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Jonas Kaufmann - L'Opera pays homage to operatic splendor and elegance / WFMT Radio

Jonas Kaufmann's L'Opera pays homage to a magnificent era of opera that defined musical splendor and elegance, in his new album of 19th-century French opera arias and duets. His selection of music for tenor spans this momentous period, starting with "Rachel, quand du Seigneur" from Halévy's La Juive (1835), through two of Bizet's greatest works, "La fleur que tu m'avais jetée" from Carmen (1875) and "Au fond du temple saint" from Les Pêcheurs de perles (1863), by way of Gounod's "Ah! lève-toi, soleil!" from Roméo et Juliette (1867) and ending with the latest aria "Pourquoi me réveiller" from Massenet's masterpiece Werther (1892). Plus many more along the way.  "The French operatic repertory is very close to my heart," says Kaufmann. "This fascinating music reflects a period in European culture. I didn't want to choose only highlights for this album but also works and roles that have been key experiences for me"

Features - Jonas Kaufmann, tenor; Ludovic Tézier, baritone; Bavarian State Opera Orchestra / Bertrand de Billy

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