Bizet: Carmen, WD 31

Experience the timeless allure of Georges Bizet's masterpiece, Carmen, with this exquisite live recording, remastered in 2022. This album, released on January 20, 2023, under the EMEC - HD Remastered label, captures the essence of Bizet's iconic opera in a series of captivating excerpts. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 32 minutes, this collection offers a vivid journey through the passionate and dramatic narrative of Carmen, set against the vibrant backdrop of southern Spain.

The album features a stellar cast, including Pedro Lavirgen, Elena Cernei, and Carlo Felipe Cillario, who bring depth and intensity to their respective roles. The performances are complemented by the London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the renowned Claudio Abbado, ensuring a rich and immersive musical experience.

From the defiant "L'amour est un oiseau rebelle" to the intense duet "Si tu m'aimes, Carmen," each track is a testament to Bizet's genius and the enduring appeal of his opera. The live recording captures the energy and spontaneity of a live performance, making it a standout addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an unforgettable auditory experience.

Georges Bizet, born in Paris in 1838, was a prodigious French composer whose name is forever linked with one of the most beloved operas of all time, "Carmen." His musical journey began at an early age, with his father, a singing teacher, and his mother, a talented pianist, nurturing his gifts. Bizet's precocious talent led him to the Paris Conservatoire at just nine years old, where he composed his Symphony in C Major at the age of 17. Despite facing early setbacks and struggles, Bizet's determination to succeed on the operatic stage led to works like "The Pearl Fishers" and "La Jolie Fille de Perth." However, it was his final opera, "Carmen," that would cement his legacy. Premiering just months before his untimely death in 1875, "Carmen" has since become a staple of the opera repertoire, known for its vivid characters, dramatic plot, and unforgettable music. Bizet's realistic approach to opera influenced the verismo style that followed, making him a pivotal figure in the Romantic era of classical music.