Immerse yourself in the rich, dramatic world of Hector Berlioz with this captivating album, released on January 1, 2003, under Warner Classics. This collection showcases the composer's early works, offering a unique glimpse into his evolving style and innovative spirit. The album opens with "La Mort d'Orphée," a powerful cantata that Berlioz composed in 1827, marking his first attempt at the prestigious Prix de Rome. This piece, never performed in Berlioz's lifetime, is a haunting exploration of myth and tragedy, featuring a female chorus and full orchestra.
The album also includes selections from Berlioz's "Tristia," a collection of pieces that reflect his deep emotional responses to Shakespeare's Hamlet. The "Marche funèbre pour la dernière scène d'Hamlet" is a standout track, offering a poignant and dramatic musical interpretation of the play's final moments.
For a change of pace, the album features selections from "Irlande," a set of pieces inspired by Berlioz's travels to Ireland. These tracks, including the lively "Chant guerrier" and the serene "Chant sacré," showcase the composer's ability to blend cultural influences into his unique musical language.
The album concludes with "Feuillets d'album," a collection of shorter pieces that demonstrate Berlioz's versatility and wit. The "Chant des chemins de fer," a humorous take on the newly invented steam locomotive, is a delightful curiosity that showcases the composer's playful side.
Throughout the album, Berlioz's mastery of orchestration and his ability to convey deep emotion through music shine through. This collection is a testament to the composer's enduring influence and his ability to push the boundaries of classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Berlioz or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling journey through the mind of one of classical music's most innovative and dramatic composers.
Berlioz: La Mort d'Orphée, H. 25: I. IntroductionHector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: La Mort d'Orphée, H. 25: II. "Prêtresses de Bacchus ... Ô seul bien qui me reste !" (Tenor)Hector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Rolando Villazón, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: La Mort d'Orphée, H. 25: III. "Quels cris affreux se font entendre ?" (Tenor)Hector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Rolando Villazón, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: La Mort d'Orphée, H. 25: IV. "Ô Dieu puissant, fils de Latone ... Ô Bacchus Evoé !" (Tenor, Chorus)Hector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Rolando Villazón, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: La Mort d'Orphée, H. 25: V. Tableau musicalHector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: Tristia, Op. 18, H 119: I. Méditation religieuse, H 56bHector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: Tristia, Op. 18, H 119: II. La mort d'Ophélie, H 92aHector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: Tristia, Op. 18, H 119: III. Marche funèbre pour la dernière scène d'Hamlet, H 103Hector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: Irlande, Op. 2, H 38: VI bis. Chant sacré, H 44bHector Berlioz, Rolando Villazón, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: Irlande, Op. 2, H 38: III. Chant guerrier, H 41Hector Berlioz, Rolando Villazón, David Bismuth, Michel Plasson
Berlioz: Irlande, Op. 2, H 38: V. Chanson à boire, H 43Hector Berlioz, Rolando Villazón, David Bismuth, Michel Plasson
Berlioz: Feuillets d'album, Op. 9, H 121: III. Chant des chemins de fer, H 110Hector Berlioz, Michel Plasson, Les Éléments, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Berlioz: Irlande, Op. 2, H 38: VI. Chant sacré, H 44aHector Berlioz, Rolando Villazón, David Bismuth, Michel Plasson
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