Bizet: Selected Piano Works

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Georges Bizet's piano repertoire with "Bizet: Selected Piano Works." Released on July 1, 2017, this exquisite collection showcases the versatility and brilliance of Bizet, a composer renowned for his operatic masterpieces like Carmen. The album spans a generous 77 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that range from grand valses and nocturnes to intricate variations and suites.

This compilation features some of Bizet's most enchanting piano works, including the elegant "Grande Valse de Concert," the hauntingly beautiful "Premier Nocturne," and the dynamic "Chasse Fantastique." The album also includes the complete "Chants du Rhin" cycle, a series of six evocative pieces that paint a vivid musical portrait of the Rhine. Additionally, the "L'Arlesienne Suite No. 1" is presented in its entirety, offering a glimpse into Bizet's ability to craft intricate and expressive instrumental works.

Recorded with pristine sound quality by Musikproduktion Dabringhaus und Grimm, this album is a testament to Bizet's enduring legacy in the classical music world. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Bizet's work or a newcomer to his compositions, "Bizet: Selected Piano Works" is a must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the depth and beauty of his piano repertoire.

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.