Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, one of the most celebrated baritones of the 20th century, presents a captivating recital of works by Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel. Released in 1960 under the Deutsche Grammophon label, this album is a testament to Fischer-Dieskau's extraordinary vocal prowess and interpretive depth. The program is a diverse and engaging journey through various musical styles and themes, spanning opera and classical genres.
The album opens with three Ballades de François Villon, showcasing Fischer-Dieskau's ability to convey the poetic and narrative depth of these medieval French texts. Following this, the Chansons madécasses offer a glimpse into the exotic and evocative world of Debussy's imagination, with Fischer-Dieskau's nuanced delivery bringing each character to life. The Five Greek Popular Melodies provide a taste of the Mediterranean, with Fischer-Dieskau's warm and expressive baritone perfectly capturing the spirit of these folk tunes.
The album concludes with Don Quichotte à Dulcinée, a set of three songs inspired by the famous literary character. Fischer-Dieskau's interpretation is both humorous and poignant, demonstrating his versatility and mastery of the art song repertoire. Throughout the album, Fischer-Dieskau's impeccable diction, phrasing, and emotional range shine, making this a truly memorable listening experience.
3 Ballades de François Villon, CD 126: No. 1, Ballade de Villon à s'amyeClaude Debussy, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
3 Ballades de François Villon, CD 126: No. 2, Ballade que Villon fait à la requeste de sa mère pour prier Nostre DameClaude Debussy, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
3 Ballades de François Villon, CD 126: No. 3, Ballade des femmes de ParisClaude Debussy, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
Chansons madécasses, M. 78: No. 1, Nahandove. Andante quasi allegrettoMaurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Aurèle Nicolet, Irmgard Poppen, Karl Engel
Chansons madécasses, M. 78: No. 2, Aoua! Aoua! AndanteMaurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Aurèle Nicolet, Irmgard Poppen, Karl Engel
Chansons madécasses, M. 78: No. 3, Il est doux de se coucher. LentoMaurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Aurèle Nicolet, Irmgard Poppen, Karl Engel
5 Mélodies populaires grecques: No. 1, Le réveil de la mariée, M. A9Maurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
5 Mélodies populaires grecques: No. 2, Là-bas, vers l'église, M. A10Maurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
5 Mélodies populaires grecques: No. 3, Quel galant m'est comparable, M. A4Maurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
5 Mélodies populaires grecques: No. 4, Chanson des ceuilleuses de lentisques, M. A5Maurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
5 Mélodies populaires grecques: No. 5, Tout gai!, M. A11Maurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
Don Quichotte à Dulcinée, M. 84: No. 1, Chanson romanesqueMaurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
Don Quichotte à Dulcinée, M. 84: No. 2, Chanson épiqueMaurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel
Don Quichotte à Dulcinée, M. 84: No. 3, Chanson à boireMaurice Ravel, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, Karl Engel