Weill, Brecht & Hauptmann: L'opéra de quat'sous

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless brilliance of "L'opéra de quat'sous," a captivating album that brings together the legendary talents of Kurt Weill, Bertolt Brecht, and Elisabeth Hauptmann. This recording, presented in a fresh French translation by Alexandre Pateau, captures the essence of the iconic "Threepenny Opera" in a way that is both innovative and faithful to the original vision.

Recorded live at the 2023 Festival d'Aix-en-Provence, this album features the renowned troupe of the Comédie-Française and the musicians of Le Balcon, conducted by Maxime Pascal. The performance is a testament to the enduring power of this groundbreaking work, which blends music, theater, and social commentary in a way that remains relevant and thought-provoking.

The album spans a full 75 minutes, encompassing 57 tracks that cover all three acts of the opera. From the haunting melodies of "La complaite de Mac-la Lame" to the energetic rhythms of "Chanson des canons," each piece is performed with precision and passion. The recording captures the raw energy and theatricality of the live performance, making it a standout addition to any classical music collection.

Kurt Weill's score, with its distinctive blend of jazz, cabaret, and classical elements, is brought to life by the exceptional musicians of Le Balcon. The Comédie-Française troupe delivers powerful, nuanced performances that highlight the sharp wit and social critique of Brecht's libretto. The result is a recording that is both a historical document and a vibrant, living piece of art.

"L'opéra de quat'sous" is not just a reimagining of a classic; it is a celebration of the enduring relevance of Weill, Brecht, and Hauptmann's collaboration. Whether you are a longtime fan of the opera or discovering it for the first time, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album is released by Alpha Classics, a label known for its high-quality recordings and commitment to preserving and promoting classical music.

22 sep 2023

2023 Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France

2023 Festival d'Aix-en-Provence, Comédie-Française, Le Balcon & Alpha Classics / Outhere Music France

About Kurt Weill

Kurt Weill, born in Dessau, Germany, in 1900, was a pioneering composer whose innovative spirit bridged the worlds of classical music and theater. Best known for his collaborations with Bertolt Brecht, Weill's works often carried a sharp social commentary, reflecting his belief in music's power to serve a socially useful purpose. Their most famous collaboration, "The Threepenny Opera," introduced the iconic ballad "Mack the Knife" and revolutionized the musical theater landscape. Weill's compositions, ranging from operas to Broadway musicals, seamlessly blended various musical styles, including American popular music, ragtime, and jazz. His notable works include "Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny," "Knickerbocker Holiday," featuring the beloved "September Song," and "Lost in the Stars," which addressed the pressing issue of racism in South Africa. Weill's journey took him from his early years in Germany to his later life in the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen in 1943. His legacy endures as one of the most important and innovative composers of the 20th century.