Berlioz: The Damnation of Faust

24 FLAC Discount

Half grand opera, half roof-raising choral- orchestral spectacular, Berlioz’s ‘The Damnation of Faust’ caused a scandal in 1846 when it was first performed, and with its supernatural story and thumping good melodies, it’s still one of 19th century music’s most rivetingly sinful treats.

Recorded live at the Southbank Centre on 4 February 2023, Edward Gardner took on the monumental task of conducting the full orchestra, three massed choruses and a charismatic all-star cast.

This special two-CD set captures the live thrill of the highly reviewed concert for the crisp, hi-fi enjoyment of the opera and classical music fans at home.

“Gardner’s interpretation gained weight and momentum ... by turns broodingly introspective, beguilingly sensuous and eerily malign, with sinister brass and woodwind flickering like demonic fire.” - The Guardian

“If I have to go to hell, I’ve decided, I want the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Edward Gardner to come with me.” - The Times

“With his choral and operatic roots, Gardner has a special flair for taming such genre-crossing, massed-choir monsters.” - The Arts Desk

Half grand opera, half roof-raising choral- orchestral spectacular, Berlioz’s ‘The Damnation of Faust’ caused a scandal in 1846 when it was first performed, and with its supernatural story and thumping good melodies, it’s still one of 19th century music’s most rivetingly sinful treats.

Recorded live at the Southbank Centre on 4 February 2023, Edward Gardner took on the monumental task of conducting the full orchestra, three massed choruses and a charismatic all-star cast.

This special two-CD set captures the live thrill of the highly reviewed concert for the crisp, hi-fi enjoyment of the opera and classical music fans at home.