Olivier Messiaen: Saint Francis of Assisi - Act II

Informatie

Saint Francois D'Assise is an opera in 3 acts by Olivier Messiaen. This volume is part of the edition that includes the books with the full Orchestra scores, as well as the explanations, analysis and comments on each tableau. It is focused on the Act II, Tableau 4. L’Ange voyageur which describes the appearance of the Traveller Angel to Saint Francis.

This tableau is introduced by each of the themes of Brothers Leon, Élie and Bernard and the theme of Philemon, the bird. It opens as the Brothers are confronted to the Angel but don’t recognise him straight away except for Brother Bernard, who reacts wisely. The Angel then requests to talk to Father Francis, and the tableau finishes, introducing the following part: Act II, Tableau 5. L’ange musicien. Within this tableau 4, birdsong can be heard that is reminiscent of Messiaen's 'Bird Catalogue' collection.