French Contralto Jeanne Gerville-Réache ~ D'une Prison (1911)

[runupahill1]

Thank you, Doug. She only took a few minutes to grow on me.

[Kievest]

JGR was one of a kind! She speaks to

the most far flung interior of the soul

in a way that is at once beautiful, primal,

and deeply intimate! Like all truly great

singers, she finds a connection in the

material she performs and establishes

that link with the listener! Thank you,

Doug, for the privilege and honor of

experiencing JGR's exalted art and

humanity! Superb photos!

[meltzerboy]

This is quite different from Tino Rossi's more popular-style version that you posted a couple of months ago; Gerville-Reache is a more intense artist, almost too much so here. Melba's recording of Hahn's melodie strikes a happy medium. But I admire all three. Thanks!

[CurzonRoad]

Hi Nate: Interesting.... at first I just couldn't cotton to this version, but her voice & artistry slowly, surely grew on me, and Gerville-Reache is now a rock-solid favorite. Thank you!

[AulicExclusiva]

Like the Butt, she bangs out her chest notes no matter what: hardly appropriate here, where she also has to reach for some of those big Wagnerian high notes.

The last phrase, sung softly, is magical, and gives a hint of what might have been.

[fairlytaleofnewyork]

She had a very warm voice and this voice somehow makes me feel quite melancholic, as it I have known her for long time...

Doug, thank you very much for wonderful post again!

Best regards

Satoko

[Bivolari]

Beautifully sung. A performance to treasure.

[CurzonRoad]

Hi Stephen: Agreed! While her voice and style may not be to everyone's liking, I've found her discs tend to g-r-o-w on you. As always, many thanks! Doug --