Airs d'opéras

Dive into the rich world of opera with "Airs d'opéras," a captivating collection of arias and scenes performed by the renowned baritone Ernest Blanc. Released in January 1961, this album is a testament to Blanc's powerful and versatile vocal abilities, showcasing his prowess in some of opera's most iconic roles.

Spanning a mere 40 minutes, "Airs d'opéras" is a concise yet powerful journey through the operatic repertoire. The album opens with Figaro's "Largo al factotum" from Rossini's "The Barber of Seville," a show-stopping aria that sets the tone for the virtuosity to come. Blanc's performance is followed by a selection of arias and scenes from operas by Verdi, Saint-Saëns, Wagner, Leoncavallo, Bellini, Massenet, and Mozart, each demonstrating Blanc's ability to inhabit a wide range of characters and styles.

Blanc's rich, resonant voice is particularly well-suited to the dramatic roles featured on this album. His performances of Iago's "Credo in un dio crudel" from Verdi's "Otello" and Athanaël's "Voilà donc la terrible cité" from Massenet's "Thaïs" are standouts, showcasing his ability to convey both power and nuance. The album also includes Blanc's performances of Wolfram's "Evening Star Romance" and "Contest Song" from Wagner's "Tannhäuser," demonstrating his ability to handle the unique demands of Wagner's music.

"Airs d'opéras" is a valuable addition to any opera enthusiast's collection, offering a chance to experience the artistry of Ernest Blanc in some of his most celebrated roles. The album's high-quality recordings and thoughtful programming make it an excellent introduction to the world of opera, as well as a rewarding listen for seasoned opera fans.