Natalie Dessay, the renowned French coloratura soprano, delivers a captivating and technically brilliant performance in her album "Mad Scenes," released on October 19, 2009, under Warner Classics. This collection showcases Dessay's exceptional vocal agility and dramatic prowess through five iconic mad scenes from the opera repertoire. The album spans a diverse range of compositions, featuring works by Italian masters Donizetti and Bellini, French composers Thomas and Meyerbeer, and even a satirical piece by Leonard Bernstein.
The album opens with Donizetti's "Lucie de Lammermoor," followed by Bellini's "I puritani," where Dessay's voice shines with clarity and precision. She then takes on the challenging aria "A vos jeux, mes amis" from Thomas's "Hamlet," demonstrating her ability to convey both fragility and intensity. Bernstein's "Glitter and Be Gay" from "Candide" offers a lighter, more comedic contrast, showcasing Dessay's versatility. The album concludes with another Donizetti masterpiece, "Lucia di Lammermoor," featuring the famous mad scene that has become a signature piece for many sopranos.
Throughout the album, Dessay's performances are marked by her impeccable technique, emotional depth, and dramatic commitment. Each scene is a testament to her ability to bring characters to life, making "Mad Scenes" not just a display of vocal prowess but also a profound exploration of the human psyche. The album's duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes provides a rich and immersive experience, highlighting Dessay's artistry and the enduring power of these operatic masterpieces.
Vinylscout