Tragédiennes

Dive into the rich tapestry of French Baroque opera with Véronique Gens' captivating album, "Tragédiennes." This exquisite collection, released in 2006, showcases the extraordinary vocal prowess of Gens as she navigates the dramatic and lyrical depths of 17th and 18th-century French opera. Accompanied by the renowned Les Talens Lyriques under the direction of Christophe Rousset, Gens brings to life a selection of arias and scenes from the works of masters such as Lully, Rameau, Campra, and Mondonville.

The album spans a diverse range of operatic masterpieces, including highlights from "Armide," "Hippolyte et Aricie," "Castor et Pollux," and "Iphigénie en Aulide." Each track is a testament to Gens' ability to convey the nuanced emotions and dramatic intensity of these historic roles. From the haunting beauty of "Enfin il est en ma puissance" to the powerful declaration of "Dieux puissants que j'atteste... Jupiter, lance la foudre," Gens' performances are both technically impressive and deeply expressive.

"Tragédiennes" is a celebration of the French Baroque opera tradition, offering a unique opportunity to experience the timeless artistry of these works. With a duration of 70 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for both classical music enthusiasts and those discovering the rich heritage of French opera. The meticulous attention to historical performance practices, coupled with the exceptional talents of Véronique Gens and Les Talens Lyriques, makes "Tragédiennes" a standout addition to any classical music collection.