Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of André Messager's "Monsieur Beaucaire," a captivating operetta that has stood the test of time. Originally premiered in 1919, this delightful work showcases Messager's mastery of melody and his keen sense of theatricality. The album, released on Warner Classics, offers a concise yet rich experience, clocking in at just over 40 minutes.
"Monsieur Beaucaire" is a gem from the French composer and conductor André Messager, known for his contributions to the ballet and operetta genres. This recording brings to life the whimsical story of Monsieur Beaucaire, a barber who finds himself in a series of comedic and romantic entanglements. The operetta is filled with witty dialogue, charming arias, and lively choruses that transport you to the elegant and humorous world of early 20th-century France.
The album features a variety of musical highlights, from the enchanting "Au jardin où les fleurs sont écloses" to the playful duets and choruses that bring the story to life. Each track is a testament to Messager's ability to blend humor, romance, and musical sophistication. Whether you're a seasoned operetta enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Monsieur Beaucaire" offers a delightful and engaging listening experience.
This recording is a wonderful introduction to André Messager's work, showcasing his unique style and his enduring contribution to the world of classical music. With its charming melodies and witty libretto, "Monsieur Beaucaire" is a timeless piece that continues to captivate audiences a century after its premiere.
Messager: Monsieur Beaucaire: Introduction. "Cher Molyneux, parlez-moi donc de votre ami Monsieur Beaucaire" (Lucy, Molyneux)André Messager, Jules Gressier, Liliane Berton, René Lenoty, Orchestre Lamoureux
Messager: Monsieur Beaucaire, Act 1: "Au jardin où les fleurs sont écloses" - Mélodie. "Ô rose, merveilleux butin" (Beaucaire, Lucy, Molyneux)André Messager, Jules Gressier, Liliane Berton, Michel Dens, René Lenoty, Orchestre Lamoureux
Messager: Monsieur Beaucaire, Act 1: Duo. "Pour faire une prisonnière" (Lucy, Molyneux)André Messager, Jules Gressier, Liliane Berton, René Lenoty, Orchestre Lamoureux
Messager: Monsieur Beaucaire, Act 1: Chœur. "Souhaitons la bienvenue" - Entrée de Lady Mary. "Vous me reprochez ma froideur" (Chœur, Lady Mary, Lucy, Molyneux)André Messager, Jules Gressier, Chœurs Raymond Saint-Paul, Liliane Berton, Martha Angelici, René Lenoty, Orchestre Lamoureux
Messager: Monsieur Beaucaire, Act 1: Entrée de Beaucaire. "Qui donc vient là-bas vers nous ?" (Chœur, Winterset, Molyneux, Lady Mary, Beaucaire, Lucy)André Messager, Jules Gressier, Chœurs Raymond Saint-Paul, Gilbert Moryn, Liliane Berton, Martha Angelici, Michel Dens, René Lenoty, Orchestre Lamoureux
Messager: Monsieur Beaucaire, Act 1: Duo. "Vous me demandez une rose" (Lady Mary, Beaucaire)André Messager, Jules Gressier, Martha Angelici, Michel Dens, Orchestre Lamoureux
Messager: Monsieur Beaucaire, Act 2: Chœur. "Le jour diminue" - Valse. "Ah, rossignol !" (Chœur, Winterset, Lady Mary, Lucy, Molyneux)André Messager, Jules Gressier, Chœurs Raymond Saint-Paul, Gilbert Moryn, Liliane Berton, Martha Angelici, René Lenoty, Orchestre Lamoureux
Messager: Monsieur Beaucaire, Act 2: Duo. "Quoi, si doux, ce soir est sur vous sans pouvoir" (Beaucaire, Lady Mary, Molyneux, Lucy)André Messager, Jules Gressier, Liliane Berton, Martha Angelici, Michel Dens, René Lenoty, Orchestre Lamoureux
André Charles Prosper Messager, born in 1853, was a versatile French artist whose talents spanned composition, organ playing, piano, and conducting. His repertoire is a delightful journey through the world of ballet and opera, with eight enchanting ballets and thirty captivating opéras comiques, opérettes, and other stage works to his name. Messager's compositions, such as the enduringly popular ballet "Les Deux Pigeons" and the opéra comique "Véronique," showcase his light, elegant style that charmed audiences in France and England alike. His works like "Les p'tites Michu" and "Monsieur Beaucaire" also enjoyed international acclaim, cementing his status as a beloved figure in the world of music. Throughout his career, Messager's contributions to the stage left an indelible mark, making him a cherished name in the annals of musical history.
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André Messager
