Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Johann Strauss II's timeless operetta, "La Chauve-Souris," with this captivating album released on August 25, 2023, by Warner Classics. This 40-minute collection features 13 exquisite tracks from the operetta, originally composed by Strauss II and premiered in 1874. "La Chauve-Souris," also known as "Die Fledermaus," is a comic masterpiece that has become synonymous with the operetta genre, transporting listeners to a night of revelry and mischief in Vienna.
The album showcases the brilliance of Strauss II's composition, with each track beautifully performed by a stellar cast of vocalists, including Jacqueline Brumaire, Liliane Berton, Michel Roux, and Franck Pourcel, accompanied by the Orchestre de la Société des Concerts du Conservatoire under the direction of Jean-Christophe Benoît. From the lively "Couplets. 'Versez-nous le champagne'" to the enchanting "Csárdás. 'Ô lointain séjour'," every piece is a testament to Strauss II's genius and the enduring appeal of his music.
"La Chauve-Souris" tells the story of a meticulously planned revenge by Dr. Falke against his friend Gabriel von Eisenstein, who once left him to wander the streets in a bat costume. The operetta is a delightful blend of humor, romance, and intrigue, set against the backdrop of a lavish masquerade ball. This album captures the essence of the operetta, offering a delightful listening experience that showcases the wit and charm of Strauss II's composition.
Whether you're a seasoned fan of classical music or a newcomer to the world of operetta, this album is sure to enchant and delight. The precise orchestration and the lively performances bring the story to life, making it an essential addition to any music lover's collection.
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 1: Introduction. "Ma colombe, entends-tu pas ma voix qui résonne ?" (Alfred, Arlette)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Liliane Berton, Remy Corazza, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 1: Duetto. "Viens souper avec nous" (Gaillardin, Duparquet)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Jean-Christophe Benoît, Pierre Fleta, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 1: Terzetto. "Hélas, quelle est ma peine" (Caroline, Arlette, Gaillardin)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Jacqueline Brumaire, Liliane Berton, Pierre Fleta, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 1: Chanson. "Si je bois un peu, beaucoup" (Alfred, Caroline)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Jacqueline Brumaire, Remy Corazza, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 1: Couplets. "Eh quoi ! Monsieur, supposez-vous..." (Caroline, Alfred, Tourillon)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Jacqueline Brumaire, Michel Roux, Remy Corazza, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 2: Couplets. "Pour un marquis de si bel air" (Arlette)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Liliane Berton, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 2: Csárdás. "Ô lointain séjour" (Caroline)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Jacqueline Brumaire, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 2: Duetto. "L'aventure est divine" (Caroline, Gaillardin)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Jacqueline Brumaire, Pierre Fleta, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 2: Couplets. "Versez-nous le champagne" (Orlofsky, Arlette, Gaillardin, Chœur)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Choeurs Rene Duclos, Jacques Pruvost, Liliane Berton, Pierre Fleta, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 2: Finale. "Ô douceur d'être frère et sœur" (Caroline, Arlette, Gaillardin, Duparquet, Tourillon, Orlofsky, Chœur)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Choeurs Rene Duclos, Jacqueline Brumaire, Jacques Pruvost, Jean-Christophe Benoît, Liliane Berton, Michel Roux, Pierre Fleta, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 2: Valse. "À son tour chacun ici" (Caroline, Arlette, Gaillardin, Duparquet, Tourillon, Orlofsky, Chœur, Flora)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Andrine Forli, Choeurs Rene Duclos, Jacqueline Brumaire, Jacques Pruvost, Jean-Christophe Benoît, Liliane Berton, Michel Roux, Pierre Fleta, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 3: Couplets. "Suis-je dans une opérette ?" (Arlette, Flora, Tourillon)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Andrine Forli, Liliane Berton, Michel Roux, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire
Strauss II, J: La chauve-souris, Act 3: Finale. "Chauve-souris, chauve-souris" (Caroline, Arlette, Gaillardin, Duparquet, Tourillon, Orlofsky, Chœur, Flora, Alfred)Johann Strauss II, Franck Pourcel, Andrine Forli, Choeurs Rene Duclos, Jacqueline Brumaire, Jacques Pruvost, Jean-Christophe Benoît, Liliane Berton, Michel Roux, Pierre Fleta, Remy Corazza
Johann Strauss II, affectionately known as the "Waltz King," was an Austrian composer and violinist whose name is synonymous with the golden age of Viennese dance music. Born into a family of musicians, Strauss II defied his father's wishes for a non-musical career and followed his passion for composition, creating over 500 waltzes, polkas, and operettas that continue to enchant audiences worldwide. His most celebrated works, such as "The Blue Danube," "Kaiser-Walzer," and the operetta "Die Fledermaus," showcase his unparalleled ability to blend melody, rhythm, and harmony, making him a pivotal figure in the development of light classical music. Strauss II's music, characterized by its infectious energy and romantic charm, transcends time, offering a delightful journey through the opulent ballrooms and vibrant streets of 19th-century Vienna.
Vinylscout
Johann Strauss II
