Bizet: 20 Songs, Op. 21

Featuring

Justina Gringytė
Malcolm Martineau
Georges Bizet

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Composer's Artistic Vision

Bizet's songs in Opus 21 are considered among his most representative works, displaying consistent quality, especially when compared to the more variable inspiration in his operas or salon-inclined piano music.

Critical Reception

Bizet's most famous opera, Carmen, was initially considered a failure due to its characters' perceived immorality and realism, but it achieved universal success only three months after his death.

Performer Biography

Justina Gringytė, the mezzo-soprano on this album, is an award-winning Lithuanian singer praised for her 'knockout technique' and 'thunderously powerful voice,' and is known for her acclaimed portrayal of Carmen.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Bizet's pianistic virtuosity, admired by Franz Liszt, contributed to the boldness and originality of many of his song accompaniments, which often feature brightness, airiness, and occasional ostinato-type figuration.

Performer Biography

Malcolm Martineau, the pianist, is recognized as one of the UK's leading accompanists, having performed worldwide with many of the greatest singers and recorded over 100 albums, including several award-winning ones.

Composer Biography

Georges Bizet, the composer, was admitted to the Paris Conservatoire two weeks before his tenth birthday and won many prizes, including the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1857.