Bizet sans Paroles

Dive into the enchanting world of Georges Bizet's piano works with "Bizet sans Paroles," a captivating album that showcases the composer's virtuosity beyond his renowned operas. Released on September 11, 2020, this collection features a blend of Bizet's original piano compositions and arrangements, performed and arranged by the talented Nathanaël Gouin. The album spans a variety of genres within the classical realm, offering a rich tapestry of musical experiences.

The album opens with a series of charming pieces from "Chants du Rhin, WD 52," including "L'aurore," "Le départ," and "Les rêves," each offering a unique glimpse into Bizet's lyrical and expressive style. These pieces are followed by the romantic "La romance de Nadir" from "Les Pêcheurs de perles, WD 13," a work that highlights Bizet's ability to craft melodies that resonate deeply with the heart.

Nathanaël Gouin's arrangements and performances bring a fresh perspective to Bizet's compositions, making this album a delightful exploration of the composer's lesser-known works. The album also includes the "8 Variations chromatiques, WD 54," the "Menuet de l'arlésienne," and the "Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 22," showcasing Bizet's versatility and mastery of the piano.

With a duration of one hour and six minutes, "Bizet sans Paroles" is a comprehensive journey through the composer's piano repertoire, offering both familiar and hidden gems. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Bizet's music or a newcomer to his works, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The album is released under the Mirare label, ensuring a high standard of production and performance.

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.