The Sound of French Opera

"The Sound of French Opera" is a rich collection of pieces that highlight the grandeur and diversity of French operatic tradition. From the delicate beauty of Massenet’s “Méditation from Thaïs” to the dramatic power of Meyerbeer’s "Les Huguenots," this playlist offers a broad spectrum of French opera’s finest moments. Listeners can enjoy Offenbach’s lively "Barcarolle," Delibes’ enchanting “Blumenduett - Lakmé,” and Bizet’s unforgettable "Habanera" from *Carmen*, alongside lesser-known gems from composers like Grétry, Auber, and Catel.

This playlist also touches on the influence of ballet and orchestral works within French opera, including pieces from *Giselle* and *La fille mal gardée*. With performances from renowned artists like Luciano Pavarotti, Jonas Kaufmann, and Sabine Devieilhe, this selection captures both the elegance and emotional depth of French operatic music. Whether exploring classic arias or discovering hidden treasures, this playlist is a great way to experience the sound of French opera across different eras and styles.

Playlist Genres

Opera

Classical

Baroque

Contemporary Classical

Chamber Music

Orchestra

Choral Classical Performance French Opera Early Music Classical Soprano French Romanticism Avant-garde French Classical Historically Informed Performance Orchestral Performance Classical Tenor French Orchestra Medieval Art Song Avant-garde Classical Musique Ancienne Oratorio Orchestral Music Romantic Music Ballet Baroque Ensemble British Orchestra Early Romantic Era Experimental