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The musical circles of Paris are astounded by a brilliant young talent. Plus, Donald Macleod introduces us to Carmen, Bizet’s most feted operatic creation.

Georges Bizet’s story ought to have been a very straightforward one. It was clear to everyone who met him just how brilliantly and excitingly talented he was. He was also fortunate to live and work in Paris, a city laden with musical opportunities in the mid-19th century. This week, Donald Macleod shows how Bizet’s life proved more challenging and event-filled than anyone might have expected – and that success can never be guaranteed!

Throughout the week, Donald also guides us through Bizet’s most celebrated work, Carmen – an opera famous for its Spanish heat, fractured passions and fabulous tunes.

Today, we see how Bizet’s talent quickly transported him from middle-class obscurity into Paris’s most elevated musical circles. Plus, in our first encounter with Carmen, we’re introduced to the title character: a fiery gypsy girl who bewitches all around her, yet who declares she cares nothing for love.

Carmen (extracts from Act 1)
Angela Gheorghiu, soprano (Carmen)
Roberto Alagna, tenor (Don José)
Nicolas Cavallier, bass-baritone (Zuniga)
Ludovic Tézier, baritone (Moralès)
La Lauzeta, Choeur d'enfants de Toulouse
Choeur 'Les Éléments'
Orchestre National du Capitole de Toulouse, conducted by Michel Plasson

Symphony in C, II. Andante & III. Scherzo
Orchestre de Paris, conducted by Semyon Bychkov

Le Docteur Miracle: Overture
Orchestre Lyrique de Region Avignon Provence, Samuel Jean