Deserving of being restored to the repertoire, this recording of Hélène under the direction of the young French conductor Guillaume Tourniaire is particularly convincing as is its complement Nuit Persane. Rosamund Illing sings the title role with a dramatic quality well suited to the role. The Tenor Steve Davislim, sings Pâris with seduction and tenderness.
This recording offers as well the rarely performed Nuit Persane, an orchestral cycle for voices and chorus. Maestro Tourniaire creates dreamlike atmospheres; delicate and powerful... and achieves an excellent balance between soloists and orchestra. Steve Davislim, whose French pronunciation is excellent, dominates the cast.