La Vie Est Belle [CD-single] [Import]

1. Vie Est Belle

2. Vie Est Belle ( Version Symphonique)

La Vie Est Belle,Mc Solaar,Wea/East West,World Music

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 Serate Musicali The Art of the Prima Donna 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: Elly Ameling now more available Delight in every note While they last... Treasures From a Treasure More than fully earned praise for an exceptional singer.

Artistry of Elly Ameling (Coll) Elly Ameling Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Ellington | Ellington, Edward Duke | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Elly Ameling ~ Schubert · Schumann - Songs Philips and Decca Recordings, 1961-1979 (Limited Edition) Fauré - Mélodies / Souzay · Ameling · Baldwin The Very Best of Lucia Popp Ave Maria--Lieder ASIN: B00007KMSJ Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

1. Matthaus-Passion
2. Johannes-Passion
3. Weihnachts-Oratorium
4. Juditha Triumphans
5. Messiah
6. Crudel Tiranno Amor
7. Die Schopfung
8. Orlando Paladino
9. 7 Lieder
10. Le Nozze Di Figaro
11. Exsultate, Jubilate Ch'io Mi Scordi Di Te, K505
12. Misera! Dove Son! K369
13. 18 Lieder
14. Frauenliebe Und- Leben
15. 11 Lieder
16. 20 Morike-Lieder

Customer Reviews:

Elly Ameling now more available .......2007-03-07

I had a 33 rpm album of Elly Ameling singing Schubert lieder accompanied by piano and clarinet at times. It was one of my all time favorite albums so I have been disappointed that I have not been able to find it anywhere on CD.

Now I can just buy this excellent collection. So much music in one place! Since I confess that I am far from an expert on the rest of her records, I look forward to hearing her sing many other styles and composers.

I think it is silly to criticize her for not singing Wagner, for example, since her version of many songs, especially lieder, are nothing short of sublime. I would like to hear how many Wagnerians sing Schubert or Mozart.

I doubt if they could approach the skill and soul with which Elly Ameling sings lieder.

Delight in every note.......2006-03-10

To speak as briefly as possible about this superb collection from an equally superb singer, what can I say but that Ms Ameling possessed a voice that shone with radiant warmth and star-like shimmer? And unlike many another light lyric soprano, Elly Ameling was possessed of a very high standard of musicianship, considerable intelligence, and a sort of immediate charm that captivates the listener.

So many of her recordings have still to be released on CD, but this 5CD-set goes some way towards remedying the situation. The repertoire spans a wide variety - French mèlodies, Lieder, light-hearted "sentimental" songs, Bach, etc. - and in each piece, Ms Ameling shows that quality of pearl-like beauty. It is a beauty which is also extremely pretty - a beauty of voice that is never overbearing and over-ripe, but perfectly blossoming upon the tree of inspiration.

I recommend this set unequivocally. It truly is sheer delight.

While they last..........2005-05-17

Elly Ameling held the quiet stage for recitals of great artistry and dignity for several decades and sadly most of the enormously successful CDs of her long career output are now unavailable. For those who have little access to the documentation of this very special artist, this box set is a must. It is a compilation of many of her recordings with differing accompanists, conductors, orchestras and composers. And while not all of the choices for inclusion here would be considered her greatest moments, there are enough works that sustain the warm memories of the little Dutch hausfrau who quietly and simply paid homage to composers with her clear and intelligent musicianship and radiant voice.

Ameling was known to schedule recitals of Schubert cycles and songs and in the afterglow of her performance answer the demand for curtain calls with additional Schubert melodies: she gifted her audience with the dignity of honoring a composer's works by maintaining the focus on that composer rather than milk the audience with the usual encore applause-getting favorites. And special moments such as quietly and pensively strolling through the orchestra during the Mahler 4th symphony to arrive at front stage, unapplauded, just in time for the opening line of her singing - those simple homage to composers and collaborators made her selfless manner endearing to audiences.

Despite the fact that Ameling's voice was on the small side she was always able to muster the projection to carry her message solidly in context with an orchestra. Yes, other more famous singers have recorded Ravel's quintessentially French SHEHERAZADE, but few have the perfection of diction and aura of mystery that Ameling maintained. Whether singing with piano or orchestra, or interpreting Bach, Mozart, Handel, and Vivaldi with the same degree of involvement as Brahms and Schumann and Schubert, Elly Ameling spanned a career that engendered passionate commitment from her fans. And this boxed set is a pocket full of memories to be treasured. Buy it before this too becomes unavailable. Grady Harp, May 05

Treasures From a Treasure.......2004-09-25

Treasures from a Treasure.

Ameling, one of the world's most beloved recitalists is captured here in a 5 CD collection offering some of her most beautiful recordings of song. While we are used to her perfection in songs of Bach, Mozart, Schubert, Schumann, Faure and Hahn, an added joy is her "pop" side, tackling - without a whiff of pretension, Porter, Kern, Gershwin, Ellington, et al.

What an absolute joy it is listening to this amazing artist sing these songs with an almost uncanny natural ease. There is no resorting to a "pop" voice and yet most of these pop standards songs sound as though they could have been written for her. Clean attacks, sometimes a bit of the pop technique of hanging on to a consonant longer than a classical artist normally would shows an appreciation and understanding of the style. Still, there is never once a compromise of her vocal beauty.

I like the way the songs have been arranged for her voice in that she sort of sings them clean, unaffected in the first half and then lets loose and kinda "swings" with it adding embellishments but never really changing her voice (Price, von Stade and other favorite singers of mine seem to have always added a breathy quality to much of their crossover material.)

Ameling doesn't resort to trying to "let her hair down" or get down and dirty, but rather the honest with which she approaches every one of these songs shows how much she enjoys singing them and her style is as refreshing as stumbling onto a cool spring on a sweltering summer's afternoon. A wonderful surprise.

More than fully earned praise for an exceptional singer........2003-07-15

As I had the privilige of hearing this outstanding Lied-singer during her long career in Holland and being the proud possessor of almost all her recordings, I cannot but fully agree with the professional and joyful review of Mr. Robert Holliston from Victoria, B.C. Canada.
Yes, it is unbelievable that of about the 150 recordings Mrs. Ameling made during her long career (for the greater part of course on the 'oldfashioned' LP's, as well as the innumerable Dutch live-recorded radio-concerts), so few CD's have been released.
Speaking of tradition: it was the page-turner of the Wigmore Hall in London who told Mrs. Ameling after her first recital in this hall, that she reminded him of Elisabeth Schumann. (And he certainly didn't mean her looks only!)
For those who are eager to hear her singing Ravel's Shéhérazade (just one example of stirring imagination combined with her Art of Singing) I can tell you that Philips released a 2-box CD of this work in 1999, combined with Debussy's La Damoiselle élue and a compilation of French mélodies, i.e. Debussy, Fauré, Duparc, Satie. One of the gems is Caplet's Le Corbeau et le Renard which even make children, who know the fables of La Fontaine, revel in the singing of the quarrelsome birds....
Her brilliant accompanyist is Rudolf Jansen. Let us cherish great artists in their art!

Average customer rating: Romantic andre rieu Andre Rieu Music is beautiful

André Rieu - La vie est belle (Life is Beautiful) Manufacturer: Sin-Drome Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Lehár, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | 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 General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Rieu, Andre | ( R ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Instrumental & Easy Listening | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pop Instrumental & Easy Listening | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Romantic Moments At The Movies Tuscany Fiesta Dreaming ASIN: B00005NNOW Release Date: 2001-09-04

Tracks:

1. La Vie Est Belle
2. You Are My Hearts Desire
3. Juliska From Budapest
4. Danube Love
5. Ole Guapa
6. Kalinka
7. Ramona
8. Heia In The Mountains
9. Stenka Rasin
10. I Want To Dream Of You, My Darling
11. Lara's Theme
12. Snowwhite
13. Amazing Grace
14. Poliushko Polka
15. Glenn Miller Melody
16. The Andre Sisters
17. Bolero

Amazon.com

The Viennese waltz is never far from violinist Andre Rieu's heart, but you won't find a single work from Johann Strauss on Life Is Beautiful. This time around, Rieu is globetrotting for his hummable, danceable melodies--to solid results. "Ole Guapa" is a tango featuring accordion; "Kalinka" is a familiar Russian tune; and "Amazing Grace," "Snow White," and Rieu's "Glenn Miller Melody" are tried-and-true American. Throughout, Rieu and his orchestra perform these works with plenty of style and polish; it's easy to see why he's such a hit with public-television audiences. His shortened version of Bolero may not be the sexiest available, but it is fun. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Romantic.......2003-09-10

Andre Rieu captures the romantic's heart once again in this, what is for the most part, a passionate album.

I feel the best tracks on this album are the russian-themed ones, like the title track (which I listen to on REPEAT when I am looking through my russian countryside or Romanov family album books). I feel that this and "Lara's Theme" (Maurice Jarre's love theme from the film DR. ZHIVAGO (a wonderful book and DVD)! conveys the passion for homeland which I strongly feel beats strongest in the hearts of all russians, more than than any other people). These compositions are so beautiful that it brings tears to the eyes if one surrenders oneself to them.

andre rieu.......2002-09-04

all i can say about andre,s music is i have over 15 cd,s and love ever one and rate them 5 stars.

Andre Rieu.......2001-09-28

I am a big fan of Andre Rieu but didnot enjoy this as much as several of his earlier recordings. It didn't have quite the zip as "Andre Rieu Live" or "The Holland I Love".

Music is beautiful.......2001-09-11

As soon as I saw Ravel's Bolero performed by Andre Rieu on PBS I wanted to have a copy of this beautiful album.. classical music that makes you get up and dance..

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: 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

Average customer rating: A tempting treasury, but only a few performances are great Berlioz with immaginative variety

The Berlioz Experience Manufacturer: Umvd Labels 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 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 Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Cleveland Orchestra | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Paris Symphony Orchestra | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | 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 General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique, Lelio, Tristia Berlioz Edition (Box Set) Shostakovich: Concertos; Orchestral Suites; Chamber Symphonies Grieg: Complete Music with Orchestra Bruckner: The Nine Symphonies; Helgoland ASIN: B00008RWRJ Release Date: 2003-10-14

Customer Reviews:

A tempting treasury, but only a few performances are great.......2007-02-03

Ten discs of Berlioz is a sumptuous offering, and temptingly cheap at Amazon Marketplace. DG has used this occasion to repackage some outstanding performances. At the top of the list goes James Levine's electrifying Requiem from Berlin, with playing and singing to match the conductor's inspiration. Also exciting--perhaps surprisingly so--is Abbado's Te Deum, which has rawer edges and sharper focus than Colin Davis's on Philips, long the standard version.

Dropping down a notch in quality, we have an elegantly played Romeo et Juliette by the Boston Symphony, superbly recorded, that has few rivals for refined virtuosity. But after a while Seiji Ozawa's approach seems to lack depth and meaning; he's skating over the surface of the musical drama, however brilliantly. Sharp and brilliant also describes Myung-Whun Chung's contribution, a Symponie fantastique, two overtures, and the Royal Hunt and Storm from Les Troyens, all with his well-trained Bastille Opera orchestra. Chung is to the manner born in Berlioz, but so are greater conductors in these works, including Munch and Markevitch.

At about the same quality level I'd place the Mort de Cleopatre, a dullish early vocal scene sung with plushness by Jessye Norman, and Kiri Te Kanawa's Les Nuits d'Ete, which is ravishing in terms of sheer vocalism but otherwise vacant. Daniel Barenboim's slack conducting does the piece no favors, either, which holds true on a much larger scale for his Damnation of Faust. This is a typical Barenboim product, full of lush sounds, excellent singing, big-scale orchestral work, but leading to a meager artistic payoff. Barenboim's Faust isn't remotely competitive with Markevitch, Chung, Solti, Pretre, and others in this work. It's great to hear Domingo in the title role, but the conducting is so routine that I'm not sure the overall experience is worth it.

We get odds and ends of varying quality: the rarely recorded Tristia done superbly by Boulez, an uneven batch of songs that previously appeared in their own double-CD set (a chore to listen to in its entirety, despite the occasional gem), and a pedestrain Harold in Italy conducted by Lorin Maazel in Berlin, a performance that DG surely could have bettered by looking deeper into their vaults.

In all, I can't see investing in such an uneven collection except at super-budget price. If you do a little searching, all the best things here can be gotten separately, and the lesser recordings pale by comparison with classic Berlioz from Colin Davis, Charles Munch, and Igor Markevitch.

Berlioz with immaginative variety.......2003-10-30

This box makes a nice alternative to the Philips boxes under Colin Davis. Not to take anything away from Davis. His Berlioz cycle certainly ranks up there with the elite for recording achievements. But many will not want to invest in all 3 boxes, so Universal has brought us a great compilation of some of Berlioz' best works from a variety of performers with different styles.
The jewel has to be Ozawa's unsurpassed Romeo and Juliet. This 1976 studio recording had its birth at the Tanglewood Festival and features excellent soloists (Julia Hamari, Jose Van Dam, and Jean Dupouy), a very competent choir, and of course the reliable Boston SO. The recording is of outstanding quality. It seems cleaned up a little from what I remember of the CDs from the mid 80s; much more spacious, less muddy sounding. I especially like the chorus in the hushed night scene.
Barenboim's Damnaton is perdictably Furtwangler-like in tempo, and again features top notch singers in Fischer Dieskau, Jules Bastin, & Placido Domingo; Yvonne Minto is probably not in the same class with the others, but she's more than acceptable.
Levine directs a well recorded and balanced classical-sounding Requiem, and Abbado is more than competent in the Te Deum.
Chung's Fantastique is fun and enjoyable, if not first-class.
The rest of the works are very commendable, if not top-of-the-class.
In short, you can't go wrong for the price, and if you love Berlioz' Romeo, you've got to get this box just for the Ozawa gem.

Average customer rating:

Serenata Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Chabrier | Chabrier, Alexis Emanuel | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( 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 Satie | Satie, Erik | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolf | Wolf, Hugo | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | 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 | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music ASIN: B00000E2S4

Average customer rating:

Ensemble Clement Janequin / Dominique Visse - Portrait Anthoine de Bertrand , Nicolas Gombert , Claudin de Sermisy , Anonymous , Paschal de L'Estocart , Adriano Banchieri , Juan Vasquez , Mateo (i) Flecha , Clement Janequin , and Dominique Visse Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Gombert, Nicolas | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Lassus | Lassus, Orlando di(Lasso) | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Le Jeune, Claude | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Chansons | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Partsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music ASIN: B000027OW7 Release Date: 1998-02-10

Tracks:

1. Chansons & Moresche: Quand Mon Mary Vient De Dehors
2. Chansons & Moresche: Si Du Malheur
3. Chansons & Moresche: Lucescit Jam O Socii
4. Chansons & Moresche: Ni Nuit Ne Jour
5. Chansons & Moresche: De Peu De Bien
6. Chansons: Tu Ne L'Enten Pas
7. Chansons: Que Je Porte D'Envie
8. Chansons: Ces Deux Yeux Bruns Doux Flambeaux De Ma Vie
9. Chansons: Ha Seigneur Dieu, Que De Graces Ecloses
10. Chansons: N'As Tu Poinct Mis Ton Hault Bonnet
11. Chansons: Mille Regres
12. Chansons: Je Ne Menge Point De Porc
13. Chansons: La Brosse, Basse Danse Pour Violes
14. Octonaires De La Vanite Du Monde: L'Eau Va Viste En S'Escoulant
15. Octonaires De La Vanite Du Monde: Quand Le Iour, Fils Du Soleil
16. Octonaires De La Vanite Du Monde: La Glace Est Luisante Et Belle
17. La Barca De Venetia Per Padova: Strepito Di Pescatori
18. La Barca De Venetia Per Padova: Parone Di Barca E Ninetta
19. La Barca De Venetia Per Padova: Madrigale Affettuoso
20. La Barca De Venetia Per Padova: Prima Ottava All'Improvviso Nel Liuto
21. La Barca De Venetia Per Padova: Soldato Svaligiato
22. Canciones Y Ensaladas (Chansons Du Siecle D'Or Espagnol): Lagrimas De Mi Consuelo
23. Canciones Y Ensaladas (Chansons Du Siecle D'Or Espagnol): La Bomba
24. Messe 'La Bataille': Messe 'La Bataille'/Kyrie
25. Messe 'La Bataille': Messe 'La Bataille'/Gloria
26. Missa 'Ad Placitum': Agnus Dei II & III

Average customer rating: Melodies to miraculously cure the moribund!!! FROM OFFENBACH TO LOPEZ

Le Meilleur de l'Opérette Manufacturer: EMI Records [All429] ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Lehár, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Strauss Jr., Johann | ( S ) | 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 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 General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music ASIN: B000053W6K Release Date: 2002-04-02

Customer Reviews:

Melodies to miraculously cure the moribund!!!.......2005-09-10

This 2000 3-CD set is a new edition of 2-CD set from 1990 titled "Opérette-Passion" from EMI France. By popular request, this adds to the already mirific collection a third CD containing some of the real glories of mid-XXth century French operettas: Maurice Chevalier, Tino Rossi, Fernandel, Alibert, Denise Duval, Luis Mariano, Georges Guétary, Bourvil, Mathé Altéry, Anny Cordy, Gise Mey and Armand Mestral. The selection is not exhaustive - that would be impossible* - but it does give any listener a major incentive to go ferretting for more of the same and the complete score of some of those genuine masterpieces of charm, humour and melody by Fancis Lopez or Maurice Yvain (among many others). For students of the French language and French opera, this collection is priceless as it gives a very good impression of what makes the French singing voice different from any other: something called "le phrasé", which unfortunately cannot be duplicated or improvised by international stars who simply dabble in French (except maybe the multi-talented Petula Clark). The recordings range from a restored antique of the 20's by Chevalier to full stereo scores from the 70's. The result is a package whose value will never be duplicated in discriminating choice, sound quality and sheer listening enjoyment. One very minor reservation : The dates of the recordings are not indicated as they were in the "Opérette-Passion" collection and the names of the lyricists are not given. The liner notes are composed of a 2-page essay which gives a general outlook of the evolution of French operetta (in French) but could have been a little longer, in my humble opinion. Details like this would have made the difference between a wonderful album for connoisseurs and a genuinely educational tool. * The operettas of Vincent Scotto are not represented. WARNING: These recordings are genuine treasures and are never available for long either individually of collectively, so buying this collection is an absolute no-brainer.

FROM OFFENBACH TO LOPEZ.......2002-08-16

Yesterday ,before going to sleep,you told your wife:I have nothing against FRENCH operettas,but what i want to hear is the songs ,not the dialogue that goes with the genre when you listen to complete works.Here in that collection,all the composers who created that particular form of light music are represented.It is so much more entertaining than traditional opera.Among the highlights are songs from OFFENBACH's works like LA BELLE HÉLENE and LA PÉRICHOLE;MESSENGER's VERONIQUE and MONSIEUR BEAUCAIRE;the famous LA VEUVE JOYEUSE that was successfull around the world;CHRISTINÉ's PHI PHI created the day after armistice in 1918.One of the pleasant surprize for me was hearing songs from LES MOUSQUETAIRES AU COUVENT and one from LA FILLE DE MADAME ANGOT (JADIS,LES ROIS)and another from CIBOULETTE(NOUS AVONS FAIT UN BEAU VOYAGE).MADY MESPLÉ,one of the best singers of the genre is featured on seven songs,and she is always a joy to hear in any role of the repertoire.FRANCIS LOPEZ, who is remembered as the last important composer is well honoured with eight selections with singers like BOURVIL,GEORGES GUÉTARY and LUIS MARIANO.Don't try to resist THE MERRY WIDOW ,she'll get to you one way or another.

World Music:

1. Legendes Fantastiques [Import]
2. Live Concert at the Royal Albert Hall - London [IMPORT] [Live] [Import]
3. Lotus Lounge, Vol. 2
4. Mareas
5. Marina Elali [Import]
6. Meisterstucke [Import]
7. Menu: The Best Of [Import]
8. Mi Nina Morena [Import]
9. Milano Calibro [Import] [Original recording remastered]
10. Millennium [Import]

World Music

world music

World Music

New Normal [Import]

Italinsk Koncert / Voix Interieures

Grieg, Chopin: Cello Sonatas

The Best of Paquito d'Rivera [Original recording remastered]

Karma Lounge [Import]

Hope~N~Light

Enlig Far [Import]

Hot Fuss [Limited Edition]

Great [Import]

From Yardbirds to Bluebreakers

Incesticide

Full House [Gold CD]

Illegal Bass [Clean]

The Reason

The Art of the Song