Hector Berlioz's "La damnation de Faust, extraits" is a captivating collection of highlights from his grand dramatic legend, Op. 24. Released in 1963 under the BNF Collection label, this classical orchestral album spans 47 minutes, offering a glimpse into Berlioz's unique and powerful retelling of the Faustian tale.
The album features a selection of arias and instrumental pieces, including the stirring "Hungarian March" and the enchanting "Dance of the Sylphids." Notable performances include "Merci, doux crépuscule" and "Romance. 'D'amour l'ardente flamme'," showcasing the depth and range of the original work. Berlioz's innovative use of orchestration and his ability to convey dramatic narratives through music are evident throughout these extracts.
Originally composed in the 19th century, "La damnation de Faust" was a seminal work that, despite initial setbacks, has endured as a testament to Berlioz's genius. This album provides a concise yet compelling introduction to the opera's rich tapestry of sound and story, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 1, Scene 1: Introduction. "Le vieil hiver a fait place au printemps" (Faust)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Nicolai Gedda
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 1, Scene 2: Peasant's Dance. Les bergers laissent leurs troupeaux" (Faust, Chorus)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Nicolai Gedda, Chœurs du Théâtre national de l'Opéra de Paris
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 1, Scene 3: "Mais d'un éclat guerrier les campagnes se parent" (Faust)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Nicolai Gedda
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 2, Scene 4: Hungarian MarchHector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 2, Scene 6: Méphistophélès' Song. "Une puce gentille" (Méphistophélès, Chorus)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Gérard Souzay, Chœurs du Théâtre national de l'Opéra de Paris
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 2, Scene 6: Dance of the SylphidsHector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 3, Scene 9: Aria. "Merci, doux crépuscule" (Faust)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Nicolai Gedda
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 3, Scene 11: Gothic Song. "Autrefois un roi de Thulé" (Marguerite)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Rita Gorr
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 3, Scene 12: Dance of SpritesHector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 3, Scene 12: "Maintenat, chantons à cette belle" - Serenade. "Devant la maison de celui qui t'adore" (Méphistophélès, Chorus)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Gérard Souzay, Chœurs du Théâtre national de l'Opéra de Paris
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 4, Scene 15: Romance. "D'amour l'ardente flamme" (Marguerite)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Rita Gorr
The Damnation of Faust, Op. 24, Pt. 4, Scene 16: Exorcism of Nature. "Nature immense" (Faust)Hector Berlioz, Orchestre du Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris, André Cluytens, Nicolai Gedda
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