Mélodies (Selected)

Gabriel Fauré

Gérard Souzay, Jacqueline Bonneau

early 1950s Mono recording.

Top choice. A classic disc and perhaps the best single introduction to French chanson. Souzay sings with 'brooding passion,' elegant phrasing, and beautiful tone. The mono sound has a nice glow.

Gérard Souzay, Dalton Baldwin

1960s

A more comprehensive Phillips set with Souzay still in fabulous voice and in clearer sound. Includes 'La Bonne Chanson' sung very passionately. A great set for delving deeper into chanson.

Gérard Souzay, Elly Ameling

1970s

A more comprehensive Fauré set. While Souzay is not in quite as good voice, it includes the wonderful Elly Ameling singing sets for the female voice (like 'La Chanson d'Eve') with beautiful tone, control, and nuance.

Pierre Bernac

1930s-1950s Mono recordings.

From Souzay's mentor, a consummate chanson singer. Bernac is very soulful with a deep, rich tone and beautiful fluidity in connecting the words.

Maggie Teyte

1940s Mono recordings.

A priceless set from the British specialist in French chanson. She brings a deep immersion in the style with a bell-like soprano that floats dreamily.

Charles Panzéra, Magdeleine Panzéra-Baillot

1930s Mono recordings (Dutton transfers).

Essential for French chanson. Panzéra knew Fauré (who dedicated 'L'horizon chimérique' to him) and was a soulful singer with a beautiful, warm, lyrical sound. His 'Clair de Lune' is beautifully tender.