Carmen' is one of the most popular and most frequently performed operas across the globe. Its world premiere was a flop which the composer Bizet did not live to see. Nevertheless, the opera very quickly gained acceptance at all major theatres, bringing in its wake countless arrangements of some particularly beautiful music numbers.It was, in all probability, Bizet's close friend and fellow student Ernest Guiraud who brought 12 numbers of the opera together to form two orchestral suites. After the first Carmen Suite which unites the most beautiful instrumental settings, the second suite with arrangements of the best-known vocal pieces is now available as well. The musical text is based on our new scientific edition of the opera edited by Robert Didion. / Orchestre

Par SARASATE PABLO DE. George Bernard Shaw once remarked that although there are many composers of music for the Violin, there are only a few composers of Violin music. But where Pablo de Sarasate (1844-1908) is concerned, Shaw declared that the Spanish musician's talents as both a performer and composer 'left criticism gasping miles behind him. ' Famous for his fiery, forceful, and passionate playing, Sarasate was equally renowned for the sweetness and purity of his tone and his impeccable technique. As a composer steeped in the colorful music of his native land, he was well known for his many Violin works inspired by Spanish airs and dances, written to display the instrument'scapabilitie. Carmen Fantasy, Op. 25, is Sarasate 's much-loved Violin fantasy based on Bizet's Carmen. It includes excerpts of different movements from the Carmen suite, including the familiar Habanera and opening movement. Sarasate 's popular arrangement and variations on the opera's themes are staples of the Violin repertoire. This full-score version stands as the most affordable available, and it offers both performers and listeners extra insights into a celebrated work. Reprint of an early authoritative edition./ Répertoire / Orchestre