Dive into the enchanting world of opera with Maurice André's "Airs d'opéras," a captivating collection of operatic arias reimagined for trumpet and orchestra. Released on April 30, 2012, under the Warner Classics label, this album spans a little over an hour and features 14 tracks that showcase André's virtuosity and the rich tapestry of operatic history.
From the hauntingly beautiful "Der Hölle Rache" from Mozart's "Die Zauberflöte" to the soaring melodies of Verdi's "La donna è mobile" from "Rigoletto," each piece is meticulously arranged to highlight the trumpet's expressive range. André's masterful performance brings a fresh perspective to beloved arias, making this album a treasure trove for both classical enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
The album opens with the dramatic "Queen of the Night Aria" from Mozart's "Die Zauberflöte," setting the stage for a journey through some of the most iconic operas in history. Bellini's "Casta diva" from "Norma," Donizetti's "Una furtiva lagrima" from "L'elisir d'amore," and Bizet's "Séguedille" from "Carmen" are just a few of the gems that await. Each track is a testament to André's technical prowess and his deep understanding of the operatic repertoire.
"Airs d'opéras" is not just a collection of arias; it's a celebration of Maurice André's legacy as one of the greatest trumpet players of all time. His ability to infuse each note with passion and precision makes this album a timeless addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a seasoned opera lover or simply appreciate beautiful music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Mozart: Die Zauberflöte, K. 620, Act 2: Queen of the Night Aria. "Der Hölle Rache" (Arr. for Trumpet and Orchestra)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Bellini: Norma, Act 1: "Casta diva" (Arr. for Trumpet and Orchestra)Vincenzo Bellini, Maurice André, Choeurs du Capitole de Toulouse, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Lakmé: Où va la jeune indoue (Bell Song)Edmond Gondinet, Léo Delibes, Philippe Gille, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson
Donizetti: L'elisir d'amore, Act 2: "Una furtiva lagrima" (Arr. for Trumpet and Orchestra)Gaetano Donizetti, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Verdi: Rigoletto, Act 3: "La donna è mobile" (Arr. for Trumpet and Orchestra)Giuseppe Verdi, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Ponchielli: La Gioconda, Op. 9, Act 2: "Cielo e mar!" (Arr. for Trumpet and Orchestra)Amilcare Ponchielli, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Don Pasquale: Quel guardo il cavaliereGaetano Donizetti, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson
(Die) Entführung aus dem Serail, '(The) Abduction from the hareem' K384: Martern aller ArtenWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson
Semiramide: Bel raggio lusinghierGioachino Rossini, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson
Offenbach: Les contes d'Hoffmann, Act 2: "Les oiseaux dans la charmille" (Arr. for Trumpet and Orchestra)Jacques Offenbach, Maurice André, Choeurs du Capitole de Toulouse, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
I Puritani: Son vergin vezzosaVincenzo Bellini, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson
Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute), K.620: Ach, ich fühl'sWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson
Puccini: La bohème, Act 1: "Che gelida manina" (Arr. for Trumpet and Orchestra)Giacomo Puccini, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse
Bizet: Carmen, WD 31, Act 1: Séguedille. "Près des remparts de Séville" (Arr. for Trumpet and Orchestra)Georges Bizet, Maurice André, Orchestre Du Capitole De Toulouse, Michel Plasson, Orchestre National Du Capitole De Toulouse