Chabrier: Briséïs ou Les amants de Corinthe

Album Description

Emmanuel Chabrier's "Briséïs ou Les amants de Corinthe" is a captivating journey into the world of French opera, presented in a comprehensive and meticulously crafted album. Released on April 1, 1995, under the Hyperion label, this recording features the complete opera in 38 tracks, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes. The album showcases the rich vocal talents of Joan Rodgers, Mark Padmore, Simon Keenlyside, and Michael George, under the skilled direction of Jean-Yves Ossonce.

Composed by Emmanuel Chabrier, with lyrics by Ephraïm Mikhaël and Catulle Mendès, "Briséïs ou Les amants de Corinthe" is a dramatic and lyrical masterpiece that brings to life the tragic love story of Briséïs and Hylas. The opera is divided into four scenes, each filled with intricate musical compositions and powerful vocal performances that highlight the depth and range of the characters' emotions. The recording, engineered by Tony Kime at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh, Scotland, captures the opera's grandeur and nuance, providing an immersive listening experience.

This album is a testament to Chabrier's musical genius and his ability to weave a compelling narrative through music. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Briséïs ou Les amants de Corinthe" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The detailed tracklist allows you to explore each scene and aria in depth, appreciating the craftsmanship and artistry that went into its creation.

1 april 1995

℗ 1995 Hyperion Records Limited

About Emmanuel Chabrier

Emmanuel Chabrier, born Alexis-Emmanuel Chabrier, was a French Romantic composer and pianist whose musical journey was as captivating as the era he lived in. Born in Ambert in 1841, Chabrier's life spanned a pivotal period in French musical history, with giants like Berlioz already making waves when he was a young man. Despite his bourgeois upbringing and family disapproval, Chabrier pursued his passion for music, studying law and working as a civil servant while composing in his spare time. It was not until he was nearly forty that he dedicated himself fully to his musical career.

Chabrier's compositions are a delightful blend of French elegance and Spanish flair, with his orchestral works "España" and "Joyeuse marche" being particularly renowned. His life in artistic Montmartre was rich with friendships, including poets like Verlaine, painters such as Renoir, Monet, and Manet, and writers like Zola and Daudet. Chabrier's music reflects the vibrant and diverse cultural milieu in which he thrived, making his works a joy to explore for any music enthusiast.