Performers: Ben Heppner (tenor) – Enée
Michelle DeYoung (mezzo-soprano) – Dido
Petra Lang (mezzo-soprano) – Cassandre
Sara Mingardo (alto) – Anna
Peter Mattei (baritone) – Chorèbe
Stephen Milling (bass) – Narbal
Kenneth Tarver (tenor) – Lopas
London Symphony Chorus
London Symphony Orchestra,
Conducted by Sir Colin Davis
Recording Date: 3, 7, 8 & 9 December 2000, Barbican Centre, London
Label: LSO Live LSO 0010 CD
Format: 4 CDs [62.23, 68.57, 56.25, 51.51], Super Budget Price
Born out of Sir Colin Davis’ long-term association and commitment to the works of Hector Berlioz, this recording of “Les Troyens” witnesses the conductor’s mastery and unparalleled interpretative prowess in guiding the renowned London Symphony Orchestra. Davis’ interpretation manifests a balance between overt drama and the intricacies of Berlioz’s orchestration, resulting in a layered, nuanced outcome.
Ben Heppner’s Enée is a role to be lauded. His commanding tenor provides the strength required of the part, illuminating Enée’s torment and heroism throughout his tragic journey. The portrayal he creates is both vulnerable and steadfast, maintaining the listener’s empathy and interest.
Michelle DeYoung as Dido is nothing short of outstanding. Her rich mezzo-soprano voice lends itself to the contrasting emotions Dido experiences; from her guarded relief in the initial stages to her ultimate abandonment and despair. Her dramatic conviction and the emotional depth of her performance leave a lasting impression.
Petra Lang’s Cassandre presents a moving, hauntingly prophetic character, while Sara Mingardo provides ample support as Anna. The baritone and bass roles, Peter Mattei’s Chorèbe, and Stephen Milling’s Narbal, are performed with eminence and authority.
Kenneth Tarver as Lopas possesses a tenor that sparkles with buoyancy and vitality, adding depth to the ensemble. The London Symphony Chorus delivers a synchronized and emotive performance in harmony with the soloists, while the London Symphony Orchestra’s performance is nothing short of compendious, enveloped in Davis’s consummate interpretation.
The sonic quality of the production is worthy of note, with a distinguished balance between performers and orchestra. The recording captures the atmosphere of the live performances at the Barbican Centre, hence giving a taste of the staging and the dramatic energy that would have been experienced by the audience.
Overall, this interpretation of Berlioz’s grand epic opera ‘Les Troyens’ stands out as a recording of essential experience. Its exceptional characterisation and orchestral richness set it as a benchmark for the future Berlioz interpretations. While the compact discs come at a super budget price, their value for any avid listener or collector is unquestionable.
