Thaïs

Composed on an eponymous and very anticlerical libretto by the novelist Anatole France, Massenet's work is characterised by a subtle mixture of sensuality and religiosity that is underlined by a dramaturgical structure built on oppositions (eroticism / sanctity, seduction / renunciation) embodied by Thaïs and Athanael. Beyond the famous "meditation of Thaïs", the solo violin interlude in the middle of Act II illustrating the time of the courtesan's "conversion" to faith, it must be emphasised that the whole work is carried by a symphonic writing style here at its peak. Massenet composed Thaïs for the Californian singer Sybil Sanderson, a stratospheric voice with three octaves and the musician's muse. Tonight, the Albanian Ermonela Jaho will play this key role in the repertoire, a role in which she has already demonstrated the full range of her talent. At her side will be the baritone Ludovic Tézier, who is also well versed in all the nuances of his character.

COPRODUCTION Les Grandes Voix / Théâtre des Champs-Elysées
France Musique records this concert.