Dive into the enchanting world of Igor Stravinsky's "Le rossignol" (The Nightingale), a captivating classical masterpiece released in 1955 under the BNF Collection label. This neoclassical orchestral work, spanning 47 minutes, is a symphonic poem based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, bringing to life a rich tapestry of characters and scenes through its evocative music.
The album opens with "The Nightingale: Introduction. Nocturnal Scene, by the Sea Shore," setting the stage with a hauntingly beautiful choir performance. As the story unfolds, you'll be transported to a world of fishermen, courtiers, and the magical nightingale herself. Each act is a journey through different musical landscapes, from the delicate and ethereal to the grand and dramatic.
Stravinsky's composition is a testament to his genius, blending traditional Russian folk elements with innovative orchestration. The Nightingale's song, sung by a soprano, is a highlight, showcasing the beauty and expressiveness of the human voice. The album also features a variety of vocal and instrumental performances, including a striking Chinese March and a mesmerizing Performance of the Mechanical Nightingale.
"Le rossignol" is not just a retelling of Andersen's tale; it's a exploration of life, death, and the power of art. Stravinsky's music brings depth and nuance to the story, making it a compelling listen for both classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you're a longtime fan of Stravinsky or discovering his work for the first time, this album is a treasure trove of musical delights.
The Nightingale: Introduction. Nocturnal Scene, by the Sea Shore (Choir)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Chœurs de la Radiodiffusion française
The Nightingale, Act I: "Porté au vent, tombant au loin" (Fisherman)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Jean Giraudeau
The Nightingale, Act I: "Ah ! Quand du ciel tomba la rayonnante étoile..." (Nightingale, Fisherman)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Janine Micheau, Jean Giraudeau
The Nightingale, Act I: "Voici l'endroit" (Cook, Chamberlain, Bonze, Courtiers, Nightingale)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Genevieve Moizan, Michel Roux, Bernard Cottret, Chœurs de la Radiodiffusion française, Janine Micheau
The Nightingale, Act I: "Ailes et voix l'esprit donna" (Fisherman)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Jean Giraudeau
The Nightingale, Act II: "Entracte. Breezes. "Des feux, bien vite illuminez"" (Choir, Soprano, Tenor, Alto, Cook, Chamberlain)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Chœurs de la Radiodiffusion française, Claudine Collart, Jospeh Peyron, Christiane Gayraud, Genevieve Moizan, Michel Roux
The Nightingale, Act II: Chinese March - "Ô maître magnanime" (Chamberlain)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Michel Roux
The Nightingale, Act II: Song of the Nightingale. "Ah, joie, emplis mon cœur" (Nightingale)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Janine Micheau
The Nightingale, Act II: "Quel chant délicieux !" (Emperor, Nightingale, Courtiers, Chamberlain, Japanese Envoys)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Lucien Lovano, Janine Micheau, Chœurs de la Radiodiffusion française, Michel Roux, Jospeh Peyron, Camille Maurane, Jean Giraudeau
The Nightingale, Act II: Performance of the Mechanical Nightingale - "Psst, psst, tui, tui..." (Courtiers, Emperor, Chamberlain)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Chœurs de la Radiodiffusion française, Lucien Lovano, Michel Roux
The Nightingale, Act II: "Voilant de brume astres et cieux" (Fisherman)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Jean Giraudeau
The Nightingale, Act III: Introduction - "Vois-nous rassemblés" (Spectres, Emperor, Nightingale)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Chœurs de la Radiodiffusion française, Lucien Lovano, Janine Micheau
The Nightingale, Act III: "La nuit fait place à l'aurore" (Nightingale, Emperor)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Janine Micheau, Lucien Lovano
The Nightingale, Act III: "Ah, j'aime à t'écouter" (Death, Nightingale)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Christiane Gayraud, Janine Micheau
The Nightingale, Act III: "Les morts en paix y dorment" (Nightingale, Emperor)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Janine Micheau, Lucien Lovano
The Nightingale, Act III: Solemn Procession - "Le clair soleil chasse la nuit" (Emperor, Fisherman)Igor Stravinsky, French National Radio Orchestra, André Cluytens, Lucien Lovano, Jean Giraudeau