Immerse yourself in the timeless artistry of Régine Crespin with this exquisite song recital, a masterclass in vocal prowess and musical storytelling. Recorded in the hallowed halls of Kingsway Hall, London, in the summer of 1963, this album captures the essence of Crespin's legendary performances, now remastered and released by Decca Music Group Ltd. in 2014.
Spanning a diverse repertoire, this collection features works by Schumann, Wolf, Debussy, and Poulenc, showcasing Régine Crespin's extraordinary range and versatility. From the poignant poems of Mary Stuart set to music by Schumann to the evocative songs of Wolf's Mörike-Lieder, each track is a testament to Crespin's ability to breathe life into every note. Debussy's sensual "Chansons de Bilitis" and Poulenc's whimsical "Banalités" further highlight her mastery of French art song, while arias from Verdi, Puccini, and Mascagni demonstrate her operatic brilliance.
Accompanied by the esteemed John Wustman, this recital offers a rich tapestry of musical genres and styles, all united by Crespin's enchanting voice. Whether you're a seasoned classical connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of opera and art song, this album promises an unforgettable journey through the golden age of vocal music. With a duration of just under 1 hour and 20 minutes, it's the perfect addition to any classical music lover's collection.
Five Poems of Mary Stuart, Op. 135: 1. Abschied von FrankreichRobert Schumann, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Five Poems of Mary Stuart, Op. 135: 2. Nach der Geburt ihres SohnesRobert Schumann, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Five Poems of Mary Stuart, Op. 135: 3. An die Königin ElisabethRobert Schumann, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Five Poems of Mary Stuart, Op. 135: 4. Abschied von der WeltRobert Schumann, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Five Poems of Mary Stuart, Op. 135: 5. GebetRobert Schumann, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Mörike-Lieder: 24. In der FrüheHugo Wolf, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Mörike-Lieder: 17. Der GärtnerHugo Wolf, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Mörike-Lieder: 7. Das verlassene MägdleinHugo Wolf, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Italienisches Liederbuch: Ich hab' in PennaHugo Wolf, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Gedichte von Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: Anakreons GrabHugo Wolf, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Gedichte von Joseph von Eichendorff: Verschwiegene LiebeHugo Wolf, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Trois chansons de Bilitis, L.90: 1. La flûte de PanClaude Debussy, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Trois chansons de Bilitis, L.90: 2. La chevelureClaude Debussy, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Trois chansons de Bilitis, L.90: 3. Le tombeau des NaïadesClaude Debussy, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Banalités, FP 107: Chanson d'OrkeniseFrancis Poulenc, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Banalités, FP 107: HôtelFrancis Poulenc, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
La Courte Paille, FP 178: 6. Le CarafonFrancis Poulenc, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
La Courte Paille, FP 178: 3. La reine de coeurFrancis Poulenc, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Chansons villageoises, FP 65: 2. Les gars qui vont à la fêteFrancis Poulenc, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Deux Poèmes de Louis Aragon, FP 122: 1. "C"Francis Poulenc, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Deux Poèmes de Louis Aragon, FP 122: 2. Fêtes galantesFrancis Poulenc, Régine Crespin, John Wustman
Il Trovatore / Act 1: "Tacea la notte!"Giuseppe Verdi, Régine Crespin, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Edward Downes
Otello / Act 4: "Mia madre aveva...Piangea cantando...Ave Maria"Giuseppe Verdi, Régine Crespin, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Edward Downes
Mefistofele / Act 3: "L'altra notte in fondo al mare"Arrigo Boito, Régine Crespin, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Edward Downes
Cavalleria rusticana: "Voi lo sapete, o mama" (Romanza)Pietro Mascagni, Régine Crespin, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Edward Downes
Régine Crespin, born in Marseilles in 1927, was a French soprano whose illustrious career spanned nearly four decades, from 1950 to 1989. She was the first French prima donna to achieve a truly international reputation following the Second World War, captivating audiences with her powerful and nuanced performances. Crespin's repertoire was vast, encompassing roles from Italian, French, German, and Russian operas across various musical periods. She was particularly renowned for her interpretations of Wagner and Strauss heroines, earning her the nickname 'the French cannon' from British engineers for her immense vocal power. Her voice was admired for its elegance, warmth, and subtlety, making her a reigning prima donna in the opera world. Crespin's career transitioned to mezzo-soprano roles in the 1970s due to vocal changes, showcasing her adaptability and enduring artistry.
Vinylscout
Régine Crespin
