Writings Twentieth-Century World History Leisure The Basis Of Culture ASIN: B00004YYRT Release Date: 2000-10-17

Tracks:

1. De Profundis - Nova Schola Gregoriana
2. Alleluia - O Virga Mediatrix - Oxford Camerata
3. Gloria - Oxford Camerata
4. Pavane - Red Byrd
5. Canon - Capella Istropolitana
6. Vivace - Grave - Capella Istropolitana
7. Prelude - Laurence Cummings
8. Allegro - Takako Nishizaki
9. Adagio - Miroslav Kejmar
10. Air On The G String - Capella Istropolitana
11. Hallelujah Chorus - Scholars Baroque Ensemble
12. Menuetto: Allegretto - Capella Istropolitana
13. Andante - Failoni Orchestra
14. Allegro - Capella Istropolitana
15. Adagio - Jeno Jando
16. Andante - Ernst Ottensamer
17. Quis Est Homo - Hungarian State Opera Chorus

Tracks:

1. Ave Maria - Ingrid Kertesi
2. Un Bal - Pinchas Steinberg
3. Wedding March - Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
4. Minute Waltz - Idil Biret
5. Larghetto - Alexander Rahbari
6. Ride Of The Valkyries - Uwe Mund
7. Prelude - Alexander Rahbari
8. Hungarian Dance No.3 - Budapest Symphony
9. Scene - Ondrej Lenard
10. Slavonic Dance No.1 - Balazs Szokolay
11. Nimrod - Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
12. Clair De Lune - Keith Clark
13. Also Sprach Zarathustra (Opening) - Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
14. Prelude In C Sharp Minor - Idil Biret
15. Fountain Of The Villa Medici At Sunset - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
16. Overture - Bournemouth Sinfonietta
17. O Fortuna - Slovak Philharmonic Chorus
18. Playful Pizzicato - Bournemouth Sinfonietta
19. Violin Concerto - Adele Anthony

Amazon.com

Is it a two-CD set with a particularly thick booklet, or a 562-page book with a compilation album attached? Either way, the unpretentious text by Keith Anderson offers an introduction to the lives and works of dozens of composers, together with recommended recordings from the Naxos and Marco Polo catalogs. Anderson includes a useful 59-page glossary of musical terms and an extensive listing of classical pieces used in films. The odd thing about the 36 extracts and complete pieces on the CDs is that they do not form an A-to-Z at all. Rather, they are arranged chronologically, from 1,000-year-old Gregorian chant to the opening movement of contemporary composer Philip Glass's Violin Concerto. Between these two points is the early music of Palestrina and Byrd; the Baroque glories of Vivaldi and Bach; the 19th-century Romantic masters, from Beethoven to Tchaikovsky; and such 20th-century greats as Rachmaninov and Stravinsky. Opera, song, and chamber music are barely represented, but only so much can fit into 151 minutes. Essentially a deluxe sampler of the vast Naxos catalogue, the discs offer a good introduction to some of the most famous and melodic music ever composed, while the book will be very useful to newcomers to the potentially confusing world of classical music. --Gary S. Dalkin

Album Description

A-Z of Classical Music is a remarkable 562-page, illustrated bok, detailing the lives of all the great composers as well as many less known, but equally fascinating, musical masters. Like the Naxos range of recording itself, A-Z of Classical Music is a rich source of inspiration for anyone either just embarking on a lifetime of musical enjoyment or for whom classical music has long been a way of life. Included within is an extensive glossary of musical terms plus a unique guide to classical music used in acclaimed films. Two-and-a-half hours of the finest music from across the centuries are contained in the accompanying CDs.

Customer Reviews:

LETTER PERFECT CLASS(ICAL) ACT!.......2003-01-19

It's only natural we sometimes hit the high seas....make that Cs. This is one box set about which we sing praises. This set features more than two hours of the finest music from across the centuries by such composers as Schubert, Chopin, Mozart, Handel, Stravinsky and Glass. The set also comes with a 562-page illustrated book, detailing the lives of hundreds of composers, a
glossary of musical terms and a unique guide to the classical music used in 360 top films.

Great Tracks -- Great Value -- Great Book, Who Can Complain?.......2002-08-30

Naxos is a fabulous label -- you will not get samples of the best classical music through the ages at no better price. These tracks are as good as any of the over-priced major orchestras and in some cases better. This is a great starter set for a beginner or anyone who just wants to "taste" the classics. If you prefer Opera I would suggest the A to Z of Opera -- most of the tracks on A to Z Classical are orchestral. I was so impressed with this collection that I purchased the Discover the Classics Vol's 1-3 which will give you a more detailed look at the great classics. Take a look at the Naxos web site at NAXOSUSA.COM -- what you will see will blow your mind -- there are literally thousands of pieces that you could listen too!

At this price, how can one complain?.......2001-09-30

This is pretty much a CD version of a mini-Naxos and Marco Polo catalog. All the pieces and extracts are ordered chronologically on the 2 CDs and are of very acceptable quality, but don't expect excellence in every track. Personally, I was particularly disappointed with one of my favourite Pachelbel pieces. The Naxos Canon & Gigue lacks all the emotion of my favourite versions.

Still, any possible weaker performances are of little importance after you get your hands on the fat booklet with over 500 pages. The booklet offers a short intro about the great composers, a glossary of musical terms, a list of works used in films and dozens of illustrations of several composers.

Overall, at this price, this is a must-have pack for any beginner, and might be useful for the occasion "quick check" of the work of many composers. Do not expect many detail, nor references to all the works of some composers; I often got frustrated with the lack of detail in some cases, but in general, the booklet is very effective for a quick reference.
You will need more titles that offer more complete information, and you won't truly learn to love classical music just by reading it, but it is small and compact.

It really puzzles me why Naxos did not include a full index of composers, a serious omission. To find a particular composer you will have to look for it yourself in over 500 pages. Also, the separation of the text is not so good, making the search even a bit slower. The lack of the index is truly annoying and I am sure it will be corrected in future editions.

Even with a few weaker pieces and the lack of the index, at this price, there isn't much to argue about. This is truly a bargain that you should not miss. I would also recommend the A-Z of Opera, which offers a bigger booklet with over 700 pages, focusing on opera works and mentioning several composers that are absent from the A-Z of Classical. That other booklet has a very complete index, and much clearer text layout and separation, that's the way both booklets should have been designed.

The two sets complement each other very well. Highly recommended.

Average customer rating: Valuable compendium Rareties available on CD at last! Heavenly WHO ELSE CAN SING LIKE THIS TODAY?

The Art of Joan Sutherland Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Arne | Arne, Thomas Augustin | ( A ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Bellini, Vincenzo | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Delibes, Léo | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Paisiello | Paisiello, Giovanni | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Piccinni, Niccolò | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Thomas | Thomas, Ambroise | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Weber | Weber, Carl Maria von | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Academy of Ancient Music | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Sutherland, Dame Joan | ( S ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music National Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | 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 Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Odes | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Joan Sutherland: BBC-Recitals 1958, 1960, 1961 The Art of the Prima Donna Serate Musicali The Voice of the Century La Stupenda ~ The Supreme Voice of Joan Sutherland ASIN: B000654OUQ Release Date: 2005-03-15

Customer Reviews:

Valuable compendium.......2007-01-24

This set is extremely valuable, not only as an overview of Dame Joans career but because it contains three complete LP sets that have been very hard to find. The sets are the 2 LP French opera (operetta) set, the Mozart album and the Wagner album. Although some of these do not show her to her best advantage (the Wagner set) they all have some very beautiful things and the French items are superb. The annotations and photos are interesting as well and there are some piano songs with Bonynge that are released here for the first time along with a scene from a live Covent Garden Norma.

Rareties available on CD at last!.......2006-03-29

While Joan Sutherland has recorded a number of impressive aria collections throughout the many years of her recording career, they tend to get lost in the shuffle of the countless reissues Decca/London has endlessly repackaged. While some of the original collections have appeared intact on CD--"The Art of the Prima Donna," "The Age of Bel Canto," "Love Live Forever" (her operetta collection that was originally titled "The Golden Age of Operetta"), to name a few--others are currently represented in the CD catalogue by only a few selections on discs that also include excerpts from complete opera recordings or duplicates of selections from other original collections. As a result, it has been impossible to assemble a CD collection of her recordings without a LOT of duplication, and some of the most interesting collections are still unavailable (e.g. "Command Performance" and "Serate Musicale").

While this newest set does include a lot of bits of this and that, ranging from her very first LPs to excerpts from complete recordings most Sutherland fans already have and a few "live" performances, what is perhaps most significant about it is that it features the complete contents of the "Sutherland Sings Wagner" LP--a real repertoire departure for her--and the double-LP album called "French Opera Gala" (in the U.S.--the British title was "Romantic French Arias"), neither of which, to the best of my knowledge, has been available on CD before. "Opera News" magazine once ran an article in which they asked various stars to name the one album that they felt best represented their artistry for future generations, and Dame Joan selected the "French Opera Gala," so for Sutherland fans, this is a long-awaited treat.

I'm not going to waste space saying how miraculous I consider Dame Joan's artistry. If you are familiar with her work already, you know whether you adore her or not; and if you aren't, this massive set is probably not the best place to start (that would be "The Art of the Prima Donna" album that introduced her to most listeners decades ago)--especially since this newest set doesn't contain the lyrics, a must for newcomers. Let's hope Decca/London gets around to releasing the rest of her recordings intact instead of endlessly scrambling and repackaging the same selections over and over.

Heavenly.......2006-01-31

I first heard of Dame Sutherland while on the internet while listening to a internet radio station. I was instantly a fan, her control, technique, and tone is perfectly executed and rivals the equally fantastic Maria Callas. She has a powerful voice and presence that will evoke every emotion from her listeners. Highly recommended to all Opera Diva fans.

WHO ELSE CAN SING LIKE THIS TODAY?.......2005-04-10

This is Decca's second multi disc evaluation of this fantastic singer's long career and many recordings. True that a lot on the first set is duplicated here, but there are a few exceptions here and there that make it a worthy addition. Of particular interest are the very early items of Handel and Italian baroque arias, some forgotten song recordings and a live performance of the duet from Norma. It can't be said too many times - who can sing like this today? For sheer vocalism it's hard to find anyone on the same wavelength. This set will give very young opera goers an idea of what they missed.

Average customer rating: Just great luck Lively and Fun all the world's a sunny day Speaking in Universal Tongues WHAT A JOY!

C'est la Vie Henri Dikongué Manufacturer: Tinder ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Cameroon | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | Africa | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Africa | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Wa Mot'a Bobe Biso Nawa Scenes from My Life Toyebi Te ASIN: B000006F4G Release Date: 1998-03-17

Tracks:

1. Ndutu
2. Ndol'asu
3. C'Est La Vie
4. Na Tem Ite Idiba
5. Na Teleye Owa Ngea
6. We Nde Mba
7. Bulu Bo Windi Tenge
8. Francoise
9. A Mumi
10. Wen Te Mba Wenge
11. Douala

Amazon.com

Don't mistake Dikongué's music for the Afro Beat sounds of makossa, the national pop music of his home, Cameroon. He holds a musical ethic much closer to Pierre Akendengue or Francis Bebey--one where poetry and mood prevail over groove and danceability. This guitarist has integrated not only the Afro-Parisian sound, but allows Latin, Caribbean, and other regions of Africa to flow naturally into his compositions and playing style. It all seems effortless, almost breezy, but there is an underlying poetic complexity that makes the music almost impossible to ignore. Even the "dance tracks" have a suave sophistication and worldliness, a loveliness that is almost unknown to most fans of "African" music. The songs here modulate between simple solo guitar and voice ballads to fuller bands with violin, kit drums, and bass, occasionally allowing even some brass to insinuate itself into the mix. There are one or two saccharine moments, but the intrusion is minimal. Dikongué's sweet, quavering voice and direct acoustic guitar are always front and center, delivering the goods direct to the heart first, and the feet after. --Louis Gibson

Customer Reviews:

Just great luck.......2005-09-13

....led me to clamp on a pair of headphones at Hear Music. Whoa! Track after beautiful track. Lyrical, gorgeous. Makes you want to lie back and let the music wash over you. You'll love it.

Lively and Fun.......2003-08-17

This CD always brings my mood up by many points. It is something different!

all the world's a sunny day.......2002-09-01

I acquired this CD more or less by accident, discovering it at a record store sound station in the world music section. I immediately loved the easy-going, colorful songs and joyful sound of Henri Dikongue's voice. They represent for me what is enjoyable about so many West African performers and the rhythms and instrumentation of their music.

After listening to this CD several times, I realized that both singer and songs remind me somewhat of Paul Simon in what I think of as his "Kodachrome" period. The songs are upbeat, bright, and cheerful, and they have an engaging way of insisting that "all the world's a sunny day." I've listened to this CD many, many times and have never grown tired of a single cut on it. It's a rich musical offering for both ear and heart. A companion African pop artist whose work I've found equally accessible is Kanda Bongo Man from Congo.

Speaking in Universal Tongues.......2002-01-04

One can best appreciate the universality of music when listening to artists who sing in a language that one does not understand. One can focus on the sensuality of the voice as another instrument in the arrangement, and bask in the enveloping images. Rarely have I heard a recording that makes this more possible than "C'est La Vie". Dikongue has produced a work of brash introspection and curiously raw sophistication, meticulous simplicity and placid bounciness, if any of this makes sense. It doesn't so much make me dance as sway and just generally groove. The songwriting, melodies, arrangements and production are all far superior to and intimate than his other currently available works. With an understanding that this CD is a consistent effort with no weak links, the strongest cuts are "Ndol'asu" with its swinging rhythms and violins, "Na Tem Ite Idiba", the memorable melody and group vocals of "Na Teleye Owa Ngea", the soaring "We Nde Mba", and "Francoise". If you like world music but would prefer a sample that accentuates the internal beat of the soul while still swinging, "C'est La Vie" is worth many listens.

WHAT A JOY!.......2000-12-07

This cd represents everything that I love about African music -- the energy, the instrumentation, the absolute beauty of Dikongue's voice. The arrangements are wonderful -- bouyant but not too heavy -- and carry the listener along so effortlessly that the cd is over before you know it (but it's a generous near-60 minute journey). I missed him when he came to Austin last year -- a big disappointment for me, but maybe I'll see him next time. If you enjoy ANY aspect of African music, you owe it yourself to check this out. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Average customer rating: Made an impression An exceptional talent! Not to be missed! This is in the top 3 of my 1000 cd collection Absolutely beautiful instrumental work ! Spice up your music selection with Alex Fox........

c'est la vie Manufacturer: Msi ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music International | Imports | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: fly away personality Malaguena Fox Trio Influences ASIN: B00000GW9Z Release Date: 1997-11-07

Tracks:

1. C'est La Vie
2. Que C'est Triste Venise
3. Rumba Poupurri
4. David & Sebastian
5. A Manolo San Lucar
6. La Galleguita
7. Torna Sorrento
8. Tell Me Why
9. 25 Years
10. Historia De Un Amor
11. Para 'Astor Piazzola'
12. Go 'Seb' Go
13. Palermo
14. Ocean Waves
15. Never Ending Waves

Customer Reviews:

Made an impression.......2001-10-18

I saw Alex perform on Ocean Drive in Miami and bought this CD. It has such flavor. It is great as background music for a festive party. I lent it to a friend and they never returned it. I am excited to see it here and loved it enough to buy it again.

An exceptional talent! Not to be missed!.......2000-03-10

This and every CD he has produced is perfection. The only experience better than hearing his music is to see & meet Mr. Alex Fox and his lovely, talented dancer Liza in person. Well worth it to catch them in South Miami Beach. These five stars can be applied to every album he has made!

This is in the top 3 of my 1000 cd collection.......1999-10-06

Very original. This cd takes you away. From romantic to rhythmic, it has it all. All my friends that hear this cd want to know more about it. Where has this guy "Alex Fox" been hiding? He definately has the talent to be up there in the charts. I wish him the best.

Absolutely beautiful instrumental work !.......1999-05-13

With this cd, Alex Fox plays some lovely (many original) Latin and Mediterranean songs. The music here is smooth, but never bland - Mr. Fox is too talented and too passionate for that. Especially evocative are "Torna Sorrento" and "Para Astor Piazzolla." This is the fourth of his five cd's, and the first one I've heard that is totally instrumental. All of the songs are beautiful, but I miss Mr Fox's singing as heard on his other cd's!

Spice up your music selection with Alex Fox...............1999-04-04

What a variety, what style! If you are not fortunate enough to see this guy perform live make sure you at least purchase his cd's. They are all FANTASTIC.

Average customer rating: Lapsing Faith and Lost Beauty Stylish Thais Set AN UNDER-APPRECIATED GEM A fad Lovely but too late

Massenet: Thaïs / Sills, Milnes, Gedda; Maazel Jules Massenet , Lorin Maazel , Beverly Sills , Nicolai Gedda , New Philharmonia Orchestra , John Alldis Choir , Sherrill Milnes , and Norma Burrowes Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Maazel, Lorin | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Massenet: La Navarraise / Horne, Domingo, Milnes, Bacquier, Zaccaria, Davies, LSO, Lewis Massenet: Le Cid (Complete) [Germany] Massenet: Manon Bellini: I Capuleti e i Montecchi Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor: Complete Opera (with full libretto and translation) ASIN: B000002S67 Release Date: 1995-09-26

Tracks:

1. Thais: Act I - Scene I : Voici le pain...Et le sel (Cenobites, Palemon)
2. Thais: Act I - Scene I : Le voici! Le voici! (Cenobites, Athanael, Palemon)
3. Thais: Act I - Scene I : Helas! enfant encore (Athanael)
4. Thais: Act I - Scene I : Ne nous melons jamais, mon fils (Palemon, Cenobites, Athanael)
5. Thais: Act I - Scene I : Vision (Orchestre)
6. Thais: Act I - Scene I : Toi, qui mis la pitie dans nos ames (Athanael)
7. Thais: Act I - Scene I : Mon fils, ne nous melons jamais (Palemon, Athanael, Cenobites)
8. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Prelude (Orchestre)
9. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Va, mendiant chercher ailleurs ta vie! (Serviteur, Athanael)
10. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Voila donc la terrible cite (Athanael)
11. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Ah! Ah! Ah!...Athanael, c'est toi!
12. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Ah! Ah! Ah!...Je vais donc te revoir (Crobyle, Myrtal, Nicias, Athanael)
13. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Gorde-toi bien! Voici ta terrible ennemie! (Nicias, Choeur)
14. Thais: Act I - Scene II : C'est Thais, I'idole fragile (Thais, Nicias)
15. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Quel est cet etranger (Thais, Nicias, Athanael)
16. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Qui te fait si severe (Thais, Nicias, Choeur)
17. Thais: Act I - Scene II : Non! Non! je hais vos fausses ivresses (Athanael, Thais, Nicias, Choeur)
18. Thais: Act II - Scene I : Ah! je suis seule, seule enfin!
19. Thais: Act II - Scene I : Dis-moi que je suis belle (Thais)
20. Thais: Act II - Scene I : Etranger, te voila comme tu l'avais dit
21. Thais: Act II - Scene I : Eh bien, fais-moi connaitre tout cet amour
22. Thais: Act II - Scene I : Je suis Athanael, moine d'Antinoe! (Thais, Athanael, Nicias)
23. Thais: Act II - Scene I : Je n'ai pas plus choisi mon sort que ma nature (Thais, Athanael, Nicias)
24. Thais: Act II - Scene I : Meditation Religieuse - Symphonie (Orchestre)

Tracks:

1. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Pere, Dieu m'a parle par ta voix,
2. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Non loin d'ici, vers I'occident
3. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Considere, o mon pere (Thais, Athanael)
4. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Suivez-moi tous, amis! (Nicias, Choeur, Crobyle, Myrtal)
5. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Divertissement (i) (Orchestre)
6. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Voila I' Incomparable! (Nicias)
7. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Celle qu vient est plus belle (Crobyle, Myrtal)
8. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Divertissement (ii) (Orchestre)
9. Thais: Act II - Scene II : Eh! c'est lui!...Athanael! (Nicias, Choeur, Athanael)
10. Thais: Act II - Scene II : II dit vrai! (Thais, Nicias, Athanael, Choeur)
11. Thais: Act III - Scene I : L'ardent soleil m'ecrase
12. Thais: Act III - Scene I : Ah! des gouttes de sang coulent de ses pieds (Thais, Athanael)
13. Thais: Act III - Scene I : O messager de Dieu, si bon dans ta rudesse (Thais)
14. Thais: Act III - Scene I : Baigne d'eau mes mains et mes levres (Thais, Athanael, Choeur)
15. Thais: Act III - Scene I : La paix du Seigneur soit avec toi (Athanael, Albine)
16. Thais: Act III - Scene I: Mon oeuvre est accomplie! (Athanael, Thais, Albine, Choeur)
17. Thais: Act III - Scene II : Que le ciel est pesant! (Cenobites, Palemon, Athanael)
18. Thais: Act III - Scene II : C'est lui qui vient! (Athanael, Palemon)
19. Thais: Act III - Scene II : Qui te fait si severe (Thais, Athanael, Choeur)
20. Thais: Act III - Scene II : Thais va mourir! (Athanael)
21. Thais: Act III - Scene III : Seigneur, ayez pitie de moi (Choeur, Albine)
22. Thais: Act III - Scene III : Sois le bienvenu dans nos tabernacles (Albine, Athanael, Choeur)
23. Thais: Act III - Scene III : C'est toi, mon pere! (Thais, Athanael)

Amazon.com

This set is primarily for devoted fans of Beverly Sills, for fans of Sherrill Milnes in his prime, and for those who must have the uncut version where it's available. The estimable Ms. Sills was in less than ideal voice for the making of this recording, which is unfortunate, but the artistry still shines through. Mr. Milnes sings with rich tone. But Lorin Maazel's conducting is leaden and out of empathy with the score. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Lapsing Faith and Lost Beauty.......2006-09-23

The reason I assign the recording four stars rather than five is that the pathos of the opera strikes me as too extreme. The same combination of exquisite beauty and suffocating pathos turns up in Barbra Streisand's song "The Way we Were." Beverly Sills sings the pathetic part of Thais to the hilt; and Massenet's familiar "religious meditation" does the rest. All of these intensely pathetic operas including Pagliacci and Tosca derive from the epoch-making example of Wagner's Tristan und Isolde with its unrelieved love-and-death sorrow. As a Christian I associate this powerful tradition with lapsing faith in Europe after 1865. Massenet's opera treats the early Christian monks of Egypt as caught up in tragic error. Thais is a supremely beautiful woman won from a life of immorality to Christianity by a well-intentioned monk who knew her in his earlier days. As the converted Thais lives and dies for the abstract reward of heaven, the monk grieves over the beauty he has destroyed. The real spiritual solution to the dilemma posed by the opera lies in the correlation between future resurrection, universal vitality and intense beauty; but theologians have generally missed he point and shown more interest in heaven than in concrete resurrection. In any case there was no way out for Massenet and his source.

Stylish Thais Set.......2005-10-16

This 1976 recording of Thais is my favorite of the two recordings I have - the other being the Fleming/Hampson. Sills' vibrato is a little more pronounced here than it was a few years earlier, but it doesn't bother me. She still has a gorgeous voice and brings this conflicted character vividly to life. Having studied with the likes of Mary Garden as a young singer, Sills has an innate understanding of the French style, and uses her voice with much imagination and flair. Also, the character of Thais is not supposed to be a young girl - an aging courtesan of 30ish or so... Sherrill Milnes, in a departure from his usual Italian repertoire, sings a most impassiaoned Athaneal - the voice full and resonant, the character's obessiveness wonderfully realized. I think he never did anything better on disc. Nicolai Gedda is a little past his best here, but like Sills understands the French style and delivers the vocal goods as required. Maazel conducts an exciting performance (even playing the solo violin in the Meditation himself) and the sound is excellent. The Fleming/Hampson set is beautifully sung, but I feel the drama of the story is not fully realized somehow - hard to put my finger on what's missing there. This Thais is one of my favorite French opera recordings - recommended highly.

AN UNDER-APPRECIATED GEM.......2004-12-03

Late 19th-century French opera is often disparaged these days, which isn't really fair. Delibes had some beautiful melodies, and Massenet was a much better composer than many give him credit for. And although "Manon" and "Werther" may be more famous, to me, his late opera "Thais" is his masterpiece. There are three major recordings of this opera, one with Anna Moffo, Gabriel Bacquier and Jose Carreras, a recent one with Renee Fleming, Thomas Hampson and Giuseppe Sabattini, and this 1976 recording with Beverly Sills, Sherill Milnes, and Nicolai Gedda. All three versions have their strengths and weaknesses. The Moffo/Bacquier vesion, although excellent and showing Carreras in his prime, is unavailable. (I'm not sure it was ever issued in CD.) The Fleming/Hampson recording is also excellent--Fleming has a gorgeous and luscious voice, and Hampson a silky smooth baritone--but I find myself reaching for the Sills/Milnes version most often.
Sills was past her prime when she recorded this, and her high notes are a little thin and sometimes wobbly. Nevertheless, her artistry is so great that she infuses the role of the courtesan with the tremendous drama the role requires. Thais' radical change of character, from the insouciant hedonist to the redeemed penitent, is gloriously demonstrated in Sills' portrayal.
And this opera is as much about Athanael as it is Thais. Milnes, at the height of his career when he recorded this in 1976, brings tremendous power and vitality to the role of the priest, whose reverse progression from moralistic religious surety to tortured doubt parallels that of Thais, the object of his forbidden love. Nicolai Gedda's singing is, as always, stylish and graceful, and Loren Maazel's reading of the score is well paced and forceful. This recording belongs in all opera collections.

A fad.......2004-05-21

This Thais is ruined by Sills. Buy Renee Fleming's Thais instead. She has the big voice, the looks and the talent. Sills didn't, all she can do is make my ears bleed. Shame on that shrieker!

Lovely but too late.......2004-02-24

I have a live-recording with Sills which is MUCH better. Sills was always at her best live on stage. For studio-recordings get the Fleming-set or the sadly cut recording with the divine Renee Doria. (My favourite Thais)

Average customer rating: Natalie Dessay in the French Repertoire: Nicely Done! Another French Album?! Le vrai Amour & la Grande Musique Salut à la France! Wonderful, but a minor quality control problem

Natalie Dessay - French Opera Arias Natalie Dessay , Michel Plasson , Jules Massenet , and Jacques Offenbach Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Thomas | Thomas, Ambroise | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Mozart Heroines; Natalie Dessay Natalie Dessay - Vocalise The Miracle of the Voice Natalie Dessay ~ Delirio (Handel Italian Cantatas) Natalie Dessay - French Opera Arias ASIN: B0000ZOJZW Release Date: 2004-01-13

Tracks:

1. Acte III - Air Du Cours La Reine: Suis-Je Gentille Ainsi?
2. Gavotte: Obessions Quand Leur Voix Appelle
3. Fabliau: Rire Toujours? Vous Vous Trompez
4. Acte II - Polonaise: Oui, Pour Ce Soir...Je Suis Titania La Blonde Philine
5. Acte III - Aubade: vive Amour Qui Reve L'Ensoleillad
6. Acte I - Bolero: Profitez de La Vie Mme De Ligneul
7. Acte II - Grande Valse: Conduisez-Moi Vers Celui Que J'Adore Edwige
8. Acte I: En Proie A La Tristesse La Comtesse
9. Acte II: C'En Est Donc Fait...Salut A La France! Marie
10. Acte I - Valse De Juliette: Ah ! Je Veux Vivre Juliette
11. Acte IV - Air De La Foile: A Vos Jeux Mes Amis Ophelie
12. Mort D'Ophelie: Le Voila, Je Crois L'Entendre Ophelie

Amazon.com

Yet again, the fascinating French soprano Natalie Dessay has come up with a winning recital. Canary fanciers can love her without guilt: her high notes are all in place (up to a solid E natural), her skill with fast coloratura is astonishing, her pitch is ideal, and her breath control is massive. But she's as interested in creating character as she is in pure singing. For once Ophelia's long Mad Scene from Thomas' Hamlet is a truly dramatic, heartbreaking event, for instance; similarly, Manon sounds young and sassy, as she should. Rarities by Boieldieu and Offenbach are a joy to hear; "Je suis Titania" and Juliette's Waltz Song are suitably virtuosic and show-offy--she's as good as any of the so-called "Golden Age" sopranos in this repertoire. Her tone remains full and pretty; only the very top notes have a bit of an edge, but this hardly detracts. In short, this is a remarkable recital--interesting pieces, gloriously sung. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Natalie Dessay in the French Repertoire: Nicely Done!.......2007-03-08

Here, Natalie Dessay sings French arias. All in all, a satisfying album, with a few exceptions as noted below. A few samples of the cuts on this CD.

From Massenet's "Manon," she sings nicely. "Suis-je gentile ainsi" shows off her clear, light, agile voice. She demonstrates a decent trill and nice high note. "Obeissons quand leur voix appelle" is sung at a slower pace. Well sung, with some subtle vocal effects. This closes with a nice run, but a rather harshly sung high note. Then, "Rive toujours." This begins at a slower pace, but picks up. There is some nice ornamentation. For the most part, this is sweetly sung.

Thomas' "Mignon" features a wonderful piece, "Je suis Titania la blonde." Dessay, again, displays an agile and attractive voice. She demonstrates capable coloratura technique, featuring some nicely done appoggiaturas. In the last segment, she manifests a nice trill. Her penultimate high note is a bit harsh. However, she concludes with a very well done set of trills and a good high note.

From Gounod's "Romeo et Juliette," we have "Ah! Je veux vivre." The first part is smoothly sung. Nice characterization by Dessay. There is some attractive and pleasant florid singing at the end. Finally, from Thomas' "Hamlet," she essays "A vos jeux mes amis." Nice effects and good vocal technique are displayed. Her voice is attractive in this cut. Nice ornamentation toward the end. Some good trills and some nicely hit high notes.

This is a fine CD. Natalie Dessay shows her vocal virtues to good effect. She is obviously quite at home on the French repertoire, and this CD demonstrates that statement very clearly.

Another French Album?!.......2005-12-26

Does Natalie Dessay even know how to sing Italian? Whatever. I find her boring and flat. Her middle range drives me batty 'cas it's non exsistent and too sharp for my taste. I have no clue how anyone can compare her to Lily Pons becuase Pons notes were flawless and effortless. I always hold my breath to see if Dessay hits her notes well or if it just comes out piercing and sharp. She's about 50/50. She is no Lily Pons. She's decent but utterly forgettable and frankly I'm not sure why people are so enraptured by her. I find Sumi Jo much more appealing and talented

Le vrai Amour & la Grande Musique.......2004-05-14

Elle musique est si paisible et claire. Natalie Dessaix est épousé au baryton chanteur d'opéra Laurent Naouri. Ils ont deux beaux enfants. Natalie et Laurent ont participé dans les films télévisé nombreux. Dans Orphée aux enfers (1997) elle a joué Eurydice et il a joué Jupiter. Laurent Naouri est présenté dans Rameau 'Hippolyte et Aricie'. Dans cet opéra baroque français,
Naouri dans son aria 'Puisque Pluton' il est destiné à tuer son fils.

Salut à la France!.......2004-05-10

Natalie Dessay is a delight on this CD of arias from 19th century French Opera. The listener can experience a singer who is both concerned about the vocal and interpretative values of each selection of this recital. The first two tracks of the Cours de la Reine Scene from Massenet's 'Manon' show a fresh voice that portrays easily the youth and frivolity of the title character. All the stacattos, cadenzas and high notes are on the service of the character. It is delightful to find some rarities on this recital, like the Fabliau from 'Manon' (an alternative aria that Massenet composed for sustitution of the Gavotte) and the pieces from 'Chérubin', 'La fête du village voisin' and 'Robinson Crusoe'. On the selection by Offenbach, Dessay sings a stunning trill on a Dflat and then goes to expectacular scales, finishing the dazzling waltz with an elaborate cadenza and a firm high E. Another highlight of the CD is the elaborate aria from 'Le Comte Ory' by Rossini, where the soprano's attention to the nuances of the piece bring out a lively interpretation. The aria from 'La fille du régiment' makes us wish for a complete recording of the opera. However, the best part of the CD are the last two tracks. Dessay brings all her gifts to a climax with a marvelous performance of the Ophélie's Mad and Death Scenes from 'Hamlet' by Ambroise Thomas. This version of the Mad Scene is even better than her previous rendition on her last recital of French arias. This is a highly emotional interpretation where all the brilliant scales and cadenzas reflect the changing moods of Ophelie's madness and her despair as well as her innocence. This is the definitive performance of this music on records, period. The Orchestre National du Capitole de Toulouse and the Choeur 'Les Eléments', ably conducted by Michel Plasson, complement Dessay beautifully. In summary, another wonderful CD by one of the most remarkable coloratura sopranos of our time.

Wonderful, but a minor quality control problem.......2004-04-02

Five stars for Natalie Dessay, who has an incredible instrument, and a great selection of arias. But I've listened to 4 copies of this disc and each had a very short "click" at 2:22 on track 2 (the Gavotte from Manon). Must be a quality control problem. Maybe it was just a bad batch.

Anyway, Dessay's voice is a force of nature; she must be one of the greatest coloraturas ever. I prefer her live version of Handel's "Tornami" from Alcina to Sutherland's. And she's incredible on Orphee Aux Enfers - not only a wonderful singer, but obviously a great actress and comedienne.

So, if you've not heard her before, give this album a try - ignore the "click" and listen to a truly angelic voice.

So 5 stars for Natalie Dessay and the selections, and a slap on the wrist for the record label and its quality control.

Average customer rating: Bizet: Les Pêcheurs De Perles My review middle of the road performance Opera to love Wonderful piece of work

Bizet: Les Pêcheurs des perles; Ivan IV Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Box Sets | Stores | Music ASIN: B000002SFC Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Les Pechuers De Perles: Prld - Comic Opr Nat Theatre Orch/Pierre Dervaux
2. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.1. Choeur: Sur la greve en feu - Ernest Blanc/Nicolai Gedda/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
3. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.1. Scene et choeur: Amis, interrompez vos danses - Ernest Blanc/Nicolai Gedda/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
4. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.1. Recit et reprise du choeur danse: Demeure parmi nous, Nadir - Ernest Blanc/Nicolai Gedda/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
5. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.2. Recit: Cest toi qu'enfin je revois - Ernest Blanc/Nicolai Gedda
6. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.2. Duo: Au fond du temple saint - Ernest Blanc/Nicolai Gedda
7. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.3. Recit: Que vois-je? - Ernest Blanc/Nicolai Gedda
8. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.3. Choeur: Elle vient... Sois la bienvenue - Ernest Blanc/Janine Micheau/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
9. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.3. Scene et choeur: Seule au milieu de nous - Ernest Blanc/Janine Micheau/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
10. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.4. Recit: A cette voix - Nicolai Gedda
11. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.4. Romance: Je crois encore entendre - Nicolai Gedda
12. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.5. Scene et choeur:Le ciel est bleu - Nicolai Gedda/Jacques Mars/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
13. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act I, No.5. Air et choeur: O Dieu Brahma! - Janine Micheau/Nicolai Gedda/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
14. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act II, No.6. Entracte, scene et choeur: L'ombre descend des cieux - Janine Micheau/Nicolai Gedda/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
15. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act II, No.7. Recit et cavatine: Me voila seule dans la nuit - Janine Micheau
16. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act II, No.8. Chanson: De mon amie - Janine Micheau/Nicolai Gedda
17. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act II, No.9. Duo: Leila! Dieu puissant - Janine Micheau/Nicolai Gedda
18. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act II, No.10. Final: Ah! Revenez a la raison - Janine Micheau/Nicolai Gedda/Jacques Mars

Tracks:

1. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.10. Final: Arretez! C'est a moi d'ordonner - Ernest Blanc/Janine Micheau/Nicolai Gedda/Jacques Mars/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
2. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.11. Entracte, recit et air L'orages'est calme...o Nadir - Ernest Blanc
3. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.12. Recit: Qu'ai-je vu? - Ernest Blanc/Janine Micheau
4. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.12. Duo: Jefremis, je chancelle - Janine Micheau/Ernest Blanc
5. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.12. Scene:Entends au loin... - Jaques Mars/Janine Micheau/Ernest Blanc
6. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.13. Choeur danse:Des que le soleil - Comic Opr Nat Theatre Orch/Pierre Dervaux
7. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.14. Scene et choeur: Sombres divinites - Jaques Mars/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux/Ernest Blanc
8. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.15. Trio: O lumiere sainte - Janine Micheau/Nicolai Gedda/Ernest Blanc
9. Les Pechuers De Perles: Act III, No.16. Final: Cesont eux, les voici - Ernest Blanc/Nicolai Gedda/Janine Micheau/Jacques Mars/Comic Opr Nat Theatre Chor/Pierre Dervaux
10. Ivan IV: Act I, Duo: Puisses-tu voir longtemps encore - Janine Micheau/Michel Senechal
11. Ivan IV: Act I, Final du premier tableau: Victoire! Victorie! Chantez! - Pierre Savignol/Henre Legay/Nat Chor de la R.T.F./Georges Tzipine
12. Ivan IV: Act I, Serenade: Ouvre ton coeur a l'amour qui m'enflamme - Michel Senechal
13. Ivan IV: Act I, Recit et chand du Cosak: Et c'est un chant de femmes... - Michel Roux/Louis Noguera/Nat Chor de la R.T.F./Georges Tzipine
14. Ivan IV: Act II, Choeur danse: Sous nos pas resonnent... - Nat Orch de la R.T.F./Georges Tzipine
15. Ivan IV: Act III, Air de Mare: II me semble parfois que mavie est un songe - Janine Micheau
16. Ivan IV: Act III, Recit et air d'Igor: La vengeance va donc etre enfin satisfaite...Pourquoi me verr - Henri Legay
17. Ivan IV: Act III, Duo: Marie ! Igor! - Henri Legay/Janine Micheau
18. Ivan IV: Act III, Final: Voyez! Ah! Mon epouse... - Janine Micheau/Henri Legay/Michel Senechal/Michel Roux/Pierre Savignol/Louis Noguera...
19. Ivan IV: Act IV, Final: A mort! A mort! - Janine Micheau/Henri Legay/Michel Senechal/Michel Roux/Pierre Savignol/Louis Noguera...

Customer Reviews:

Bizet: Les Pêcheurs De Perles.......2004-02-03

Advice for the San Diego gentleman: listen to the recording first before sending in your comments. It's laughable to blindly defend Nicolai Gedda's singing in Nadir's role without even listening to the recording!

While I gave this recording five stars for its glorious sound and very good performance from all stars including Mr. Nicolai Gedda, he does indeed sound a bit strained in the romance "Je crois encore entendre". This is not surprising since Bizet wrote this passage in extremely high notes!

I highly recommend this recording to all Bizet fans.

My review.......2003-02-17

Nicolai Gedda is my favorite tenor in the non-Italian repertory. He excelled in French, German, and operetta roles, both French and Viennese. Even though I have not listened to this recording yet, I am sure that he does a good job in this recording of Bizet's second most popular opera after the ubiquitous "Carmen". He was a great Don José, the best non-French one who ever recorded the role (no offense to Corelli, Domingo, and Vickers). It is fair to assume that he does a good job with the demanding role of Nadir. To say that he sometimes sounds a bit strained in this role is blasphemous. He excelled in roles that had high tessituras. He had great success in "Le Postillon de Lonjumeau", "Oberon", and "Benvenuto Cellini". This recording was made in October 1960. Gedda was only at the beginning of his glorious prime. Do not believe the person who said he sounds strained in this role. He is biased against Gedda, who happens to be one of his fellow countrymen. Gedda also was very committed dramatically to each and every role that he sung. To say that he sings Nadir's aria without any emotions is false exaggeration in the greatest sense. Gedda was a superb interpreter of French roles and it can be assumed, on my part that is, that he gives an above-average performance in this opera. Remember, I have not listened to this recording yet.

middle of the road performance.......2001-11-06

This is a perfect example of studio recordings with opera stars that ought to be very good, but somehow fails. There is nothing obviously 'wrong' with this recording, but it surely doesn't engage either.

The voices are generally good - Gedda's Nadir is smooth and beautiful, idiomatic in style, if sometimes a little strained under pressure - and that's not strange - Nadir's writing is very high. The romance 'je crois entendre encore' is however a wonder of precision and smoothness, technically perfect indeed, but it's rather hard to imagine that he sings a romance when there's no trace of feelings there. Janine Micheau on the other side is as always rather dry in tone, but perfectly french in style, and her vibrato is not as wide as it sometimes could be - and her performance is, I think, the most 'felt' of the three main roles. Ernest Blanc as Zurga is also rather unengaged, although with a firm and effective voice. The conducting is also rather uninspired, and perhaps that's the main problem, cause an uninspired conductor can damage a whole performance.

There are at least three better recordings according to my taste, and one of them stand clearly ahead of the other: the live recording from 1959 with Vanzo/Micheau/Baquier and Rosenthal as conductor, available here on Amazon.com. A typically french performance with all the positive effects of a live recording captured in good sound and hardly none of the negative ones, combined with wonderful singers in their prime. Vanzo, as Nadir, is alone worth the purchase (it's also budget priced!). Thereafter I think the two mono recordings from Philips (Simoneau/Alarie/Bianco/Fournet) and EMI (Legay/Angelici/Dens/Cluytens) are good. There are studio recording with more modern sound, but they all let you down in one way or the other - you might as well go for this one in comparission to them.

Compared to other more modern stereo versions, this one has the great advantage of giving us highlights from the very rare Bizet opera 'Ivan IV' with an other conductor and different cast. For the real Bizet fans this alone might be worth the purchase, but if you just want a good version of this lovely opera, go for one of the three I've mentioned above.

Opera to love.......2000-04-19

Bizet wrote some of the most beautiful melodies in classical music, and this opera abounds with some of his best. Filled with breathtaking arias, the exotic setting of Ceylon and glorious poetry, The Pearl Fishers is more lush and visceral than Carmen. James Michener's The Drifters was my introduction to this opera; in the Winona Ryder version of Little Women, Gabriel Byrne as Professor Baehr takes Jo to a production of Les Pecheurs de Perles. This is a wonderful recording of a very accessible piece of music.

Wonderful piece of work.......1998-12-07

This wonderful piece of work by Bizet is not as popular as Carmen, and this is a pity, for the melodies and voice registers used by the composers are really talking to the soul. This version, although not recent, is the best I know by the quality of performers and sound recording. Definitely worth buying.

Average customer rating: Susan Graham is a True Recitalist

Susan Graham at Carnegie Hall Manufacturer: Warner Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Berg | Berg, Alban | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mahler | Mahler, Gustav | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Poulenc | Poulenc, Francis | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Susan Graham - La Belle Époque (The Songs of Reynaldo Hahn) Susan Graham - Mozart & Gluck Arias ~ Il tenero momento Artist Portrait: Susan Graham Susan Graham ~ Berlioz - Les nuits d'été Poèmes de l'Amour ASIN: B0000AOVT4 Release Date: 2003-10-07

Tracks:

1. Zigeunerlieder, Op.103
2. Zigeunerlieder, Op.103
3. Zigeunerlieder, Op.103
4. Zigeunerlieder, Op.103
5. Zigeunerlieder, Op.103
6. Zigeunerlieder, Op.103
7. Zigeunerlieder, Op.103
8. Zigeunerlieder, Op.103
9. Proses Lyriques
10. Proses Lyriques
11. Proses Lyriques
12. Proses Lyriques
13. Seven Early Songs
14. Seven Early Songs
15. Seven Early Songs
16. Seven Early Songs
17. Seven Early Songs
18. Seven Early Songs
19. Seven Early Songs
20. Quatre Poemes De Guillaume Appollinaire
21. Quatre Poemes De Guillaume Appollinaire
22. Quatre Poemes De Guillaume Appollinaire
23. Quatre Poemes De Guillaume Appollinaire
24. Vois-Tu, Je M'en Veux (Les P'tites Michu)
25. J'ai Deux Amants (L'amour Masque)
26. C'est Ca La Vie, C'est Ca L'amour (Toi C'est Moi)
27. A Chloris
28. Fantoches
29. Liebst Du Um Schonheit (Ruckertlieder)
30. Sexy Lady

Amazon.com

Susan Graham has firmly established herself as one of our leading mezzos in opera and recital. Her voice, infinitely varied, perfectly focused, and produced, has the mellow glow of burnished bronze, but at the top she narrows her vibrato to give it a brighter, more intense quality. This live recording of her Carnegie Hall concert last April combines total vocal control with the spontaneity and excitement of a performance--complete with audience reactions--and displays her stylistic versatility, her charm, expressiveness, and communicative projection to brilliant advantage. The program features two German song cycles and several groups from her signature French repertoire. Brahms' "Gypsy Songs," one of his numerous Hungarian-influenced compositions, use texts derived from Hungarian folksongs and deal essentially with love and yearning. Graham captures all their changing moods, from melancholy to exuberance, making the last one soar ecstatically, but sometimes loses their simplicity in mannerisms and over-inflection. Alban Berg's "Seven Early Songs" on texts by various poets, written long before he became an atonalist, are super-romantic, amorous, dramatic; only the two final ones harbor hints of his future style. They are sung with rapturous inwardness. Four songs by Debussy on his own descriptive, pensive verses are calm, dreamy, mellow, caressing; four by Poulenc on poems of Apollinaire are satirical parodies; one is a bravura patter-song. Two songs by André Messager and one by Moises Simons, taken from their operettas, are basically cabaret songs and grand fun; they give Graham a fine opportunity to show the lighter side of her artistry. The encores include a serious song by Reynaldo Hahn, a humorous one by Debussy, Mahler's "Liebst du um Schönheit," a love song he wrote for his wife, and the first performance of a song written for Susan Graham by Ben Moore: a hilarious spoof on the fate of a mezzo condemned to sing trouser roles--with quotes from them--when she longs to be a "Sexy Lady." --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

Susan Graham is a True Recitalist.......2004-12-16

Though not usually one for true live recordings that include audience applause and response, SUSAN GRAHAM AT CARNEGIE HALL works well on every level. Not only is she in top form (as is her collaborator Malcolm Martineau at he piano) vocally and interpretatively, she demonstrates here an obvious rapport with her audience that is magical.

The repertoire here could not be more varied - and successful in every portion of this recital. Graham's voice has that ability to move from her usual mezzo soprano range into the lyric/spinto range with the greatest of ease. The Brahms 'Zigeunerlieder' are full of zest and sparkle. The Debussy 'Proses lyriques' are sensually liquid and Graham's French diction is as perfect as it gets: the Poulenc cycle feels so very natural for all its underlying difficulties. The too rarely heard Berg 'Sieben fruhe Lieder' are elegant and involved and the Messanger and Simons highlight Graham's ease of strolling through unknown works, making them sound so familiar.

Encores are included and for once "thank goodness!" Susan Graham has a special affinity for Reynaldo Hahn and she has mad 'A Chloris' her very own. For the Mahlerites she offers 'Liebst du um Schonheit' (including a comment to the audience) and a Debussy song and a witty ditty written for her by Ben Moore - just for fun.

The audience fortunate enough to have been present during this live recording on April 14, 2003 have now a living memento. For the rest of us that magic is fully contained on this very special recording. Grady Harp, December 2004

Average customer rating: Good singing *if you like this repertoire* Rare Offenbach Muisc is a Real Gem Yet another frustrating CD booklet A Bright Voice, Delightful Music, and Hilarious Delivery

Anne Sofie von Otter Sings Offenbach Jacques Offenbach , Anne Sofie von Otter , Marc Minkowski , and Gilles Ragon Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Anne Sofie von Otter - Love's Twilight (Late Romantic Songs by Berg, Korngold, Strauss) Mots D'Amour: Songs By Cecile Chaminade HOMAGE: The Age of the Diva Anne Sofie von Otter - Speak Low ~ Songs by Kurt Weill / Gardiner Cecilia Bartoli - Gluck Italian Arias ~ Dreams & Fables ASIN: B00006AKUW Release Date: 2002-09-10

Tracks:

1. No 3a Choeur, Recit Et Rondeau
2. No 10 Duo Et Declaration
3. No 4 Chanson Militaire
4. No 2 Ballade
5. No 4 Duo
6. Symphonie De L'avenir - Marches Des Fiances
7. No 11 Sextuor De L'Alphabet
8. Acte III - Entr'acte Et Barcarolle
9. No 1 Bis Choeur De Jeunes Filles
10. No 2 Couplets
11. Ouverature A Grand Orchestre
12. No 3 Duo
13. No 11 Final Du Deuxieme Acte
14. No 15B Chanson
15. No 8B Griserie-Ariette

Customer Reviews:

Good singing *if you like this repertoire*.......2004-08-03

I have always enjoyed Frederica von Stade's Offenbach recital, and was looking forward to von Otter, as she'd proved such a charmer in Kurt Weill and other popular music theatre works. Her liedersinging experience gives her the edge over many in this repertoire. Simply put, I can not imagine many singers doing a better job than von Otter in this repertoire. Perhaps the aria from "La Belle Helene" has a touch more pathos sung by Jessye Norman.

My problem is with the repertoire. If you know the music of Offenbach, then you know what you are getting. If you are unfamiliar with the French version of the Viennese Operetta, then it would be wise to listen to this disc first. I simply do not care much for it. Therefore the three stars. Advertising has claimed this to be "a revelation of Offenbach in all his many guises" but to me it was more of the same old Offenbach.

However, if you enjoy this music, this is an excellent choice. Also do not miss Susan Graham's disc of lighter French music.

Rare Offenbach Muisc is a Real Gem.......2004-03-29

Jacques Offenbach was a composer who was popular in his day, but his music was not taken all that seriously by more serious composers. After his death, much of his music went into obscurity. Some of the overtures to his operettas survived, as did LA BELLE HELENE and his opera THE TALES OF HOFFMAN, but to this day he is under performed to say the least. While some of his music was adapted for the ballet Gaite Parisienne, if we look at his musical output, all that is remembered of this composer is all relatively small. This is perhaps why this recording by Anne Sophie Von Otter and Les Musiciens du Louvre is such a goldmine.

The disc contains scenes from some Offenbach operettas such as LA BELLE HELENE, LA GRANDE DUCHESSE DE GEROLSTEIN, and LE PERICOLE as well as some of his lesser known works. While most of the music showcases Ms. Von Otter's talent, she is also accompanied by other soloists and a chorus, all of whom perform exceptionally well. Listeners are not only exposed to lesser known works of this composer, but also to the composer's many talents. When we listen to this music, it is not too much of a stretch to see how he could create the masterpiece of TALES OF HOFFMAN (yes, the barcarolle is included).

Certainly people who enjoy this recording will hope that there are revivals of other Offenbach operettas on stage and maybe studio recordings so this great composer can finally have his due.

Yet another frustrating CD booklet.......2004-02-24

Why do companies like DG always give us booklets in which
the order of works in the commentary in no way match the
order of the tracks on the CD??? It drives you crazy
trying to follow the CD -- when a new aria or whatever starts,
you spend ages trying to find comments on it in the booklet.

Other than that, good recording and has interesting bits of
lesser known Offenbach.

A Bright Voice, Delightful Music, and Hilarious Delivery.......2003-06-17

I'm a relative newcomer and amateur in opera. Right now, I particulary enjoy buying CDs of sopranos, and I decided to "try" Ms. Von Otter. Was I blown away. My favorite on this CD is the "Sextuor de l'Alphabet" (the Alphabet Sextet). I had to laugh the first time I heard this. I have a cursory grasp of French, and so caught a word hear or there. It was funny without the context. But after reading the English translation of the lyrics, my funny bone was tickled even more. This whole CD makes clear the reason that Offenbach was such a popular composer, a composer for the masses.

Anne Sofie von Otter has also found her way into my classical heart, and I intend to get to know her voice better. Her dramatic interpretation is wonderful, and could even be compared to Maria Callas' flair for drama.

I highly recommend this CD.

Average customer rating:

Berlioz Edition (Box Set) Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Berlioz | Berlioz, Hector | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Allen, Thomas | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Bainbridge, Elisabeth | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Berlioz, Hector | A to B | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Te Deum | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Franz Schubert: The Complete Songs The Berlioz Experience Mendelssohn: The Masterworks [Box Set] Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set) Rimsky-Korsakov: Suites ASIN: B000093OSH Release Date: 2003-12-16

Amazon.com

Sir Colin Davis has long been considered the world's finest Berlioz conductor, and over the years, Philips has released all of the composer's major works with Davis at the helm. Now, they're all here, in a 24-CD box, and it is an astonishing achievement. This treasure trove consists of the definitive, available readings of Les Troyens, Béatrice et Bénédict, and Benvenuto Cellini; a wonderfully energetic, passionate Roméo et Juliette; a Te Deum which is huge yet clear and not over-the-top for its own sake; Les Nuits d'été with different singers (of varying ranges in different songs), as Berlioz wanted them performed; the young Dame Janet Baker superb in Herminie and La Mort de Cléopatre; a relaxed, sweet Enfance du Christ; a Requiem which could knock you over; a Damnation de Faust which is both lyrical and exciting; a performance of Lélio which almost makes sense of that strange work; a Symphonie Fantastiquewith atmosphere and thrills; along with 7 overtures, 5 songs, and more. In addition to the moderate price, the packaging is such that the 24 CDs takes up less space than just the earlier releases of Cellini and Troyens together. This is one-stop shopping at its best. --Robert Levine

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