Chabrier: L'étoile

Album Description

Emmanuel Chabrier's "L'étoile" is a delightful journey into the world of opéra bouffe, capturing the essence of French comic opera with its whimsical plot and infectious melodies. Composed in 1877, this three-act opera is a testament to Chabrier's inventive genius, blending humor and virtuosity in a way that has captivated audiences for over a century. The story revolves around the eccentric King Ouf, whose life is intertwined with that of the young Lazuli, leading to a series of comedic misadventures and romantic entanglements. This live recording, released in 2010, features all 28 tracks from the opera, spanning over an hour of enchanting music. The album showcases Chabrier's unique ability to create buoyant, entertaining music that stands the test of time. From the overture to the final couplets, each track is a testament to Chabrier's mastery of the operatic form, making this album a treasure trove for fans of classical music and opera enthusiasts alike. The recording captures the live energy and spontaneity of a performance, bringing the opera's charm and wit to life in a way that is both engaging and entertaining.

1 jan 2010

2010 Music Preserved

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.