Camille Saint-Saëns: Déjanire

Immerse yourself in the dramatic world of Camille Saint-Saëns' "Déjanire," a captivating opera based on Sophocles' play "The Trachinae." This 2024 release from Bru Zane presents the story of the legendary hero Hercules in a raw and intense light, far removed from his usual heroic portrayals. With a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes, this four-act opera is a profound exploration of human emotion and divine intervention.

The opera, with a libretto by Louis Gallet, is performed in French and features a stellar cast, including Anaïs Constans and Lucien Muratore, accompanied by the Chœur de l'Opéra de Monte-Carlo and the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra under the skilled direction of Kazuki Yamada. The recording, released on April 26, 2024, is the first-ever recording of "Déjanire," making it a significant addition to any classical music collection.

From the haunting preludes to the powerful choruses and arias, "Déjanire" is a testament to Saint-Saëns' mastery of orchestration and his ability to convey deep emotional narratives through music. Each track, from "Act I: Prélude" to the final "Apothéose," offers a glimpse into the tragic tale of Hercules and his wife Déjanire, making this album a compelling listen for both seasoned opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike.