Bizet: Carmen

Experience the timeless allure of Georges Bizet's masterful opera "Carmen" in this captivating German-language compilation, released in 2019 by Bella Musica Edition. This exquisite recording features a selection of the opera's most iconic arias and ensembles, performed with unparalleled artistry and passion. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, immersing you in the rich tapestry of Bizet's score, from the stirring overtures to the dramatic duets and the enchanting "Habanera."

This operatic journey begins with the stirring "Vorspiel zum ersten Akt" and continues through the opera's four acts, showcasing the depth and range of Bizet's compositional genius. Standout tracks include the sultry "Ja, die Liebe hat bunte Flügel," the intense "Auf in den Kampf, Torero," and the poignant "Blumenarie." The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Hanna Kitzinger and Georgine von Milinkovič, whose powerful performances bring Carmen's fiery spirit and tragic tale to life.

The Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks, conducted by Eugen Jochum, provides a lush and dynamic orchestral backdrop, highlighting the intricate details and dramatic contrasts within Bizet's score. This recording is a testament to the enduring appeal of "Carmen," offering both seasoned opera enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre an unforgettable experience.

Georges Bizet, born in Paris in 1838, was a prodigious French composer whose name is forever linked with one of the most beloved operas of all time, "Carmen." His musical journey began at an early age, with his father, a singing teacher, and his mother, a talented pianist, nurturing his gifts. Bizet's precocious talent led him to the Paris Conservatoire at just nine years old, where he composed his Symphony in C Major at the age of 17. Despite facing early setbacks and struggles, Bizet's determination to succeed on the operatic stage led to works like "The Pearl Fishers" and "La Jolie Fille de Perth." However, it was his final opera, "Carmen," that would cement his legacy. Premiering just months before his untimely death in 1875, "Carmen" has since become a staple of the opera repertoire, known for its vivid characters, dramatic plot, and unforgettable music. Bizet's realistic approach to opera influenced the verismo style that followed, making him a pivotal figure in the Romantic era of classical music.