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It would be difficult to find a simpler and more poignant subject', Massenet remarked during the composition of Ariane, a vast score in five acts premiered at the Paris Opéra in October 1906. The libretto by Catulle Mendès is part ancient drama, part symbolist poem, and sets Phaedra and Ariadne, two sisters in love with Theseus, in violent conflict with each other. This epic work does not shrink from relating the combat against the Minotaur, from showing a ship tossed by the raging billows, nor even from transporting the audience to the Underworld where Persephone reigns. Despite it's flamboyant orchestration, it's grandiose scenography and it's triumphant premiere, Ariane remains one of the few Massenet operas never recorded until now. The young Egyptian soprano Amina Edris takes the title role with ardour and passion, surrounded by a cast well versed in the specificities of the French style. The Bavarian Radio Chorus provides dedicated support in the epic scenes, under the baton of Laurent Campellone, a great champion of Massenet. Album Tracks 1. Ariane~Acte premier. Prélude et Scène Vers les rives blanches 2. Ariane~Acte premier. Scène Quoi! dans le Labyrinthe énorme 3. Ariane~Acte premier. Air Délices de mon cœur violent 4. Ariane~Acte premier. Scène Ôfrêle corps, trop faible, hélas! 5. Ariane~Acte premier. Air Chère Cypris, Cypris compatissante 6. Ariane~Acte premier. Entrée de Phèdre Ariane! 7. Ariane~Acte premier. Arioso et Scène La fine grâce de sa force 8. Ariane~Acte premier. Duo Cypris! Heureuse qui suivit 9. Ariane~Acte premier. Combat du Minotaure À l'aide! Roi Thésée 10. Ariane~Acte premier. Scène avec Chœur Libres! 11. Ariane~Acte premier. Entrée de Thésée Certes nous irons 12. Ariane~Acte premier. Air et Scène Ariane, ô bouche fleurie 13. Ariane~Acte premier. Scène finale Que les fleurs 14. Ariane~Acte deuxi
