Natalie Dessay's "Merry Christmas" is a captivating opera album that serves as the original soundtrack to the 2005 war drama film "Joyeux Noël," which depicts the remarkable Christmas truce of 1914 on the Western Front during World War I. This enchanting collection of 21 tracks, released on November 21, 2005, under the Erato/Warner Classics label, blends poignant vocal performances with orchestral arrangements to create a deeply moving and historically resonant experience.
The album opens with the serene "Ave Maria," showcasing Natalie Dessay's exquisite soprano vocals, followed by the stirring "Overture" that sets the stage for the emotional journey ahead. Throughout the album, Dessay's powerful and nuanced performances bring to life the stories of soldiers and their families, as well as the fragile moments of peace and humanity that emerged amidst the chaos of war. Notable tracks include "Anna et Nikolaus," "La guerre," and "Stille Nacht," each offering a unique perspective on the events unfolding during the Christmas truce.
"Merry Christmas" is not just a soundtrack but a testament to the power of music to convey the complexities of human emotion and the enduring hope for peace. Natalie Dessay's extraordinary talent shines through in every track, making this album a timeless tribute to the spirit of Christmas and the resilience of the human heart. With a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a must-listen for fans of opera and historical dramas alike.
Tracks
Ave MariaPhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra, Natalie Dessay
OverturePhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Hymne des fraternisés (piano)Philippe Rombi
Anna et NikolausPhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
La guerrePhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Enterrement des soldatsBruno le Rouzic, Philippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Bist du bei mirRolando Villazón, Philippe Rombi, Orchestre Symphonique Bel Arte, Natalie Dessay
Stille NachtRolando Villazón, Philippe Rombi, Orchestre Symphonique Bel Arte
La lettre de JonathanPhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Les souvenirs de PonchelPhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Le match de footballPhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra, Edouard Dubois
Le discours de l'évêquePhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Le courrier des soldatsPhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra, Carmine Lauri
War adagioPhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Thème de l'absencePhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra, Carmine Lauri
Hymne des Fraternisés: I'm dreaming of homePhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra, Natalie Dessay, Chorale Scala
Adeste fidelisRolando Villazón, Philippe Rombi, Orchestre Symphonique Bel Arte
Invitations: I'm dreaming of homePhilippe Rombi, Ivan McDonald, London Symphony Orchestra, Griogair Lawrie, David Bruce, Calum Anthony Beaton
Anna et Nikolaus (film version including Nuit de Noël)Philippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Aria pour violon et orchestrePhilippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra
Hymne des fraternisés (murmures et vocalises)Philippe Rombi, London Symphony Orchestra, Carmine Lauri, Chorale Scala
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