Description
Jules Massenet – Manon (2-CD Set, EMI Classics, Michel Plasson)
UPC: 077774961028
MPN: CDCB 49610
Brand Name: EMI Classics
Overview
Jules Massenet’s Manon stands as one of the most beloved operas in the French repertoire. This EMI Classics 2-CD digital stereo recording, conducted by Michel Plasson with the Chœur et Orchestre du Capitole de Toulouse, captures the full dramatic and musical range of Massenet’s masterpiece.
Featuring Ileana Cotrubaș as Manon and Alfredo Kraus as Le Chevalier des Grieux, alongside Gino Quilico and José van Dam, this 1983 recording remains a benchmark interpretation—rich in lyrical expressiveness, emotional nuance, and authentic French style.
Product Features
- Format: 2 Compact Discs (Digital Stereo, DDD)
-
Total Duration:
Genre: Classical / Opera- CD 1 – 78:55
- CD 2 – 74:55
- Composer: Jules Massenet (1842–1912)
- Work: Manon – Opéra-comique en 5 actes et 6 tableaux
- Libretto: Henri Meilhac & Philippe Gille (after Abbé Prévost’s novel)
- Recording Year: 1983
- Label: EMI France (EMI Classics)
- Catalogue Number: CDS 7 49610 2 / PM 613
- Place of Manufacture: Printed in Germany
- Country of Issue: USA
Interesting Facts
- A Defining French Opera: Massenet’s Manon is a cornerstone of the French lyric tradition, balancing light-hearted charm with deep emotional tragedy.
- An All-Star Cast: Ileana Cotrubaș’s radiant voice brings youthful sensitivity to Manon, while Alfredo Kraus lends elegance and passion to Des Grieux. José van Dam and Gino Quilico complete the cast with power and poise.
- Michel Plasson’s Interpretation: Known for his deep connection to French opera, Michel Plasson delivers a reading that emphasizes orchestral color and vocal warmth, perfectly suited to Massenet’s refined romanticism.
- High-Fidelity Digital Recording: This early 1980s DDD stereo recording exemplifies EMI’s attention to sound detail, offering a clear, natural balance between voices and orchestra.
Performers
- Manon: Ileana Cotrubaș
- Le Chevalier des Grieux: Alfredo Kraus
- Lescaut: Gino Quilico
- Le Comte des Grieux: José van Dam
- Guillot de Morfontaine: Charles Brules
- De Brétigny: Jean-Marie Frémeau
- Poussette: Ghyslaine Raphanel
- Javotte: Colette Alliot-Lugaz
- Rosette: Martine Mahé
- L’hôtelier: Jacques Loreau
- Deux Gardes: Roger Trentin, Jean Mélac
Chœur et Orchestre du Capitole de Toulouse Chorus Master: Guy Lhomme Coach Master: Janine Reiss Conductor: Michel Plasson
Publishers
© 1983 EMI France. An international trademark of EMI Records Ltd. All rights reserved.
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