Experience the enchanting world of Giselle, a timeless romantic ballet masterpiece composed by Adolphe Adam. This album, released in 2015, offers a comprehensive journey through the entire ballet, featuring all 42 tracks from both acts, allowing you to immerse yourself in the full narrative and musical splendor of this classic work.
The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Nicolette Fraillon, delivers a stunning performance that captures the essence of Adam's score, from the lively peasant dances to the hauntingly beautiful Wilis' scenes. The album spans approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes, providing a rich and detailed listening experience that ballet enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike will cherish.
Giselle, originally titled Giselle, ou les Wilis, tells the tragic tale of a peasant girl who, driven to madness and death by the deceit of her lover, joins the ranks of the Wilis—vengeful spirits of jilted brides. The ballet is renowned for its poignant storytelling, ethereal choreography, and, of course, its enchanting music. This album brings the full spectacle of Giselle to life, track by track, allowing you to follow the story from the lively peasant scenes in Act 1 to the eerie, otherworldly atmosphere of Act 2.
Whether you're a seasoned ballet aficionado or new to the world of classical music, this recording of Giselle by Adolphe Adam is a captivating exploration of one of the most beloved ballets in history. The detailed tracklist ensures that you can follow the narrative closely, making it an ideal companion for both casual listening and in-depth study.
(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 Adam, born in Paris in 1803, was a prolific French composer whose name is synonymous with some of the most beloved works in the realm of ballet and opera. Despite his father's initial reluctance, Adam pursued his passion for music, eventually enrolling at the Paris Conservatoire. His compositions, which include the iconic ballet "Giselle" and the operatic masterpiece "Le Postillon de Lonjumeau," have left an indelible mark on the world of classical music. Adam's repertoire spans forty-six operas, fourteen ballets, and numerous opérettes and vaudevilles, showcasing his versatility and enduring talent. His collaborations with notable figures like Eugène Scribe and Boieldieu further enriched his body of work. Adam's legacy endures through his timeless compositions, which continue to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of musicians.