Hector Berlioz - Heroique - French Opera Arias on CD

Description

"In the space of just a few years, the American tenor Bryan Hymel has become closely identified with the kind of repertoire that is showcased in this recital, his first recording for Warner Classics: opera in French that demands a thrilling heroism in both voice and style. The imaginatively conceived programme showcases his prowess in arias to French texts by Verdi and Rossini, by Berlioz, Meyerbeer, Gounod and Massenet, and by three composers whose works are rarely heard today: Reyer, Bruneau and Rabaud. “A Héroïque performance from a tenor on the up … Bryan Hymel has top-notch top notes and heart” (4 Stars) - The Times “…the many glories of Hymel’s voice: it’s brilliant attack, it’s dark-timbred middle and lower registers, to which he adds a bright, gleaming top, throwing out Bs, Cs and C sharps with a hint of effort or fear … sublime.” (Album of the Week, 22 March 2015) - The Sunday Times “[a] blend of heroism and high notes – top Cs and above trupetingly delivered” (4 stars) - Financial Times"