Meyerbeer: Robert le diable

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of 19th-century opera with Giacomo Meyerbeer's "Robert le diable," a monumental work that captivated audiences across Europe for decades. This 2013 release from Brilliant Classics presents the full, unabridged opera, spanning nearly two and a half hours of breathtaking music and drama.

Composed between 1827 and 1831, "Robert le diable" is a grand opera in five acts, with a libretto by Eugène Scribe. The story unfolds with a mix of romance, intrigue, and supernatural elements, set to Meyerbeer's lush and dramatic score. The opera is renowned for its spectacular ballet sequences, including the famous "Ballet of the Nuns" and the "Witches' Sabbath," which showcase Meyerbeer's innovative use of harmony and orchestration.

This recording features a stellar cast of singers, including Bryan Hymel, who delivers a powerful performance as the titular character, Robert. The opera is accompanied by the Symphonic Orchestra of the Teatro Verdi, Salerno, under the baton of Daniel Oren, ensuring a rich and vibrant sound throughout.

"Robert le diable" is a testament to Meyerbeer's mastery of the grand opera genre, blending memorable melodies, dramatic tension, and orchestral brilliance. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to one of the most influential works of the 19th century. With its engaging narrative and stunning music, "Robert le diable" is sure to leave a lasting impression.

November 19, 2013

2012 Brilliant Classics

2013 Brilliant Classics

About Giacomo Meyerbeer

Giacomo Meyerbeer, born Jacob Liebmann Beer, was a German opera composer who rose to become one of the most celebrated and influential figures in 19th-century music. Hailing from a wealthy Jewish family in Prussia, Meyerbeer's journey took him through Italy and France, where he honed his craft and adopted his stage name. He is renowned for pioneering the grand opera genre, blending German orchestral style with Italian vocal traditions to create spectacular, melodramatic works that captivated audiences. His collaborations with librettist Eugène Scribe resulted in iconic operas like "Robert le diable," "Les Huguenots," and "Le prophète," which set the standard for Parisian opera and solidified the city's reputation as the opera capital of the world. Meyerbeer's innovations and dramatic flair left an indelible mark on the operatic landscape, influencing composers such as Richard Wagner and solidifying his legacy as a bridge between the classical and romantic eras.