Dive into the enchanting world of classical vocal artistry with Marie-Nicole Lemieux's captivating album, featuring a stunning collection of songs by Berlioz, Wagner, and Mahler. Released on February 1, 2001, this album showcases the extraordinary talent of Canadian contralto Marie-Nicole Lemieux, who brings her rich, resonant voice to a selection of beloved and lesser-known works.
The album opens with Hector Berlioz's "Les nuits d'été, Op. 7," a song cycle that explores themes of love, longing, and loss. Lemieux's powerful and nuanced performance brings depth and clarity to each of the six songs, from the playful "Villanelle" to the haunting "L'île inconnue."
Next, the album presents Richard Wagner's "Wesendonck-Lieder, WWV 91," a set of five songs based on poems by Mathilde Wesendonck. Lemieux's interpretation of these songs is marked by her ability to convey both the intensity and the subtlety of the music, making for a compelling listening experience.
The album concludes with Gustav Mahler's "Rückert-Lieder," a cycle of five songs based on poems by Friedrich Rückert. Lemieux's performance of these songs is particularly noteworthy for her ability to capture the delicate balance between the music's lyricism and its underlying melancholy.
Throughout the album, Lemieux's voice is beautifully accompanied by the Cypres label, ensuring that every note is clear and resonant. The album's duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes makes it an ideal choice for both casual listeners and serious music enthusiasts. Whether you're a fan of classical vocal music or simply looking to explore the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
Vinylscout