Classical Source, September 23, 2017

Jonas Kaufmann soars into the Official UK Classical Album Chart at Number One!

The world’s greatest tenor, Jonas Kaufmann, has soared into the Official UK Classical Album Chart at the coveted Number One position with his brand-new album of French opera arias, L’Opéra, released on Sony Classical. This eagerly-anticipated chart-topping album sees the acclaimed German opera star perform a selection of romantic French opera arias that are very close to his heart in a dazzling album that showcases the Bavarian State Orchestra under conductor Bertrand de Billy together with fellow featured soloists, soprano Sonya Yoncheva and baritone Ludovic Tézier. L’Opéra celebrates both the elegance of French opera society and the musical masterpieces that made 19th century Paris the opera capital of the world. Featured works include the famous Pearl Fishers' Duet by Bizet and his Flower Song from 'Carmen' as well as Gounod's 'Romeo et Juliette' and Massenet's 'Manon'. Kaufmann, who has a central role in the BBC's forthcoming opera season, notes the personal connection to his acclaimed new recording and this chosen repertoire in which he feels very much at home: “This fascinating music reflects a unique period in European culture. I didn’t want to choose only highlights for this album but also works and roles that have been key experiences for me." L’Opéra follows Mr Kaufmann's stunningly successful album 'Nessun Dorma' of famous opera arias by Puccini.