Saint-Saëns Etienne Marcel

[Alan Howe]

I was wondering whether anyone had taken a punt on this recording:
http://premiereopera.net/product/etienne-marcel-by-saint-saens-montpellier-1994-mono
Comments on both the opera and the performance would be most welcome...

[mjmosca]

Yes, this is another opera by Saint-Saens that needs a first rate recording. While there are some "libretto" problems, the ending seems a little anti climactic, the music is vivid and very powerful- great crowd scenes, and colorful, melodic music throughout. The cast is good- Alain Fondary (who is also Henry VIII in the outstanding performance from the same source) is strong, Michele Legrand who sings Beatrix (superb) and very good mezzo (the Dauphin, a trouser role) and the tenor - capable but perhaps not well recorded (voice tends to blast). Not conventionally set up with many arias, however, but perhaps more realistic because of that. There is a fine aria for Beatrix followed by a radiant love duet that concludes the act. Wonderful music! Henry VIII has the better libretto by far and thus is a more complete experience, but Etienne Marcel is very enjoyable- the conductor keeps things moving - an exciting work. Chorus and orchestra are very good- everyone seems to be fired up! Highly recommended.

Now, if we could get a recording (even a pirate) of Ascanio !! I am sure there is much more to discover.

[Alan Howe]

Thanks very much indeed for that detailed and enticing assessment.

[Alan Howe]

The opera's on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WciZ2PAvKm8