Chabrier’s extraordinary, if incomplete, opera is surely a precursor to Salome and eclipses even that most lurid work in the gloriously opulent sensuality of its music. Performed at the Edinburgh Festival by some of the greatest singers of the day and recorded live by Hyperion, this thrilling performance stunned critics and public alike.

A genuinely wonderful discovery.

Cast:
- Briséïs: Joan Rodgers (soprano)
- Hylas: Mark Padmore (tenor)
- Le Catéchiste: Simon Keenlyside (baritone)
- Stratoklès: Michael George (bass)
- Thanastô: Kathryn Harries (mezzo-soprano)
- First Maidservant: Gillian Taylor (soprano)
- Second Maidservant: Anne Hetherington (soprano)
- First Servant: Graeme Danby (bass)
- Second Servant: John Prince (bass)

‘A highlight of last year’s Edinburgh Festival … a memorable experience … gorgeous … an extraordinarily voluptuous and erotic affair. Joan Rodgers sings ravishingly … Ossonce brings this exciting rarity to throbbing life’ - The Sunday Telegraph

‘For those who heard Chabrier’s incomplete magnum opus at last year’s Festival this recording will need no recommendation … fabulously rewarding’ - The Scotsman

‘Laurels for whoever’s idea it was to capture this Edinburgh Festival concert on CD, to cast and record it so well, and to package it so excellently. French opera buffs should rush to buy it’ - The Musical Times

‘The most opulent discographic discovery of the decade… sumptuous, colorful, sensuous, passionate, it was an astonishing achievement, and, for listeners, a rare discovery’ - Fanfare, USA

Penguin Guide Rosette · Gramophone Critics' Choice

[from CDA66803]