»It is hard to put into words just how extraordinary the chemistry between this orchestra and me is – in fact, it is more like alchemy!« says Alain Altinoglu of »his« hr-Sinfonieorchester. Fittingly, the orchestra has chosen a work infused with magic and the supernatural for its next visit to the Elbphilharmonie. Inspired by Goethe’s drama, Berlioz’s »La damnation de Faust« is a treasure trove of musical variety – poised between opera and concert work, choral symphony and oratorio, and rich in nuances and extremes ranging from infernal depths to heavenly redemption.
Hector Berlioz was searching for a form that could unite symphony and opera into something even greater. The resulting four-part work for orchestra, chorus and soloists – here performed by internationally acclaimed opera singers – tells the story of an ageing Faust who strikes a pact with the devil in exchange for youth and love. Berlioz described the piece as a »dramatic legend«.
Berlioz’s music is remarkably vivid. Without the need for costumes or scenery, he brings dancing mythical creatures to life, has Faust yearn for his beloved Marguerite and, in the end, sends him hurtling towards damnation in a breathtaking ride to hell.
PERFORMERS
hr-Sinfonieorchester Frankfurt orchestra
Singverein der Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde in Wien choir
Angela Brower mezzo-soprano
Charles Castronovo tenor
John Relyea bass baritone
Adrien Fournaison bass
Alain Altinoglu conductor
PROGRAM
Hector Berlioz
La damnation de Faust
Performance in French with German surtitles
