Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Adolphe Adam's "Giselle," a timeless masterpiece in the classical ballet canon. This album, released on May 15, 2015, under the ABC Classic label, offers a comprehensive journey through the iconic ballet, featuring a duration of 1 hour and 52 minutes of captivating music.
"Giselle" is a romantic ballet in two acts, originally titled "Giselle, ou les Wilis." The story unfolds with the tragic love between the peasant girl Giselle and the nobleman Albrecht, whose deception leads to her heartbreak and ultimately, her untimely death. The ballet is renowned for its hauntingly beautiful score, which includes memorable pieces such as the "Peasant Pas de Deux," "Giselle's Variation," and the ethereal "Dance of the Wilis."
This album features a meticulous arrangement of the complete ballet, including alternative versions of key variations, providing a rich and layered listening experience. The performances are brought to life by esteemed orchestras and conductors, ensuring that every note resonates with the depth and passion of the original stage performances.
Adolphe Adam's "Giselle" is not just a ballet; it is a profound exploration of love, betrayal, and redemption. The music, with its intricate orchestration and memorable melodies, captures the essence of the ballet's narrative, making it a cherished addition to any classical music collection. Whether you are a seasoned ballet enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an unforgettable experience.
(C) 2015 Australian Broadcasting Corporation(P) 2015 Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Giselle, Act 1: No. 3 Giselle’s Entrance, Giselle and Albrecht first meet and are discovered by HilarionAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: No. 4 Peasants return from grape harvest, Giselle’s waltz and group danceAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: No. 5 Mother looks for Giselle, and tells her and the peasants of the legend of the dangerous spirits of the forestAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: No. 5a Hilarion plots, Courtiers enter with Duke and Bathilde, Mother serves refreshments, Giselle and Bathilde meet, Bathilde gives Giselle a necklace, Intro to Peasant Pas de deuxAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: Peasant Pas de Deux - Adage, pas de deuxAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: Peasant Pas de Deux - Boy’s First VariationAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: Peasant Pas de Deux - Girl’s First VariationAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: Peasant Pas de Deux - Boy’s Second VariationAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: Peasant Pas de Deux - Girl’s Second Variation, and CodaAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: Exit of the CourtAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: No. 6 Hilarion comes out of hidingAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: No. 7 Dance of the Peasants joined by GirlfriendsAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 1: Finale, Hilarion summons the return of the courtiers, Albrecht’s deception is revealed, Giselle’s mad scene and deathAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 2: No. 9 Introduction to Forest Scene, The clock strikes 12 and Wilis appear for the first time, Hilarion, stormAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 2: No. 10 Appearance of Myrtha, Queen of the WilisAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 2: No. 11 Myrtha’s First Variation, Myrtha summons the WilisAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 2: No. 12 Ensemble Dance of the Wilis, Lead Wilis’ Variations, Myrtha’s Second, Variation, Lead Wilis and ensembleAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 2: No. 15 Wilis exit, Albrecht at Giselle’s grave, Giselle appears to Albrecht - No. 16 Pas de Deux Giselle and AlbrechtAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 2: No. 17 Hilarion is killed by the Wilis, Albrecht is confronted by Myrtha, Giselle enters and protects AlbrechtAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Giselle, Act 2: No. 18 Giselle and Albrecht Pas de deuxAdolphe Adam, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Nicolette Fraillon
Adolphe Charles Adam, born on July 24, 1803, in Paris, was a prolific French composer whose musical legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The son of a renowned Alsatian pianist and composer, Adam's journey into music began under the tutelage of Henri Lemoine, and he later enrolled at the prestigious Paris Conservatoire in 1820. Despite his father's initial reservations, Adam's passion for music flourished, leading him to study under notable figures such as Anton Reicha and François-Adrien Boieldieu. Adam's compositions, particularly his operas and ballets, have left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. His most enduring works include the ballet "Giselle," often hailed as the quintessential romantic ballet, and the beloved Christmas carol "Minuit, Chrétiens." Throughout his career, Adam composed an impressive forty-six operas, cementing his status as a master of lyric composition. His contributions to the world of music are a testament to his enduring talent and creativity.
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Adolphe Adam
