A selection of melodies for voice and piano | Une sélection de mélodies pour voix et piano

ATMA Classique is delighted to present a curated selection of mélodies for voice and piano by Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924), from ATMA Classique's "illuminating and gorgeous" Complete Mélodies recording released in May. (The Wholenote) This recording marks the first time the songs will be heard in their original keys and voice types, according to the composer's indications for their first performances. Faure's mélodies are performed by four Canadian singers who bring distinct vocal qualities to their interpretations: Hélène Guilmette, soprano; Julie Boulianne, mezzo-soprano; Antonio Figueroa, tenor; and Marc Boucher, baritone. Pianist Olivier Godin accompanies the singers on an 1859 Erard piano tuned to 435 Hz, the pitch standard established in France by ministerial decree in 1859. The piano belongs to the Arte Musica Foundation at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and is known for its exceptional workmanship and unique sound. Fauré's mélodies were recorded between October 2015 and September 2017 in Bourgie Hall at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts. The original recording was produced in association with Classica Festival, under the artistic direction of Marc Boucher.