The Interpretation of French Song

by Pierre Bernac

"No voice teacher, no coach, no accompanist, no singer, and for that matter, no music-lover should be without this publication . . . from a man whose knowledge of this repertoire is so complete and profound as to make his treatment of it definitive and without equal." ― Notes This is the standard work on its subject, and its author the outstanding authority. Pierre Bernac had a long and distinguished career as a singer, specializing in the French song (or mélodie) repertoire. For many years he was incomparable partnered by Francis Poulenc, one of the composers discussed in this book. M. Bernac later taught and gave master classes in Europe and the United States. He died in 1979.

Among eighteen composers whose vocal works are covered in the book are Berlioz, Gounod, Duparc, Chausson, Fauré, Debussy, Satie, Ravel―as well as Poulenc and others. The greater part of each composer's output in the genre is discussed: texts of nearly 200 songs are given in French, with line-for-line verse translations by Winifred Radford, notes on pronunciation, and simple but detailed suggestion for performance and interpretation. Preceding these sections on the songs themselves are three most important chapters on performance and interpretation in vocal music, on singing in French, and on the particular problems involved in the interpretation of French mélodies .

This is the book every serious singer needs―and, more and more, singers are "discovering" French song. It is also an invaluable guide for the concert-goer and record collector.

Genres: Music, France, Reference

352 pages, Paperback

Published February 17, 1978

Reviews

[Loesje · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reference work for solo singers in French Art Song / Melodies Française, with general guidelines for the pronunciation of French and specific performance guidelines of some of the most well-known sings. Practical in use during song study. I wish only there was a second volume and a similar edition for German Art Song..

[Katheryn Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great resource! Currently using it as I prepare my first masters’ voice recital.

[Felicity · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a useful book which has translations of the well known Chansons but also gives you background and performance directions.

[TediyraBH]

0393008789

MT892.B4