Search - Saint-Saens, Rouillon, Guingal :: Henry VIII

The other Saint-Saens opera...

Brett Farrell | Cape May, NJ USA | 04/24/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Saint-Saens other opera is not really a fair name since he did write many opera's but out of them all only 'Samson et Dalila' and 'Henry VIII' held any sway during Saint-Saens time and now only Samson does. Henry VIII is almost completely forgotten. The ballet music can still be found but this is the only complete recording of this masterpiece and this CD can rarely be found. More often it takes intense bidding in auction to obtain. But should you come across a means of possesing it (legally) I must recommend that you do. The music is some of the best. It dosen't start as thunderous as Samson or ever get as erotic or exotic but yet I prefer Henry VIII to Samson. It's just more pleasing.

Saint-Saens actually went to the royal library in Great Brittain to find examples of original music from Henry's time to give the music a more authentic sound. The results of his research and his natural talent for melody and composing is one of the most pleasing and beautiful opera's that you may never hear.

The preformance is spectacular and the sound rich and of the highest quality. In fact it takes several listenings to realize that it's a live recording. One day I suddenly heard applause and it dawned on me.

Do not miss out on this opera if you can find it. It's another precious gem for any opera collection and sadly just as rare..."