Berlioz & Ravel: Works for Soprano & Orchestra

Featuring

John Axelrod
Véronique Gens
Orchestre National des Pays de la Loire
Hector Berlioz
Maurice Ravel

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Compositional Technique

A melody from Berlioz's Herminie was later used as the theme for the famous idée fixe in his Symphonie fantastique.

Recording & Production

This album was recorded in Nantes in 2009 and 2010, and produced by the Orchestre National des Pays de la Loire.

Composition History

Ravel's Shéhérazade, composed in 1903, was influenced by Russian music and his fascination with the Arabian Nights.

Performer Biography

Véronique Gens, the soprano on this album, studied at the Paris Conservatoire with Franco-American conductor William Christie, who taught her rigorous regard for text and clear diction.

Performer Biography

Véronique Gens has been recognized with significant French honors, including being nominated 'Chevalier' by 'L'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres' in 2006 and appointed 'Chevalier' by the 'Légion d'honneur' in 2011.

Performer Biography

Véronique Gens considers Mozart to be fundamental to her singing, stating that if one can sing Mozart, their voice is in good shape.

Composition History

Berlioz's Herminie, a cantata for soprano and orchestra, was his second attempt at the prestigious Prix de Rome, for which he only received second prize in 1828.